Capt. observer
Jan Tadeusz Buczma (1899–1980) was a lieutenant colonel observer-pilot of the Polish Army, a participant in the fights for Polish independence, and a Knight of the Virtuti Militari War Order. He was born on 17 November 1899 in the village of Wojtkowa. He began his military service during the period when the independent Polish state was being formed. As an observer and pilot he participated in the operations of the Polish Army’s aviation, taking part among others in the Polish-Bolshevik War, where he distinguished himself through courage and skill in reconnaissance and combat operations. In the interwar period he served in various aviation units, including the 2nd Aviation Regiment. He was involved in both reconnaissance flights and operational tasks, participating in the development of Polish military aviation and gaining experience in both staff and line service. For his combat merits he was decorated with the Virtuti Militari War Order, awarded for valour demonstrated on the battlefield. After World War II he settled in Sopot, where he spent his final years. He died on 5 February 1980.
