R.A.F. AND SOVIET PILOTS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 85, Issue 229, 29 September 1941, Page 5

R.A.F. AND SOVIET PILOTS

FIGHTING SIDE BY SIDE “RUSSIANS GRAND FELLOWS,” SAY THE BRITISH (Recd. 6.30 p.m.) Rugby, Sept. 27. The first detailed description ot the lighting side by side of British and Soviet pilots in Russia is printed in the Red Star under the sub-title, "Soviet and English Pilots Jointly Routing the Fascists.” The article describes the British and Soviet flyers studying maps in deep trenches and adds:

“British Hurricanes are the pride of British aviation." —8.0.W.

(Recd. 9 p.m.) London, Sepl. 27 “Russian pilots are stout fellows. Things have been made Very comfortable for us.” says an R.A.F. pilot in a letter to his brother.

“I have not yet flown Russian planes, but. they certainly look useful The Russian flak is very accurate. The German planes in this area are rather shy. Observer posts say the Germans often turn back when our lighters are seen. The Russian commander is most helpful and friendly. “The Russian pilots invited us to •.'.inner. We toasted everything imaginable and then, in conformity with an old Russian custom for senior officers to do a step dance, a Russian genera! and our commander made an attempt which seemed to gain genera’ approval."—U.P.A.