Polish Air Force Operations Record Books 1940-1947

1940-08-29

Bramcote

No. 305 (Polish) Squadron was formed at Bramcote, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, (Map Reference O.S. Sheet 73. 1’’ to mile. 865778) on the 29th August 1940, under establishments BC119 for Polish personnel, with an ancillary establishment of British personnel under Air Ministry establishment BC119.
The establishment of aircraft is 16 I E. Battle aircraft.
The majority of Polish personnel of this Squadron are “French: Poles. i. e. those who have served with the French Forces prior to the capitulation of that country. In order to assist with training by English methods, a number of “British” Poles. i. e. those trained at Hucknall, are included in the strength.
The following British Officers personnel have been posted to the Squadron:-
Squadron Leader F.W. Dixon-Wright. (for duty as Wing Commander (flying) with Nos. 304 and 305 Squadrons)
Squadron Leader J.K.M. Drysdale. D.S.O. – Squadron Commander.
F/O. A/Fl/Lt. S.E. Kellaway. – Adjutant. (also Adjutant to Wing Commander (Flying)
Pilot Officer W.D. Melluish. – Adjutant. (supernumerary)
Pilot Officer R.A.V. Dismore. – Engineer Officer.
Pilot Officer H.A.P. Watkins. – Engineer Officer (supervising Engineer Officer to Wing Commander (Flying) for duty with No. 304 and No. 305 Squadrons.
A/Fl/Lt. T. Preston. – F/Lieutenant (Flying)
A/Fl/Lt. J.P. Ridge. – Flying Instructor. (attached)

The following is the position of the Polish Officer personnel:-

Wing Commander. J. Jankowski. Officer Commanding.
Flight Lieutenant. C. Korbut O.C. “A” Flight.
Flight Lieutenant. S. Scibor. O.C. “B” Flight.
Flying Officer. S. Wesolowski Engineer Officer.
Flying Officer. A. Steininger. Adjutant

In addition to the above there are 3 Officer Pilots, 11 Observer Officers, 8 Airmen Pilots and 9 Air Gunners.
There are also 58 aircrew personnel at Benson, earmarked for positing to the Squadron when they have completed training.
The strength of personnel as at. 1.9.1940 was:-
British. Officers. 3. Airman. 27. Polish. Officers. 17. Airman. 155.
The strength of personnel as at 30.9.1940 was:-
British. Officers. 8. Airman. 35. Polish. Officers. 20. Airman. 174.