Air Commodore Graham Pitchfork Livres

"The summer of 1940 witnessed the greatest air battle in history, as the men Winston Churchill dubbed 'The Few' fought over the skies of Britain to prevent the Luftwaffe from gaining air superiority, which would have paved the way for Hitler to invade our island. Graham Pitchfork charts the development of the epic battle fought by Fighter Command as it reacted to the changes in the Luftwaffe's strategy, reaching a climax on 15 September before finally coming to a conclusion in October 1940. In addition to the exploits of the pilots in the air, the contribution of the many ground organisations that played such a crucial role is also highlighted in this lavishly illustrated book."--Publisher description

A departure from the Cold War for the Boys series! Beaufighter air and ground crew recall their stories which range from complete memoirs to brief anecdotes. This is quite a unique book to be savoured by all those interested in the war in the air from 1939-1945.

Twenty-four aircrew who flew the iconic aircraft with the Fleet Air Arm, the Royal Air Force and the South African Air Force (SAAF) relate their experiences and affection for the Blackburn Buccaneer. Arranged in chronological order, the book traces the history of the aircraft and the tasks it fulfilled.

Until the end of the Cold War in 1990, the RAF had several major bases worldwide – largely in those areas where the service had been based during the inter-war years. In Cold War Boys Overseas contributors recall their time at these foreign destinations.

Thirty Buccaneer 'Boys', drawn from the Fleet Air Arm, the RAF and the South African Air Force, outline their experiences in the maritime role, operations overland, including the first Gulf War, and operations by the South Africans in the Border Wars. In addition to the aircrew, air engineer officers and ground crew have also contributed.

Enthralling stories of adventure and bravery from RAF pilots shot down in the sea during World War II – and those who rescued them.

Thousands of airmen shot down over enemy soil between 1940 and 1945 miraculously escaped capture. This compelling narrative reveals their stories, based on first-hand interviews, photographs and official documents, featuring heroes from Britain, Canada, Australia and other Commonwealth countries. These men knew extreme adversity: hunger, thirst, injury, isolation and the constant fear of capture. They also knew great kindness from the local people who risked everything to help them. Their journeys to safety – often across savage terrain – tested human endurance and ingenuity to the very limit.

208 Squadron celebrated its centenary in October 2016, making it one of the few RAF squadrons to achieve this distinction whilst still part of the RAF's current order of battle. To celebrate, Air Commodore Pitchfork compiled a history of the squadron's activities and personnel, illustrating the comradeship and professionalism of the squadron.

A compendium of fascinating tales of heroism in the skies during the Second World War.