A fascinating talk on the contribution made by Polish aircrew in the Battle of Britain was enjoyed by an appreciative audience in The Wing on Sunday afternoon.
The latest of the series of Sunday afternoon talks organised by Trustee Andy Simpson saw a fascinating presentation by Richard Kornicki CBE DL, who highlighted the bravery and courage of the Poles who took on the Luftwaffe as part of the Allied response to the threat of invasion.
Having already seen their homeland invaded and gained operational experience in the Battle for France, the Polish aircrew proved to be formidable opposition for the Luftwaffe and numbered amongst the top scoring pilots.
Richard is the son of the late Gen. Bryg. Franciszek Kornicki, who was the last surviving Polish Squadron commander when he died aged 100 in 2017. He flew in the defence of Poland in 1939, then in France and finally in Britain, where he commanded 317 (City of Wilno) Squadron.
As Chairman of the Polish Air Force Memorial Committee, Richard works closely with senior members of the RAF and the Polish Air Force to maintain the memory of the Polish Air Force and its achievements during the second world war.
He has also forwarded this link to a film made by the Polish War Memorial Committee to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle in 2020.
