SCOTTISH AIRFIELDS IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR Vol.1 THE LOTHIANS
Prix régulier 25,00 € TTC 6%
Characteristics
| Book cover finish | Perfect paperback |
| Condition | Like new |
| Number of pages | 160 |
| Published date | First published in 2008 |
| Language | English |
| Collection / Series | British Airfields in the Second World War |
| Size | 15 x 21 x 1 cm |
| Author | Martyn Chorlton |
| Editor | Countryside Books |
Description
Scotland's contribution to Allied success in the Second World War was colossal. The Lothian region employed thousands of workers in the building of warships, aircraft components, military vehicles, munitions, food, and coal.
The naval dockyards at Rosyth and other shipyards scattered along the Firth of Forth, in particular, were important targets for the Luftwaffe, who attacked them from the outset of the war in 1939. This was despite the German aircraft being at the limits of their range, with no fighter escort, and with no rescue in the event of mechanical failure, so that they described the Firth as "Suicide Alley."
To combat them, RAF Fighter Command had many airfields in the region. Drem, east of Edinburgh by Gullane Point, and Turnhouse, now Edinburgh International Airport, were two of Scotland's most significant fighter airfields. Their Spitfires and Hurricanes offered protection for the Navy, gave cover for convoys in the North Sea, and undertook constant coastal patrols.
Other Lothian airfields included East Fortune, with a training role that produced top-quality Mosquito and Beaufighter aircrews; Kirknewton, which became best known as a base for the storage of high-explosive ordnance; and Macmerry, near Tranent, which was a major center for the Civilian Repair Organisation (CRO) responsible for repairs and maintenance of a large number of aircraft types.
Martyn Chorlton's thoroughly researched and action-packed book describes the history of these airfields, highlights the work carried out from them, and describes the overall effect of the war on the daily lives of local people. It will appeal equally to aviation enthusiasts and to readers who recall the era when Scottish skies throbbed with the drone of departing and returning aircraft.
Martyn Chorlton is also the author of other volumes in the series, covering Leicestershire & Rutland, Cumbria, Staffordshire, and the North-East of England.
Source : Publisher's summary printed on the cover