Page 52 - Demo

52Rogowski saw a formation of nine Messerschmitt 109s at 22,000 feet diving on them out of the sun. Instantly assessing the situation, he delivered a head on attack which broke and dispersed the Germans. In a fierce action over the Channel, Rogowski and Sergeant Frantisek each shot down a Messerschmitt, Pilot Officer Henneberg probably destroyed another and Pilot Officer Feric damaged a fourth. In doing so, Feric%u2019s engine was disabled, and, shutting it down, he prepared to attempt to glide back across the sea to England. Sergeant Rogowski immediately took station as his escort. Both were in turn covered by other pilots until Feric was able to effect a forced landing at Eythorne. Typically, it was a Pole that saw the enemy first; the RAF officers leading the squadron are not mentioned in the report. Typically, Rogowski had the courage, the skill and the confidence to take a calculated risk which, on this occasion, paid off handsomely. Typically, he then made the most of his advantage, shooting down a Messerschmitt himself while the others successfully engaged the enemy. And, typically, he stayed with a stricken comrade until he was sure he was safe. %u2018303%u2019s%u2019 Intelligence Officer, Flying Officer Hadwan, was suitably impressed, writing: %u2018The Polish pilots showed up very well in this action, working in intelligent combination and pressing their attack right home. Sgt Rogowski deserves special commendation for his quick and courageous attack which probably saved the Squadron from what might have been a disastrous surprise.%u201969It would be easy to characterise Jan Rogowski and his comrades as supermen, but this was far from the case. They were, however, highly trained, highly experienced and highly motivated professionals at the height of their powers. In difficult circumstances, the RAF recognised the calibre of the men serving with them and it should be congratulated for giving them their head. The Slavs in turn appreciated Sgt Josef Frantisek. The Czech who flew with the Poles.