Eagle Squadrons Memorial, War memorial in Grosvenor Square, City of Westminster, United Kingdom
The Eagle Squadrons Memorial is a war monument in Grosvenor Square featuring a bronze eagle sculpture positioned atop a white Portland stone obelisk. The sides of the column display carved inscriptions listing the names of the pilots who served in these units.
The memorial commemorates American and British pilots who served in three Royal Air Force squadrons from 1940 to 1942. These units played a significant role in air combat operations during the Second World War before their integration into standard RAF formations.
The memorial presents Elisabeth Frink's artistic vision of an American eagle with a painted white head, symbolizing the bond between the pilots and their homeland. The different squadron insignias carved into the stone sides help visitors understand the distinct units that served together.
The memorial stands in a central location within Grosvenor Square and is straightforward to access. Visitors should allow time to read the inscriptions carved into each side, as these contain the names of individual pilots.
The memorial lists the names of 71 pilots who died during service, illustrating the heavy cost of these aerial campaigns. Each face of the obelisk displays a different squadron's crest and motto, highlighting the identity of each fighting unit.
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