Russell, or “Rusty” Leith was a member of 453 Squadron RAAF. He actually flew the Mk XVI Spitfire in the Museum’s collection. He served a tour with the squadron when it was reformed in England after being temporarily disbanded after the Malayan campaign. After a rest he re-joined the squadron which was then based at B11 landing ground after the invasion of France. He had a forced landing behind enemy lines in France. Rusty was looked after by the Resistance until liberated by the Canadian Army when he re-joined his squadron. Following the Arnhem action the squadron returned to England to prepare to combat the V2 rocket sites located in western Holland. He describes a dogfight off the coast of France where he shot down a Me109 and was almost shot down himself. He flew over 220 operational sorties. In January 1945 Rusty was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross. The collection of Russell's wartime memorabilia can be found on the website www.rustyleith.com