Click to enlarge image

While the role of foreign squadrons in the RAF Fighter Command is well known, the participation of individuals which volunteered from all over the World is arguably far less documented. Some Spitfire pilots in the RAF came from the least expected places. Here, F/O Arthur O. Weeks, from Barbados, and F/Sgt Collins A. Joseph of Trinidad pose for a publicity photograph in front of the Spitfire Mk. Vb. Both were serving as pilots with No. 132 (City of Bombay) Squadron RAF during 1943. The location is probably Gravesend or Eastchurch.

Unfortunately, the fate of both pilots could not be established, so any aditional information from the readers is welcome.

Note also that the wartime censor has scratched out the individual emblem carried by the Spitfire.
[Crown Copyright]