Alexander Zatonski facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alexander Zatonski
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| Born | 1 November 1915 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
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| Died | 6 December 1941 (aged 26) (MIA) disappeared over Cyrenaica, Italian Libya
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
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Branch
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 Royal Air Force |
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Rank
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Flying Officer |
| Unit | No. 79 Squadron RAF |
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Conflicts
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World War II
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Flying Officer Alexander Roman Zatonski was a brave American pilot. He was born on November 1, 1915. He flew for the British Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. He was one of only 11 American pilots who fought in the famous Battle of Britain. Sadly, he went missing in North Africa on December 6, 1941.
Contents
Early Life and Joining the RAF
Alexander Zatonski was born in Philadelphia, USA, in 1915. His parents had recently moved from Poland. In 1926, his family moved to Brantford, Ontario, Canada.
Just before World War II started, Alexander was in Britain. He wanted to join the Polish Air Force. Instead, he joined the British Royal Air Force (RAF) in September 1939.
Fighting in World War II
After his training, Alexander joined No. 79 Squadron of the RAF in July 1940. He became a Pilot Officer.
Battle of Britain Hero
Alexander started flying combat missions in August 1940. He helped defend England from German air attacks. On August 28, 1940, his Hawker Hurricane plane was shot down. This happened over Hythe, England. He had to parachute into the English Channel. He was badly burned and hurt his leg.
He spent time recovering in the hospital. While he was getting better, he married Mary Bunce. Alexander returned to his squadron in December 1940. He continued to fly missions throughout 1941.
North Africa Missions
In October 1941, Alexander was sent to No. 238 Squadron in North Africa. This area was also a major battleground during the war.
Disappearance
On December 6, 1941, Alexander went on his second flight in North Africa. He was fighting against German Messerschmitt Bf 109 planes. He did not return from this mission. No one ever found his plane or his body. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial in Egypt.
See also
- Eagle Squadron
- List of people who disappeared
- List of Battle of Britain pilots
- Non-British personnel in the RAF during the Battle of Britain
