History Daily Saturday Matinee: Face the Attack: The Three Battles of Sailor Malan
Jan 18, 2025
A.G. ‘Sailor’ Malan, a prominent South African fighter pilot and ace of WWII, shares his journey from farm boy to aviation legend. He discusses his battlefield tactics, including his renowned 10 rules of air combat, particularly during pivotal moments like the Battle of Dunkirk. Sailor reveals the emotional toll of war and his struggles with both leadership and personal life post-conflict, set against the backdrop of apartheid's rise. His legacy is one of valor, skill, and the psychological burdens faced by fighter pilots.
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Sailor Malan's Three Battles
- Sailor Malan, a South African farm boy, became a decorated fighter pilot in WWII, revered in Britain but considered a traitor by some in his home country.
- His life involved three battles: victory against Germany, defeat against apartheid, and ultimately, death from Parkinson's disease.
Facing the Attack
- Sailor Malan lived by the motto "always turn and face the attack," applying it to both aerial combat and life's challenges.
- This reflects his aggressive determination as a fighter pilot.
First Taste of Combat
- Over Dunkirk, Sailor Malan shot down his first enemy plane, experiencing the thrill of combat.
- He relentlessly pursued enemy aircraft, even following them close to the ground.