Going Solo

On April 17-19, the situation in Greece continues to worsen. Fewer pilots return from their missions, and the squadron’s numbers dwindle rapidly as each engagement takes its toll. By April 19, the squadron is left with 12 Hurricanes and 12 pilots. All 12 of the remaining Hurricanes in Greece are instructed to fly in formation in Athens as a show of force, led by the legendary Flight-Lieutenant Pat Pattle. As they circle above the city, the German Luftwaffe launches a massive assault, with hundreds of enemy fighters overwhelming the Hurricanes. The squadron breaks formation, and each pilot is left to fend for himself in a chaotic dogfight. The ensuing battle is known as the Battle of Athens.

During the frenzied combat, Dahl witnesses several Hurricanes being shot down. He manages to engage multiple enemy aircraft, though the overwhelming number makes it impossible to track his effectiveness. With his ammunition depleted and his plane badly damaged, Dahl manages to steer his unresponsive Hurricane back to Elevsis. Landing safely, Dahl finds his aircraft riddled with bullet holes.

The toll is heavy: five of the 12 Hurricanes were lost, and four pilots were killed, including Pat Pattle and Flight-Lieutenant Timber Woods, the second most experienced pilot in the squadron.