Pilot in Pole position

The heroic contribution to the defence of this island made by pilots from other nations during the Second World War is rightly celebrated. They came here from across the continent to carry the fight to the Nazis, even when their own homelands had been overrun.

In their lethal mastery of the air they found a common language whose message of freedom will forever ring in our ears.

The RAF Museum is now holding a poll to nominate a single Spitfire pilot whose image will accompany the famous fighter aeroplane in its exhibition. Thousands have voted for Douglas Bader. But it is Franciszek Kornicki who is the runaway leader, having apparently become the object of a campaign among fellow Poles. Their remembrance does them – and him – proud.