Henry Birkland
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For other people with the same name, see Birkland.
Henry Birkland (16 August 1917 – 31 March 1944), was a Canadian Spitfire pilot who was taken prisoner during the Second World War. He took part in the 'Great Escape' from Stalag Luft III in March 1944, but was one of the men re-captured and murdered by the Gestapo.
Quick Facts Birth name, Nickname(s) ...
Henry Birkland | |
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Birth name | Henry Birkland |
Nickname(s) | Hank |
Born | (1917-08-16)16 August 1917 Caldwell, Manitoba |
Died | 31 March 1944(1944-03-31) (aged 26) near Sagan, German-occupied Poland |
Buried | Poznan Old Garrison Cemetery, Poland |
Allegiance | Canada |
Service/ | Royal Canadian Air Force |
Years of service | 1940–1944 |
Rank | Flight lieutenant |
Service number | J5233 |
Unit | No. 72 Squadron RAF |
Battles/wars | World War II |
Awards | Mentioned in Despatches |
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