F/Lt. Boyd was born in East Kilbride, Scotland, in 1915.

In 1935 Robert joined 602 Squadron (AuxAF), and was called up for full-time service in early 1939.
On 7th July 1940, he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88.
In August he claimed a Do 215 on 15th, a Ju 87 and a He 111 on 16th, a Ju 87 and a Bf 109 on 18th, and two Bf 109s on 25th.
In September, he claimed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 on 4th, a Bf 109 on 11th, and a Bf 109 on 26th.
On 2nd October, he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 with F/O Patrick Barthropp.
On 13th November, Robert shared in the destruction of a Ju 88; his final victory of 1940.

Robert was awarded the DFC on 24th September 1940, and was awarded a Bar to the DFC on 25th October 1940.

In December 1940, Robert was given command of 54 Squadron at Catterick.
He claimed a Bf 110 on 17th April, and in July was posted to 58 OTU at Grangemouth.
In December, he was posted to Kenley as Wing Leader.

Robert was awarded the DSO on 10th April 1942. The citation stated that he had destroyed 22 aircraft.

In June 1942, Robert was posted to the Far East, and at some time commanded 293 Wing in Burma.

He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Group Captain.

Robert passed away in April 1975.

Post-war, Robert flew charter flights for Scottish Aviation, and later tried pig-farming, and herring fishing and then moved to Skye, where he kept the Ferry Inn at Uig.