It was announced in late August 2024 that the Duxford Cambridge-based ‘Suffolk Spitfire’ — George Haye's LF.XVIe RW382 — has joined the Polish Heritage Flight (PHF).

The fighter has undergone a stunning transformation into the colours of a 302 ‘City of Poznan’ Squadron machine in tribute to “international cooperation and unity”. Its new scheme honours the aircraft flown by Polish-American pilot Flt Sgt Michael J Murayda on D-Day – LF.IX MK924/WX-A Freda C.

Described by PHF as “a compelling example of dedication and bravery”, Murayda was born in Ohio to Polish parents and volunteered for the RAF via Canada. Just 17 at the time, he lied about his age to enlist. After serving with 302 Squadron from 1942, he later transferred to the USAAF and flew P-47 Thunderbolts with the 56th Fighter Group’s 61st Fighter Squadron – highlighting the diverse contribution of Allied forces in the war effort.

The work to transform the aircraft took just 36 hours and was carried out at Duxford by a team led by Pete Medley of Flying Colours Contracts Ltd, with support from Audley End’s Vintage Fabrics, Sam Forbes from Marshall ADG and Wisdom Art Prints. The PHF, which also operates Hawker Hurricane XII G-HURI (also in 302 Squadron livery) aims to preserve the memory of those courageous pilots and crews, and to salute the overall contribution of the Polish to Allied victory.