5 Forgotten Aces of the Battle of Britain

The Battle of Britain was a critical moment during World War II, where British and Allied pilots defended the skies against a large-scale German air assault. While many famous names emerged from the conflict, there were others whose contributions were significant but have not been remembered as widely. These forgotten aces played a vital role in securing victory during the summer and fall of 1940, and their stories deserve to be told.

Cyril Babbage

Cyril Babbage, a pilot in the Royal Air Force, flew with 17 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. Stationed at RAF Debden, he operated the Hawker Hurricane, a reliable fighter that made up much of Britain’s air defense at the time. Babbage’s skill in dogfights helped him secure several confirmed victories against German aircraft, despite being outnumbered in many engagements.

One of his most notable moments came during August 1940 when he intercepted a formation of Messerschmitt Bf 110s. Babbage’s attack caused confusion among the enemy bombers, forcing them to scatter. While engaging the fighters, he managed to shoot down two Bf 110s in quick succession. His courage and quick thinking not only disrupted the German formation but also protected key targets on the ground. Despite his achievements, Babbage’s name rarely appears in popular accounts of the battle, overshadowed by more well-known pilots of the era.

Józef František

Józef František was a Czech pilot who joined the RAF after fleeing his homeland following its occupation. Assigned to 303 Squadron, a unit largely made up of Polish pilots, František became one of the highest-scoring Allied aces during the Battle of Britain. Flying a Hawker Hurricane, he developed a reputation for aggressive tactics, often pursuing enemy aircraft deep into hostile territory.

František’s most remarkable achievement came during September 1940, when he downed 17 German aircraft in just over two weeks. This incredible tally made him one of the most effective pilots of the battle, even though he preferred to operate independently rather than in formation. Tragically, František’s career was cut short when he died in a crash during a routine patrol in October 1940. While his squadron received much recognition, his individual contributions are sometimes overlooked in broader narratives of the battle.

Billy Fiske

Billy Fiske was an American pilot who joined the RAF before the United States officially entered the war. One of the few Americans to fight in the Battle of Britain, Fiske served with 601 Squadron, flying Hawker Hurricanes. Known for his calm demeanor and dedication, Fiske quickly adapted to the challenging conditions of aerial combat.

In July 1940, Fiske participated in several missions intercepting German bombers. During one particularly intense engagement, his Hurricane was hit by enemy fire, but he managed to guide the damaged plane back to base. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after the landing, becoming one of the first American pilots to die in World War II. While Fiske’s contributions were limited by his short service, his willingness to fight for Britain inspired others and cemented his place in history, even if his name is not widely remembered today.

James Nicolson

James Nicolson flew with 249 Squadron during the Battle of Britain, piloting the Hawker Hurricane. While Nicolson is remembered for being the only fighter pilot awarded the Victoria Cross during the battle, his story is often overshadowed by other events of the war.

Nicolson’s moment of heroism occurred in August 1940 when his Hurricane was hit by cannon fire from a Messerschmitt Bf 110, causing his cockpit to catch fire. Despite severe burns, Nicolson continued to engage the enemy and shot down the attacking plane before bailing out. His extraordinary courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds were recognized with Britain’s highest military honor. Although Nicolson survived the Battle of Britain, his death in 1945 during a training flight has left him less celebrated than some of his contemporaries.

Denis Crowley-Milling

Denis Crowley-Milling was another skilled pilot whose name is often overlooked. Serving with 242 Squadron, under the leadership of the famous Douglas Bader, Crowley-Milling quickly established himself as a reliable and talented flyer. Flying Hurricanes, he played a key role in protecting British airfields and supply routes from German attacks.

In September 1940, Crowley-Milling was credited with multiple victories, including the destruction of a Dornier Do 17 bomber. His ability to remain calm during chaotic dogfights made him a valuable asset to his squadron. After the Battle of Britain, Crowley-Milling continued to serve in various capacities, including training new pilots. While his wartime contributions were significant, they have largely been overshadowed by Bader’s leadership and fame, leaving Crowley-Milling’s name absent from many retellings of the battle.