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The raids to attack
the German Dams in May 1943 are probably one of the most well known events
of World War Two. Thanks to a 1955 film called 'The Dam Busters' that
continues to excite new generations of audiences there can be few of us
that are not aware of 617 squadron, the bouncing bomb, and a dog named
'nigger'. Indeed, the story is so well known that it was even parodied
to advertise a well known alcoholic beverage.
Whilst the film is
a personal favourite, I have read few factual accounts of the events and
was most interested to receive a proof copy of this book for review. If
nothing else I thought I might discover just how accurate was the film.
The book begins with
a Foreword by Richard Todd OBE who was cast as Guy Gibson in the 1955
film, followed by an introduction from the author. It then progresses
through a thorough and systematic breakdown of the events that lead to
the raid, the raid itself, and the aftermath. It also has chapters on
key individuals and the 1955 film. To complete the book there are appendices
on those that failed to return, surviving aircraft, and those that survived
the raid. The whole book is comprehensively illustrated with photographs
and diagrams.
Another book which,
once started, I couldn't put down. The author is easy to read, the text
is informative and holds your attention, and the photographs and illustrations
are excellent. Many of the photographs I have not seen before and are
a great addition to the book.
The book dispels a
few myths from both the 1955 film (which was unable to accurately report
all aspects of the raid as it was still classified) and later documentaries.
It brings together eyewitness accounts and original documentation to form
a comprehensive account of the dams raid that is well worth putting on
your bookshelf.
Having a few friends
who are interested in wartime aviation/events I did show them my proof
copy to gauge their reaction. After a flick through they all, without
exception, wanted to take it home with them!
Like them, I know
that I too will have to get a copy of this excellent book for my bookshelf.
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