McCudden

McCudden was a prominent surname in the early history of military aviation, most notably associated with James Thomas Byford McCudden, a highly decorated British flying ace of the First World War.

• James Thomas Byford McCudden (1895-1918): Arguably the most significant bearer of the surname, James McCudden was a British Royal Flying Corps (RFC) pilot and flying ace. He achieved 57 aerial victories during World War I, making him one of the highest-scoring Allied aces. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Service Order and Bar, the Military Cross and Bar, and the Military Medal. He was known for his technical proficiency and meticulous approach to aerial combat. McCudden was killed in a flying accident in July 1918.

The name "McCudden" is relatively uncommon but, due to James McCudden's fame, is readily associated with early aviation history and British heroism during World War I. While other individuals may bear the surname, the connection to the famous pilot is the dominant association.