The RAF’s Youngest Bomber Pilot of WW2: The Story of Flight Lieutenant Brian Slade DFC, Lancaster Pilot and Pathfinder

It is almost beyond belief that in 2024, more than 80 years after the events described in this book took place, there are still inspiring tales of courage, dedication, discipline and spirit to emerge afer the end of World War II. Amongst so many genuinely incredible stories about the achievements of Royal Air Force aircrew during that conflict, this one stands out as one of the most unbelievable - yet is nonetheless an inspirational true story. The "Pathfinders" were the elite of RAF Bomber Command in World War II. The subject of this story, Flt. Lt. Brian Slade DFC, was described by his commandiung officer as an "outstanding senior Pathfinder captain, at the age of 21."That in itself is noteworthy. But the truth is even more incredible - Brian Slade was actually just 19 years old. 19...! Flying a Lancaster bomber to mark a target in the most heavily defended airspace one could imagine - over Berlin in 1943. (That's where the tragic events take place). An incredible achievement for anyone at any age. But the pilot had lied about his age and joined the RAF aged 16 (the minimum for aircrew training was 18.) And yet he had already been decorated for bravery and demonstrated superior flying skills by the time he joined the Pathfinders.Unebelievable. The story is inspired, but it is in the telling of it that this book comes to life. The author describes himself as an "amateur historian", but his research is as impeccable and thorough as any leading WWII historian. Moreover the author is Brian Slade's nephew. This is what makes the story such a compelling read, because of the way it is written. Of course the author never got to meet his uncle, but the last sentence in the book gives an idea of the touching way in which he has written this book: "....it is a very strange emotion now, having told this tale, to miss a person you have never met, but I do."A heartfelt story, beautifully written, about an impressive individual.

Bought as a gift for Christmas so unable to comment on contents, but the pages look of a good quality and the hardback cover is undamaged. I am sure it will make a welcome gift.