When 56 Squadron arrived in France with the new Se.5 in April of 1917, the RFC was in the middle of the worst month of the war in terms of pilot losses. The Germans had taken a steady toll of pilots and planes thanks to their superior Albatros and Halberstadt fighters. It was now time to see how the new British fighter would hold up against these German planes and the very experienced pilots who flew them.

Much to the delight of the RFC, the Se.5 turned out to be a quality aircraft and in the hands of notable pilots like Albert Ball, Hank Burden and James McCudden, was able to rack up a considerable score against the Germans.

The author does an excellent job of telling the story of 56 squadron in this series' usual diary format. There are highlights of some of the more memorable missions to add spice to the read. All of this is even more enhanced by a  superb collection of period photos of the pilots and aircraft . In addition there are 28 full color profiles profiles and upper/lower drawings. Appendices include an aces listing, fatalities in the unit and those Germans who were victorious over 56 squadron aircraft.  .

It is a superb book on the subject and one that I can recommend to you without reservation.

October 2009

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