Commander's Oversight - Hurricane Canvas | INCLUDES: Merlin Engine Fragment

These Hurricane relics were recovered in the 1990s and originate from the aircraft of Flying Officer Billy Drake. Drake was on a combat air patrol on May 13, 1940, when his oxygen system failed, forcing him to return to base. During the flight, he spotted what he believed were unescorted Dornier Do 17 bombers, and after downing one, he was shot from behind by a Messerschmitt Bf 110. Severely wounded by shell splinters, Drake bailed out and was evacuated back to England. His participation in the Battle of France earned him several victories, including a Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Heinkel He 111, before his injuries ended his campaign. Despite these setbacks, Drake returned to combat, ultimately scoring 20 confirmed victories during World War II, winning numerous accolades, and retiring as a Group Captain. Rolls-Royce Merlin engine fragments from Hawker Hurricane This Heinkel He 111 bomber artifact was recovered in 2017 approximately 30 km south of Vinnytsia, Ukraine. Many wing fragments were recovered and it is speculated this aircraft may have served in a logistics role as no evidence of munitions has been recovered.