Art Donahue learned to fly as a teenager at the Conrad Flying Service, operated by Max Conrad, an aviator known as the "Flying Grandfather" who had set numerous world records for distance and endurance.
10 Facts About Art Donahue
1.
2.
Art Donahue traveled to Canada, claimed to be Canadian, and was accepted.
3.
Art Donahue thus became one of ten Americans to fly for the RAF in the Battle of Britain in 1940.
4.
On 29 September 1940, Art Donahue was reassigned to No 71 Squadron, one of three Eagle Squadrons, RAF units composed of American pilots, but did not see combat with that unit.
5.
In February 1941, Art Donahue served with No 91 Squadron, although in March he went on leave back to the USA.
6.
Art Donahue became the first American in RAF history to lead an all-British squadron.
7.
Art Donahue was credited with downing two enemy aircraft, with two more probables and one damaged.
8.
Art Donahue was awarded four medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross on 27 March 1942.
9.
On one occasion, whilst carrying out an attack against enemy troops attempting a landing, Flying Officer Art Donahue silenced the enemy's fire, thus enabling the rest of the formation to press home their attacks with impunity.
10.
Flight Lieutenant Art Donahue was killed in action on 11 September 1942, while a member of No 91 Squadron.