The New England Air Museum is honored to premier a new exhibit featuring the Polish Kosciusko Squadron 303 pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain and arguably changed history. Winston Churchill called it “one of the decisive battles of the war” and, according to many historians, the Battle of Britain would have been lost if not for the Polish airmen.
The new exhibit features an interactive kiosk detailing the squadron’s extraordinary bravery and flying skills, highlights of its sorties, the aircraft it flew and personal histories. The exhibit tells the story of how these airmen devised strategies for air combat never seen before, enabling the outnumbered squadron to beat the odds.
The museum worked with Central Connecticut State University scholars in creating the exhibit. The squadron originally was established in 1919 during the Polish-Soviet War. It was named to honor Tadeusz Kosciuszko who helped the American colonies during the Revolutionary War.
“The NEAM and CCSU exhibit partnership brings to life the incredible and relatively unknown story of these defenders of freedom,” said Waldemar Kostrzewa, chair of the CCSU Polish Studies Advisory Board.
To accompany the celebration of Polish Independence Day on Nov. 11, a dedication ceremony will take place at the museum that evening with keynote speakers including Consul General of the Republic of Poland Adrian Kubicki, Connecticut State Representative Tami Zawistowski, CCSU President Dr. Zulma Toro, and CCSU Endowed Chair in Polish Studies Dr. M.B.B. Biskupski. The evening will begin with mezzo-soprano Dr. Monika Krajewska performing both the United States and Republic of Poland national anthems. The Kosciuszko exhibit will open to the public on Nov. 12.
For hours, directions and admission fees please visit neam.org or call 860-623-3305.