Strong to Serve: An Australian Spitfire Pilot’s War Over Europe By Joseph Mack

Author: Joseph Mack
Publisher: Big Sky Publishing
Place Published: Newport, NSW
Year: 2022
Format: Softcover
Pages: 255 pages, plus 32 unnumbered pages of plates
ISBN: 9781922615718
Type of Book: Australian Military History / World War II Aviation / Biography

Description

Strong to Serve tells the remarkable wartime story of Australian Spitfire pilot Fred Riley, who flew with No. 130 (Punjab) Squadron RAF during the Second World War. After training in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, Riley flew Spitfire Mk. V aircraft on bomber escorts, fighter sweeps and dangerous D-Day patrols.

Later flying the Spitfire Mk. XIV, he intercepted V-1 flying bombs targeting London and undertook anti-jet and low-level sorties from bases in the Netherlands and Belgium. His logbook records significant names, places and events, including service alongside notable fighter aces, escorting General Eisenhower and protecting transport aircraft during Operation Market Garden.

Drawing on Riley’s memories, logbook and wartime experiences, Joseph Mack presents a vivid account of one Australian pilot’s journey into combat, as well as the courage and sacrifice of the multinational pilots of 130 Squadron.

Condition

Used softcover. Light wear to covers. Internally near fine.

Why You’ll Love It

A compelling Australian World War II aviation biography, ideal for readers interested in Spitfire pilots, RAF fighter squadrons, D-Day, Operation Market Garden and personal accounts of aerial combat over Europe.