Josef František: New research clarifies death of RAF ace

New historical research and a forthcoming docudrama are shedding fresh light on the life and death of Josef František, a renowned Czechoslovak fighter ace of the Battle of Britain. Private researcher Marek Žatkovič has utilized newly discovered archival materials to clarify the circumstances of František’s death on October 8, 1940. Contrary to previous theories suggesting he died in combat or during an acrobatic maneuver, records indicate that his Hurricane aircraft separated from his formation during a routine patrol return and crashed near Ewell, south of London. František did not die at the crash site but succumbed to his injuries while being transported to Sutton and Cheam Hospital.

The findings coincide with the release of the film ‘Osamělý vlk’ (The Lone Wolf), directed by Ondřej Veverka. Due to a scarcity of archival footage specifically documenting František, the filmmakers opted for a docudrama format rather than a pure documentary. The 60-minute film combines live-action scenes, filmed in locations including Prague, Poland, and Ostrava, with approximately 15 minutes of unique archival footage sourced from ten different archives across Europe and the United States. The film features Tadeáš Moravec portraying the pilot, focusing on both his military achievements with the 303. Polish Fighter Squadron and his personal emotions.