Special recognition for work to remember the Polish pilots who helped save Exeter

Michael Parrott has been making sure the city never forgets the Polish 307 Squadron's bravery during World War Two

Steve Race, MP for Exeter, presented the special letter to Michael Parrott
Author: Andrew KayPublished 25th Jan 2026

Work to remember the brave Polish pilots who helped save Exeter during World War Two has earnt one local historian a special letter of recognition from the Secretary of State for Defence.

Steve Race, MP for Exeter, presented the special letter to Michael Parrott to thank him for his work recording and celebrating the history of the Polish 307 Squadron.

There's more about the project here

Every year, the Polish flag is raised at Exeter’s Guildhall to commemorate their service, accompanied by an exhibition about the lives and history of the 307 Squadron and its members, carefully curated by Mr Parrott.

Steve Race, MP for Exeter, said: “It is a privilege to be able to recognise individuals who give so much time and effort to honour our Armed Forces.

“Having met Michael at several events in Exeter, including the annual raising of the Polish flag over the Guildhall, I was delighted to have the opportunity to tell the Defence Secretary about his years of work.

“I'm glad to have been able to pass on this letter as a small token of appreciation and am particularly grateful to Michael for letting me quiz him about this fascinating part of Exeter’s history.”

There's more about the 307 Squadron here

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