Antique World War II Polish Military Photography
An authentic antique World War II hand colored photography portrait of a Polish Air Force Officer from the Polish Army in England. The photo is mounted in its authentic gold gilded brass frame. Dimensions of frame: 30,5cm (12in) x 25, 7cm (10 1/8in) Dimensions of photography: 25,4cm (10in) x20cm (7 7/8 in)
He was awarded the Virtuti Militari and the Polish Cross of Valour with two bars
The "eagle" is his Polish Air Force navigator's wings. The navigator was often in command of the aircraft. I don't remember what the green enamel represents on the wreath in the eagle's beak ... possibly completion of a "tour of duty". No rank is evident on his tunic.
He was awarded: the Virtuti Militari (Poland's highest award for bravery during wartime)
the Polish Cross of Valour 3 times - 2 bars can be seen on the ribbon (Poland's 2nd highest bravery award) the Polish Air Force Pilot's Medal (most likely award)
not sure of the next two, the ribbon bar's hand touched colour scheme doesn't quite match but given order of precedence there is no doubt about the first two or the subsequent British Campaign Medals.
He was also awarded 6 British Service Medals:
the Aircrew Europe Star either a bomber Navigator or pilot
the 1939-45 Star
the Atlantic Star
the Africa Star
the Defence Medal
the War Medal 1939-45