Exeter remembers Polish 307 Squadron who helped defend city

Published: 12 November 2021

The Polish flag will be flown above Exeter’s historic Guildhall on Monday in honour of the part the Polish 307 Squadron played in defending the city during World War Two.

Members of the public will be able to enjoy a free exhibition at the Guildhall on Monday (15 November) between 10am and 4pm.

‘For Your Freedom & Ours’ remembers 307 Squadron who were based at Exeter Airport during the War. The exhibition will be in both Polish and English.

307 Squadron defended the South West during the conflict and helped prevent Exeter from being totally destroyed during the blitz on the city in 1942.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Polish squadron arriving in Exeter.

The exhibition includes:

• The story of the Polish 307 Squadron.
• The History of Exeter Airport where 307 Squadron were based from 1941-1943.

To mark the occasion the Polish flag will be raised over the Guildhall at 10am on Monday by the past Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Peter Holland. The Defence Attaché and Vice Consul from the Polish Embassy in London will be attending.

At 2pm there will be a wreath laying ceremony at the 307 Squadron memorial in Exeter Cathedral.

For Your Freedom & Ours has been organised by 307 Squadron Project, with support from Exeter City Council and The Polish Embassy.

307 Squadron Project is a British-Polish registered charity established to promote the role and carry out further research on the squadron that were known as the ‘Lwow Eagle Owls’.

The project also promotes cooperation between the two nations.