No. 411 Squadron — RCAF

No. 411 Squadron RCAF was formed on 16 June 1941 at RAF Digby as an Article XV squadron — one of the Canadian squadrons raised overseas and placed under RAF operational control. Nicknamed the Grizzly Bears, it flew Spitfires throughout the war, beginning offensive sweeps and Rhubarb sorties over occupied France in late 1941 as part of the Hornchurch Wing. Through 1942 and 1943 the squadron flew from multiple Fighter Command stations including Kenley and Biggin Hill, converting to the Spitfire IX in October 1943 and taking on a fighter-bomber role. From D-Day it operated under No. 83 Group, Second Tactical Air Force, within No. 126 (RCAF) Wing, providing close support as Allied forces advanced into Germany. Flight Lieutenant Richard Audet distinguished himself on 29 December 1944 by destroying five enemy aircraft in under two minutes — an RCAF record. The squadron disbanded at Utersen, Germany, on 21 March 1946.