CILP is delighted to announce its second issue for 2025 and the third stamp in the Aviators Series. This is the first stamp in the series to salute a group of aviators rather than an individual, and it commemorates the American volunteers that served and flew in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during WWII in the three famous ‘Eagle’ Squadrons.
In particular CILP honours the men of No.121 Sqn. RAF, the second squadron formed from American volunteers in May 1941 who flew from various airfields in Essex including RAF Rochford (now London-Southend Airport), around twelve miles from Canvey Island. The squadron was formed on 14 May 1941 and originally flew Hawker Hurricanes then converted to Supermarine Spitfires, shooting down their first enemy aircraft on 15 November 1941. The squadron flew offensive missions over the English Channel and operated as bomber escorts.
The design shows RAF Rochford in 1942 with staff watching a returning flight of Supermarine Spitfire MK VBs (cannon armed) of No.121 'Eagle' Sqn. Alongside the period image (photo credit: IWM D 9509), is the official badge of the 'Eagle' squadrons.
Technically it was illegal under US law for them to serve in a foreign air force at war, but the contribution made by these American volunteers was greatly appreciated. In September 1942 the squadron was transferred from the RAF to the USAAF (along with No.71 and No.133 'Eagle' Sqns RAF), No.121 Sqn becoming the 335th Fighter Squadron, 4th Fighter Group, Eighth Airforce, USAAF. The No.121 RAF 'Eagle' Squadron was officially disbanded on 29 September 1942.
A First Day Cover has been created for this issue and can be obtained along with mint stamps at Alpha Thematics on Ebid UK.
Postmaster
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