Polish WWII bravery honoured in new exhibition

An exhibition commemorating a Polish squadron's contribution to the South West in World War Two is being held in Exeter.

The 307 Squadron Project is hosting an event called Night Fighters at the city's Guildhall on Thursday and Friday to pay tribute to the 307 Squadron from the Polish Air Force, who were based at RAF Exeter - now Exeter Airport.

During the conflict, airmen from the squadron helped defend the South West including shooting down four German bombers during an overnight raid in the city on 3 and 4 May 1942.

Michael Parrott, a member of the 307 Squadron Project, said it was important for the bravery of the Polish airmen to be remembered.

The exhibition, which is open from 10:00 to 16:00 GMT on both days, will include information about what Polish forces did during D-Day as part of 80th anniversary commemorations for the Normandy landings.

During the May 1942 raid on Exeter, 40 German Junker-88 planes flew over the city and dropped bombs over one hour and 15 minutes, killing 156 people and causing substantial damage.

Four Beaufighters aircraft from the 307 Squadron responded and fought against the German bombers, shooting down four of them.

Mr Parrott said the squadron helped save many lives in Exeter.

"Although there was a lot of devastation in the city, if you imagine another four plane load of bombs falling on the city, the devastation would have been greater," he said.

On Friday, the Polish flag will be raised during a ceremony in Exeter as part of commemoration events for the squadron.

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