He fights for freedom. These words are inscribed on the Winged Lion Memorial. They echo the courage of Czechoslovak airmen. They served with the Royal Air Force during World War II. This Winged Lion Memorial stands as a testament to their bravery.
The Winged Lion Memorial is in Prague’s Lesser Town. It is specifically dedicated to the 2,500 Czech and Slovak airmen. They risked their lives for freedom. They fought alongside the British during World War II.
Unveiled in 2014, the Winged Lion Memorial is the creation of British sculptor Colin Spofforth. The two-meter-high lion was cast in bronze. It was crafted in Horní Kalná. The Winged Lion stands proudly on a concrete plinth. Czech granite covers it. From above, the pedestal resembles the Czech Air Force insignia.
Notice the plinth’s side coverings. Rivets replicate the fuselage of WWII aircraft. Since 2018, names of all Czechoslovaks who served are etched here. The Winged Lion Memorial honors their individual sacrifices.
The Winged Lion Memorial is more than just a statue. It symbolizes gratitude. The British community in Czechia and Slovakia donated almost all of the funds. They wanted to express their thanks. The Winged Lion Memorial serves as a gift to the Czech and Slovak people.
Sir Nicholas Soames unveiled the Winged Lion Memorial. He is the grandson of Sir Winston Churchill. He reminded everyone of Churchill’s famous words. He said that never was so much owed by so many to so few.
Music filled the air during the dedication. The Royal Air Force College band played. The Pipes and Drums of the Queen’s Royal Hussars also performed. Nine former Czechoslovak RAF members attended. A Spitfire flew overhead. It honored Squadron Leader Otto Smik.
After February 1948, many RAF airmen faced persecution. The communist regime targeted them. They had returned to Czechoslovakia after the war. The Winged Lion Memorial also acknowledges their suffering.
The Winged Lion Memorial faced initial opposition. Prague’s conservationists protested its location. Their appeal was rejected. The Winged Lion Memorial remains here. It is a powerful reminder of courage and sacrifice.
Take a moment to appreciate this Winged Lion Memorial. Remember the brave airmen. They fought for freedom. Their legacy lives on.