the original picture, without the inscription, is here
https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail...oto/1080752246
Edwin Simmonds is hard to find but
25th September 1916 - Flying Officer Killed Near Birmingham executing loop-the-loop. | Worcestershire WW1 Centenary lists :-
Casualties
- Pte. Albert Stride30637 - 1st Bn Worcs Reg
- Albert Cull21215 - Grenadier Guards
- Albert Hooper28716 - Machine Gun Corps
- Edwin Simmons14248 - Scots Guards
but he appears to have been Private - not likely to be able to afford flying lessons I'd think
https://www.astreetnearyou.org/perso...Edwin--Simmons
SIMMONS, EDWIN
Additional information:
Son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Simmons; husband of Minnie Louise Simmons, of 6, St. James's Place, Brighton.Cemetery:
SERRE ROAD CEMETERY No.2Cemetery/memorial reference:IV. H. 19.Country:United Kingdom