Adding to their growing library of Commonwealth squadron histories is this one on 453 Squadron. One of several units formed on the Buffalo to help in the defense of Malaya and Singapore, most of their air to air kills were obtained flying this plane against the Japanese. After being pretty well decimated along with most other Allied air units in the first months of the Pacific War, this unit reformed in the UK flying various marks of the Spitfire. Its air to air success was not matched in Europe, though they did go on to provide sterling service with the 2nd TAF after the D-Day landings. Like most units, they were disbanded within a year of the end of the war.

The 90 pages of softbound book are basically divided into two sections. The first section is a squadron history from its formation in 1941 until it was disbanded in 1946. Throughout this portion, there are photos of the aircraft used as well as superbly drawn color profiles of some. Special sections are also in there that provide snippets of information that include things like serial/code tie-ins for a specific time period, organizational information, code names and the like.

Part two is  the Appendix, and  this covers  a myriad of things like squadron commanders, details of first and last mission, bases, total sorties by date, know serial/code tie-ins during the existence of the unit, victory and loss list and a lot more. Then there is a small biography of every known pilot from the unit during each of the two times the squadron was in existence. Each man's information includes successes and awards. Some of the more notable pilots have their personal information expanded. Throughout this section are more great photographs and profiles. I'd also like to add that the cover format has changed for the better, adding a large photo instead of just a blue background.

Overall, it is a superbly researched and presented book. One that I found fascinating and one that is bound to be a valuable reference resource in the years to come. Most highly recommended.

May 2009

Review book courtesy of www.raf-in-combat.com. Visit them for other great titles

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