Heroes of the RAF: No.50 Squadron

Key note: Thrilling real Life Accounts of Fighting in the Air from 1916 to the Falklands. No.50 Squadron was a leading RAF bomber squadron in World War II and bombed the Falklands in 1982.

Formed as a fighter squadron in 1916 to counter the Zeppelin airships that were bombing British cities in World War I, No.50 Squadron built an enviable reputation as a crack fighter squadron under the command of one Arthur Harris - better known as “Bomber” Harris.

In 1937 the squadron was remustered as a bomber squadron, now under Harris as Group commander. It was in bombers that No.50 went to war in 1939. In the war torn skies over Europe, the men of No.50 were to win a Victoria Cross, 6 DSOs, 70 DFCs and 114 DFMs. The heroic determination of the squadron’s aircrews and their often terrifying encounters with the Third Reich’s Luftwaffe make for thrilling reading. In 1952 the squadron gained jet bombers, and it was in Vulcans that the squadron went to bomb the Falklands in 1982.

This book looks at the heroic men (and more recently women) who have fought with the squadron over the years. It details their exploits in battle, their life with the squadron and in many cases their subsequent careers in the RAF.

About the Author
Rupert Matthews has written over 150 books for different publishers, achieving significant sales in a variety of markets both in the UK and abroad. His works have been translated into 19 languages and have been shortlisted for a number of awards. Rupert’s father served in RAF Bomber Command during the war, being wounded in action.