Operation Leg: When the RAF airdropped a prosthetic leg into a German POW castle

Douglas Bader, a Battle of Britain pilot, overcame the loss of his legs to become a remarkable flyer and persistent escapee once captured by the Germans. Known for his advocacy of the controversial ‘Big Wing’ formation, he led successful missions during the war. Bader’s luck ran out in 1941 when his plane was damaged, leading to a debate on the cause of the crash. Despite being trapped by his prosthetic, he miraculously survived and continued to make multiple escape attempts from different prisons. After the war, Bader became a disabled advocate and continued flying until his death in 1982, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and resilience.

https://www.rafbf.org/news-and-stories/raf-history/operation-leg-pilot-unlike-any-other

To top