Alina Brudnicka, the wife of Colonel Józef Brudnicki, has donated a Polish Air Force airfield flag from World War II to the Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków. The museum describes the artifact as a world-class rarity.
The donation was announced on Monday by Tomasz Kosecki, the museum's director.
The flag, measuring 350x170 cm, is believed to be the largest surviving example of its kind. "Currently, only a few flags of this type are known, primarily housed in museums in Poland and the United Kingdom. These flags are typically smaller, not exceeding 150 cm in length," Kosecki noted.
No doubt over authenticity
The flag consists of two stitched fabric strips - white and red - and ends in a "swallowtail" design. On the white upper section near the hoist, it features a hand-painted aviation checkerboard and the Polish national emblem.
This exceptional artifact offers a rare glimpse into the history of the Polish Air Force during WWII and serves as a valuable addition to the museum's collection.
According to representatives of the Polish Aviation Museum (MLP), the material and craftsmanship of the flag leave no doubt about its authenticity. "Several historical photographs show flags of this size. This flag also bears numerous repairs and signs of use," the museum director stated.
Museum at one of the oldest airfields
The flag was brought to Poland by Polish pilot Colonel Józef Brudnicki from the 35th Reunion of Polish Aviators held in London in September 1995. It was later donated to the Kraków museum by his wife, Alina Brudnicka, who has previously contributed several items to the institution.
Her earlier donations include Colonel Brudnicki’s dress uniform, medals, decorations with accompanying documents, and navigational instruments.
Founded in 1963, the Polish Aviation Museum safeguards and showcases both Polish and global aviation heritage. Located on one of Europe’s oldest airfields, it is among the largest museums of its kind in Europe. Its extensive collection includes over 200 airplanes, gliders, and helicopters, more than 140 aircraft engines, and various missile systems.
Additionally, the museum houses a significant archive of aviation books, over 20,000 photographs, and a collection of more than 2,000 orders and decorations.
Źródło: TVN24 News in English, PAP
Źródło zdjęcia głównego: Muzeum Lotnictwa Polskiego w Krakowie