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Unveiling the Forgotten Heroes: The History of the Mexican Pilots Who Fought in World War II

Jorge Luis Borges

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Published in 201st Squadron: The Aztec Eagles: The History Of The Mexican Pilots Who Fought In World War II

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201st Squadron: The Aztec Eagles: The History of the Mexican Pilots Who Fought in World War II

by Robert W. Black

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8202 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	210 pages

Mexican Pilots In World War II 201st Squadron: The Aztec Eagles: The History Of The Mexican Pilots Who Fought In World War II

In the annals of World War II, the contributions of countless soldiers, sailors, and airmen have been chronicled and celebrated. However, one group of brave aviators has often been relegated to the forgotten pages of history: the Mexican pilots who fought alongside the Allies.

In 1942, as the war raged across Europe and the Pacific, Mexico declared war on the Axis powers. In a bold move that surprised many, the Mexican government decided to send a squadron of fighter pilots to join the fight against fascism. These pilots, drawn from the ranks of the Mexican Air Force, were eager to prove themselves on the world stage.

The Mexican pilots were assigned to the United States Army Air Forces' 20th Fighter Group. They were trained at Luke Field in Arizona and equipped with P-47 Thunderbolt fighters. In the summer of 1943, the squadron, known as Squadron 201, was deployed to the Pacific Theater.

Initially, the Mexican pilots were assigned to escort and ground attack missions. However, they soon proved their mettle in air-to-air combat. On November 17, 1943, four Mexican pilots engaged a group of Japanese Zero fighters over Guadalcanal. In a fierce dogfight, the Mexicans shot down three Zeros, without suffering any losses.

The Mexican pilots continued to distinguish themselves in the air war over the Pacific. They participated in the Battle of Midway, one of the most important naval battles of the war. They also flew escort missions for American bombers during the invasion of the Philippines.

By the end of the war, the Mexican pilots had flown over 1,000 combat missions. They had shot down 19 enemy aircraft and destroyed numerous ground targets. They had also earned the respect and admiration of their American comrades.

After the war, the Mexican pilots returned home as heroes. They had proven that they were equal to any other air force in the world. Their contributions to the Allied victory should never be forgotten.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the story of the Mexican pilots who fought in World War II. Several books and documentaries have been produced about their exploits. Their legacy of bravery and sacrifice continues to inspire Mexican and American alike.

The Mexican pilots who fought in World War II were a remarkable group of men. They fought with courage and distinction, and they played an important role in the Allied victory. Their story is one that deserves to be told and retold.

201st Squadron: The Aztec Eagles: The History of the Mexican Pilots Who Fought in World War II

by Robert W. Black

4.8 out of 5