Mission: Channel Patrol Interception.

Date: 17th May 1941.

Unit: 71 Squadron R.A.F. “Eagle Squadron” (U.S.A.)

Type: Hurricane II.

Serial No. Z3186.

Coded: XR-

Location: English Channel.

Pilot: Pilot Officer ‘Mike’ Kolendorski R.A.F.V.R.

REASON FOR LOSS:

Californian Pole Pilot Officer ‘Mike’ Kolendorski was the first American Volunteer ‘Eagle’ killed in action. He was shot down off Clacton, 1810 hrs. 17th May 194l, by Bf 1O9Es from JG 53 after breaking away from his formation during 71 Squadron’s first Channel patrol. First reported missing on this date his body was later washed ashore in the Netherlands.

Research and page construction David King.
Acknowledgements - Aircrew remembrance Society archives, Fighter Command losses Norman Franks, C.W.G.C. and Find a Grave.