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Alexander Zatonski
Born (1915-11-01)1 November 1915
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died 6 December 1941(1941-12-06) (aged 26)  (MIA)
disappeared over Cyrenaica, Italian Libya
Buried
Unknown
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch  Royal Air Force
Years of service 1939–1941
Rank Flying Officer
Service number 43052
Unit No. 79 Squadron RAF
Battles/wars World War II

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.

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.

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