Bombers over Berlin The RAF Offensive Nov 1943 – March 1944 By Alan W. Cooper While owning and having read one of Alan Cooper’s previous books, ‘The Men Who Breached the Dams’, it fair to say I already knew what to expect. He has an impressive list of books on his resume as an aviation historian, not only that but he carries a dependable writing style, not just in prose but within the facts. Facts, which you know are well researched. This book was first published in 1985. It is well accounted with photos of the raids on Berlin as well as general reference ones of Bomber Command. There are also maps of the routes taken in and out for every raid (with diversions); these are very basic, which to be honest doesn’t really matter, at least they are there. However, the real gems within the pages are the firsthand accounts from the men who flew to the Big City. They are numerous and generously interspersed. These not only add interest but give bones to the facts and figures. The men who returned, those injured, those killed and those who were taken PoW or evaded capture are allowed to have their stories told. Every aspect of the raids is given, the amount of aircraft used, the routes, the marking, the payloads, diversions, damage, combats and losses. However, apart from information from Goebbels diaries there is no real mention of those on the ground who were being inflicted with this terrifying experience. The appendices of the loss amounts and of every aircraft with crew and reason are a very nice touch. It also helps the reader to realise what a cauldron of fear that Berlin must have been. From the map tape stretching on and on, the clue of a massive fuel load to the smell of cordite and fire over the target itself. Not only was the flak a constant danger but the night fighters lurking in the cloak of darkness. Makes you think that today’s generation would do well to honour these men. Pages: 319 ISBN: 978-1-78159-065-2 Pen & Sword Aviation
does this mean the book has been re-published ? i've had this book on my shelves since 1985 agree with your comments the maps are reproduced with permission from documents held at the Public Record Office and appear to come from the night raids reports
does this mean the book has been re-published ? i've had this book on my shelves since 1985 agree with your comments the maps are reproduced with permission from documents held at the Public Record Office and appear to come from the night raids reports Yes, it's been republished. That explains the maps, thanks.
