In the case of the most recent volume (Nr.6) the authors have still followed their format of including an article on a WW2 aircraft, followed by a more modern period, coupled with an article on SA armour. They have, however, taken different tack and have opted for a more personal note.

In the case of the Spitfire in SAAF service, instead of attempting to address the different aircraft used by a number of SAAF squadrons during and post WW2, a task which was done superbly by Steven McLean in his book “Spifires in SAAF Service”, they have opted to focus on the mounts of a single pilot, namely Lt M.E. S. “Eric” Robinson, who became an ace with a final tally of 5.5 enemy aircraft.

His personal aircraft have been of some interest to SAAF aficionados due to the name “CireCooks” with which they were embellished. In contrast to previous reports the authors, via the aid of personal notes, photos and logbooks, can now irrefutably show that his name was a composite of Eric (Cire is Eric backwards) and his wife’s name “Cooks”.

The authors provide a detailed history of Eric’s endeavours and achievements whilst with the SAAF, including the account that he was the first pilot of his squadron to be shot down by a USAF P-38 Lightning, to his unfortunate death on his return to South Africa during training.

Details of his aircraft, including two Hawker Hurricanes, are provided n the form of rare photos and very useful large 3 view sketches.

The second chapter is in essence an addendum to a previous article on the use of the F-86 Sabre in Korea and provides very useful details of the Lockheed T-33’s used by 2 Squadron SAAF for their jet training conversion, as well as two highly interesting photo of SAAF sabres flying in unison with RAAF Gloster Meteors.

The section on armour includes developments during the Anglo-Boer War, to the use of light armoured vehicles by the UDF (Union Defence Force) such as the Crossley Indian Type Armoured Cars, Vickers  Medium Mk1A tanks, Light Dragon APCs and Motorcycle Coys.

In summary, this is another excellent volume in a growing series of excellent monographs with are not to be missed by anyone interested in the SAAF or SADF. The authors are to be commended on the depth and detail of their research, and for not just providing a rehash of previously published material. Many of the schemes illustrated were even unfamiliar to me.  I for one am eagerly awaiting number 7 which will cover the Sikorsky S55 helicopter, the C-130 Hercules and armour such as the Saladin and Saracen.

Perhaps number 8 will feature more Spitfires, such as the recce machines used by 40 Squadron, the two tone blue machines used by 4 Sqn. whilst patrolling over the Mediterranean, or the 7 wing aircraft with their tell-tale red markings?

Copies of this limited edition print are available from: www.aviationshop.co.za, www.aviationmegastore.com  or directly from the authors at: mechinf@netactive.co.za.

 Sinuhe Hahn

January 2008 

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