Among them was Phillip Anthony Leckrone, from Salem, Illinois. He had learned to fly while still at High School, and owned an aircraft, but had no military flying experience before he came to Britain and joined the RAFVR. In the RAF he was known as “Uncle Sam” or “Zeke”.
Pilot Officer Leckrone joined No 616 Squadron on 2 September and was posted to No 71 Squadron at Church Fenton on 12 October 1940, to join other American volunteers in the first Eagle Squadron. On 28 October Leckrone overturned a Brewster Buffalo when landing at Church Fenton. He was admitted to hospital with slight concussion. The squadron did not become operational in time to take part in the Battle of Britain.
On 5 January 1941, Leckrone was killed during a formation practice, when he collided with Pilot Officer E E Orbison. He was 71’s first fatality.
Leckrone is buried in Kirton-in-Lindsey Burial Ground. Salem-Leckrone Airport, which serves his home city, is named in his honour.
