Career
He joined the military for, and ended up a Sopwith Camel pilot in the Royal Flying Corps. By late 1917, Dawes was posted to 45 Squadron on the Western Front as a pilot. He scored his first aerial victory on the Western Front before 45 Squadron was transferred to Italy.
He became an ace with the squadron.
Then, at about the time the Royal Flying Corps was being consolidated into the Royal Air Force, Dawes was transferred for a short spell to 28 Squadron, which was also in Italy. He scored a victory with them before transferring back to 45 Squadron.
He wrapped up his tally with a final three wins with the unit in June 1918. "During recent operations this officer has destroyed six enemy aeroplanes.
A very gallant and courageous officer".