Bomber Pilot: Bomber Command Pilot Leonard Cheshire's Classic Second World War Memoir

During World War II, Leonard Cheshire was a highly decorated Royal Air Force pilot who commanded No. 617 Squadron and pioneered low-level marking and precision bombing. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his efforts and later established the Leonard Cheshire Foundation, a leading disability care charity. "Bomber Pilot" is his contemporary account of his experiences in Bomber Command, including his time with No. 102 Squadron, No. 35 Squadron, and No. 76 Squadron.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2019
Publisher: Fighting High Ltd

Leonard Cheshire, a remarkable figure in the annals of World War II, stands as one of the most decorated pilots of that era. As the youngest Group Captain in the Royal Air Forces in 1943, he willingly accepted a demotion and assumed command of No. 617 Squadron, where he pioneered low-level marking and precision bombing techniques. His unwavering dedication and exceptional personal achievements during four years of fierce combat against the most formidable opposition earned him the prestigious Victoria Cross.

In 1945, Cheshire had the privilege of witnessing the historic drop of the second atomic bomb on Nagasaki as an official observer. Post-war, his unwavering commitment to humanitarian work on behalf of disabled individuals led to the establishment of the Leonard Cheshire Foundation (now recognized as Leonard Cheshire), which has become the world's leading disability care charity.

Published in 1943, Bomber Pilot offers a firsthand account of Leonard Cheshire's experiences during his initial three years with Bomber Command. His engaging writing style vividly captures the youthful exuberance of the aircrew, while also revealing the gradual understanding of the immense responsibilities and risks they faced. Cheshire vividly describes his early experiences as a novice co-pilot with No. 102 Squadron, culminating in his receipt of the Distinguished Service Order for his role in action.

After a brief interlude in North America, Cheshire returned to the UK to join No. 35 Squadron, where he played a crucial role in the introduction of the Halifax into service. Subsequently, he assumed command of No. 76 Squadron, where he continued to excel in his military career.

In this new edition of Bomber Pilot, Leonard Cheshire's original text is complemented by an insightful commentary provided by Dr. Robert Owen, an esteemed aviation historian and Official Historian of No. 617 Squadron Association. Dr. Owen's commentary provides valuable additional details and context to the events described by Cheshire, placing them within the broader framework of the Bomber Offensive and its profound impact on the course of the war.

Leonard Cheshire's remarkable journey from a young Group Captain to a decorated war hero and compassionate humanitarian is a testament to his unwavering dedication and selflessness. His legacy continues to inspire individuals and organizations worldwide, as the Leonard Cheshire Foundation continues to make a significant difference in the lives of those with disabilities.

Weight: 672g
Dimension: 168 x 241 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781999812867