This next book in the Aces series is on those 109 aces who did not reach the 100 victories tally. The list is still quite impressive even though it is limited to those who got less than a hundred but more than 50 victories during the fighting with the Soviets. This includes a few 'more than 100 victory' aces like Heinz Bar, though he did get less than 100 while fighting in Russia. 

As you might expect, there are a LOT of stories in this one. In addition to covering the men who achieved these high totals, there are the usual 'there I was...' bits, which add so much to books like this one. I found it interesting that most of these men achieved their scores flying the 109F or early G in various guises. The rather extensive profiles page shows fewer than a hand-full of G-6 and later or even E model aircraft.

Unlike the Western European theater, the men who fought on the Soviet fronts had to amass rather high scores to wear the coveted Knight's Cross, often needing more than 50 and sometimes up to near 100 victories. Meanwhile, those fighting the British and American forces were given this honor for far fewer confirmed victories. This caused some dissent amongst the pilots, but most realized that the opportunities were often greater in the East as they frequently flew six or seven sorties a day, something unheard of in the West.

Overall, this is a superb book and one that 109 fans, Luftwaffe enthusiasts and modelers alike will find invaluable. As with all Osprey titles, one that I can highly recommend and one you can purchase with confidence.

April 2007

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