*WW2, Framed Commemorative Spitfire Photo Signed by American Eagle Squadron – 71st Squadron, 121st Squadron & 133rd Squadron*
Frame measures: 59.7cm x 46.9cm
Map: 55.2cm x 40.3cm
Yanks in the RAF 1940-42
American Eagle Squadron
Midlands and Wales Map
Signed by most o the American Eagle Squadron this is a superb piece of history.
The iconic Supermarine Spitfire is a British fighter aircraft that played a crucial role during World War II. This spitfire was flown by pilots of the American Eagle Squadron or 71, 121 or 133 Squadron. This squadron was comprised of American volunteer pilots serving with the Royal Air Force in WW2. The photo is signed by many of each of the three squadrons and is placed in front of a map of the midlands and features the RAF and Eagle Squadron badges as well as the individual badges for the 71, 121 and 133.
The Eagle Squadrons were three RAF fighter units made up of volunteer American pilots who joined the Royal Air Force before the United States entered World War II in December 1941. Out of thousands of volunteers, only 244 Americans served in these squadrons, alongside 16 Britons who acted as squadron and flight commanders. These units, RAF Numbers 71, 121, and 133 Squadrons, flew Hawker Hurricanes and Supermarine Spitfires in combat over Europe from February 5, 1941, until September 29, 1942, when they were transferred to the U.S. Army Air Forces (AAF). Although the American pilots wore RAF uniforms and ranks, they retained their U.S. citizenship and added a distinctive “Eagle Squadron” patch featuring a bald eagle and the letters “ES.”
The Spitfire pictured, Supermarine Spitfire MH434, was built in 1943 at Vickers, Castle Bromwich. It is likely that this American Eagle memorial was assembled after the Eagle Squadrons transitioned to the AAF.
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