Julian Stryjak's military ID card, Polish Armed Forces in the West

Polish Armed Forces in the West – Polish Army command formed in exile, under the leadership of the Polish government-in-exile. At its head was the Supreme Commander. Formed originally in autumn 1939, on the basis of Allied agreements.
In France, army, aviation and navy units were established. The Highland Rifle Brigade took part in the Battle of Narvik in May 1940. In the UK, the Polish Air Force was formed, subordinated to Royal Air Force – initially comprising Bomber Squadrons 300 and 301, and Fighter Squadrons 302 and 303, which fought in the Battle of Britain.
The Polish Navy, subordinated to the Royal Navy, took part in battles in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. The 1st Armored Division, commanded by General Maczek, fought in the victory at Falaise in August 1944. The 1st Independent Parachute Brigade, commanded by General Sosabowski, took part in the Battle of Arnhem in September 1944. In June 1940, the Polish Armed Forces in the West numbered about 31,000 soldiers. In summer 1942, it was joined by 78,000 soldiers evacuated from the Soviet Union (Anders Army). They later fought in Italy, in the ranks of the II Corps.