FIGHTER PILOT

FIGHTER PILOT
By Helen Doe.


Following the writing of his own memoir many years ago, Bob Doe's book daughter has written this updated and freshly researched account that also aims to remember those who flew with Bob during the second world war. 

It is still remarkable to think that Bob Doe was still just a teenager when he received his first frontline squadron posting. From there he fought in the Battle of Britain flying both Spitfires and Hurricanes. For him and many of his fellow pilots, this was not only their first taste of combat, but also having to deal with the deaths of friends and colleagues. 

Despite often considered an average pilot by his instructors, Bob's success in the air and his valuable experience would eventually see him become a leader himself. Transferring to India in 1943, he was tasked with leading and training a new squadron in a hot climate with basic amenities that would push all the men to the limit. 
Fighting a new enemy in the Japanese, the skies above the Burmese jungle would be a long way from those rolling green fields of home.

Along with revealing her father's story, Helen's narrative also provides us with many stories of those other pilots who flew alongside Bob. We also hear from some of those who served as ground crew. It all helps to provide the reader with a deeper sense of squadron life as well as revealing some of the pilot's own thoughts and fears.
This is a very engaging read that allows us many decades later to continue to honour the bravery of these young men.
An excellent book.

This paperback edition is available now and published by Amberley. I thank Amberley for this review copy. 

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