Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Meet Michael Enright author of Flyers Far Away


FLYERS FAR AWAY
Australian aircrew in Europe during World War II


Australian airmen flying with Britain’s Royal Air Force in World War II made a remarkable contribution to the Alliedcause. This book tells their story from arrival in England to the terrifying flights over enemy territory.

There were 17,000 Australian airmen who flew with the RAF.Spread across 500 squadrons in Europe, 5000 died during the war in the air – one of World War II’s bloodiest and most punishing campaigns.

As these men were not part of the Royal Australian Air Force, their stories were almost forgotten. Using first-hand accounts from the surviving airmen, Flyers Far Away tells the full story of these daring young men, from their recruitment in Australia to operations over the Axis territories. The book is based on interviews with almost 100 airmen, allowing them to tell much of the story for the first time.

At last these courageous Australian airmen are given their rightful place in the history of the European air war.

Key coverage

• Australians in 38 Group, Second Tactical Air Force, Coastal Command and Fighter Command, especially the developing relationship between the air and ground wars, an association that developed with the D-Day landings in June 1944, which has hitherto remained virtually ignored.

• Those who flew operationally in the various tactical campaigns.

• Those who delivered airborne troops and supplies during D-Day.

• Australian aircrew involved in ill-fated attempt to seize the bridge at Arnhem and other neglected operations receive particular attention.

About the author

Dr Michael Enright is retired academic who maintains a long-standing interest in history.

He was Associate Professorship at Swinburne University of Technology and holds a PhD in History from the University of Melbourne.



WHEN:

11am. Thursday March 11, 2010.

WHERE:

Balwyn Library

336 Whitehorse Road

Balwyn.


Admission is free however bookings are essential. Click here to book or phone 9278 4666.




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