Table of Contents

Foreword Contents Introduction Chapter 1: First of the Best Chapter 2: The Mysterious Phoenix of Pawlett Hams Chapter 3: Through Trials to the Stars Chapter 4: Death of a Gunnery Leader Chapter 5: Luck and Survival Chapter 6: 'Can I give you a hug' Chapter 7: Into the Silence Chapter 8: 'Love and Remembrance Last For Ever' Chapter 9: Lost over Hanover Chapter 10: 'A privilege to serve' Acknowledgements and Notes on Sources Index

About the Author

Steve Bond served in the RAF and now lectures at City University. Previous work includes histories of RAF Brize Norton, RAF St.Athan and the Gloster Meteor, along with Heroes All - a collection of wartime stories based on veteran interviews. Steve Darlow is an established military aviation author with eleven books to date. Previous work includes D-Day Bombers, Five of the Few, Five of the Many, and Flightpath to Murder. Julian Evan-Hart is a metal detectorist, aviation archaeologist and author. Through historical research, and the recording of discoveries, his aim is to bring the past to life, and ensure it is preserved for the future. Sean Feast works in PR and advertising and is the author of six books, including Heroic Endeavour, Master Bombers and Churchill's Navigator. Adam Purcell's respect for Bomber Command grew while uncovering the story of his great uncle Jack. Fighting High presents his first venture in to print. Christopher Yeoman is a military aviation author from Farnborough, Hampshire. His work includes Tiger Cub: The Story of John Freeborn, DFC* and The Battle of Britain: Portraits of the Few.

Reviews

' This captivating new book brings together a carefully selected assortment of stories ... a moving tribute and a thought provoking read.' Aeroplane Monthly (December 2011) Book of the Month - 'fascinating stories featured.' Britain at War Magazine (October 2011) ' ... an outstanding group of aviation historians ... have produced a book that is a respectful and fitting tribute ... fascinating collection of stories' WWII Connection website (October 2011)