f an invasion of Britain by the German army. Canadian airmen played their part in the Battle of Britain. Over one hundred Canadian pilots flew on fighter operations during the Battle of Britain. Another two hundred fought with the RAF's Bomber and Coastal Commands. An untold number served as ground crew, keeping the fighters, bombers and patrol aircraft flying.These Canadian pilots distinguished themselves, not only in the Battle of Britain, but also in later battles. They were not alone however. Joining the British and Canadians, were pilots from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, from Czechoslovakia, France and Poland, and from the United States. It was an international effort to defend democracy. Few of them recognized the significance of their actions at the time.The significance of the Battle of Britain is more than just a matter of aircraft kills and medals. It was the first time that air power saved a nation. Not only was it a military victory, but it also gave a somber nation hope for the future. For Canada, the leadership provided by these experienced fliers was to be instrumental in the development of the Royal Canadian Air Force. The Battle of Britain was also the first occasion in which Canadian airmen flew in Canadian units in a sustained battle.The Battle of Britain was the most important battle for the Canadian air squadrons in World War II; the second most important campaign by the air corps was its support during D-Day and the ensuing invasion. At dawn, June 6, 1944, the Canadian fighter wings were sent over the beaches to stand guard while the Allied Forces poured ashore. Then, when the beachheads were firmly established, they gave air support to the British and Canadian Forces during the long and bitter fighting around Caen. The Luftwaffe did not often appear over the battle area and on the few occasions when it did come out in strength it lost heavily. On, June 28, 1944, RCAF Spitfires shot down 26 enemy aircr...
