Mosquito Intruder Pilot: A Young Pilot s WW2 Experiences in Europe and the Far East

During World War II, Ben Walsh lied about his age to join the RAF and became a Mosquito Intruder Pilot, flying low-level operations in the dark. He flew for three years, starting in Europe with 418 (RCAF) Squadron, ferrying one of the first Mosquito FB VIs to India, and flying in the Burma campaign with 27 Squadron and 45 Squadron. The strain of combat operations took its toll on him, and he was suffering from a nervous condition known as the twitch. His confidence and health were restored by his pen friend, who became his wife and the mother of the man who has compiled this biography.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 06 May 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Ben Walsh, driven by his unwavering desire to contribute to the Second World War, lied about his age to enlist in the Royal Air Force (RAF). His determination led him to volunteer for the role of an intruder pilot, undertaking low-level operations in the dark. Initially flying Douglas Boston Intruder IIs, he transitioned to the legendary de Havilland Mosquito FB VI. For three years, Ben flew operational missions, starting with 418 (RCAF) Squadron in Europe, transporting one of the first Mosquito FB VIs to India, participating in the Burma campaign with 27 Squadron under Wing Commander Nicolson VC, and finally joining 45 Squadron.

However, the Mosquito encountered severe climate conditions in the Far East, leading to temporary grounding in November 1944. During this period, Ben undertook thirteen operational sorties in venerable Tiger Moths in the Arakan. Despite facing numerous challenges, including belly landings, crashes, enemy fire, and engine failures, Ben survived the ordeal. The strain of combat operations, however, took a toll on his young age. He and his navigator requested to be removed from operations, but their request was denied, leaving them threatened with court martial.

By the end of the war, Ben was only 21 years old but already suffering from a nervous condition known as "the twitch." His confidence and health were restored by the young woman who had been his pen friend throughout the war, eventually becoming his wife and the mother of the man who compiled this dramatic and moving story—Jeremy Walsh. Throughout the war, Ben maintained a Roll of Honour in his photograph album, honoring his friends and colleagues who lost their lives. This album serves as the backdrop for this important biography, which is based on Ben's own recollections, his logbook, and the notes he kept during the war. Mosquito Intruder Pilot is Ben's story, a testament to his bravery and dedication to the cause of freedom.

Weight: 738g
Dimension: 166 x 241 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399084772