Dowding & Churchill: The Dark Side of the Battle of Britain

by Jack Dixon

Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh later Lord Dowding was one of the greatest Englishmen of the 20th century. He created Fighter Command with its unique early warning system (radar) from nothing in 1936 to the efficient defensive force it became in 1940. In consequence Fighter Command was the only arm that was properly prepared for battle when war was declared against Germany. Hugh Dowding led Fighter Command in the Battle of Britain, and was victorious. The campaign, although a series of defensive engagements, was one of the decisive battles of Western Civilization.The strategic importance of the Battle of Britain was recognized at the time, yet, the moment it was won Dowding was summarily relieved of his command and shuffled into retirement without recognition, reward or promotion. This book reveals that this was the result of a shabby conspiracy by fellow officers. The Air Ministry published a brief account of the Battle in March 1941 and in it there was no mention of Dowding.Churchill was furiously indignant. But in November 1940 he had acquiesced in Dowdings removal. Why? And what are the factors that led to Dowdings dismissal in the first place? In this thought-provoking and authoritative book Jack Dixon answers these questions and explains Dowdings true greatness.

Genres: Aviation History

498 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Elizabeth Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not so much an account of Hugh Dowding’s exploits as Air Chief Marshal and neglected hero of the Battle of Britain, but of the behind the scenes view of how and why he was removed from command.

The author pulls from a variety of sources, but primarily letters, personal accounts and recollections after the fact, to illustrate how politics influenced an organisation that is often painted in a glamorous one-sided fashion. The myth being that, for the victors, branches of the military were dictated by merit and ability, and that the ‘greatest’ won the day. But as this book demonstrates, there was immense amount of conflict at the time over who was best to lead, what the ideal strategies were, and how things could be improved.

I think this book shone brightest when setting the scene for why these divisions existed, as well as conveying the sense of urgency among all parties involved when it came to the war. There’s some fascinating data and historical correspondence employed that showcases what we now know to be true – that much of Dowding’s decision making was instrumental to winning the Battle of Britain – while still forming a clear timeline of his removal.

The book is ultimately conspiratorial, but not in any far-fetched way. The evidence does show a consistent progression from disagreements over best strategy, to lobbying within parliament for a leadership change, and the generous interpretation would be that Dowding’s critics sincerely believed they could do better and ultimately save more lives.

However the author’s style throughout the book has this antagonistic rhetorical voice that seemingly wants you to get riled up, rather than simply absorb the facts. At times I felt conflicted by the lack of distance the writing had from the subject matter, as if there was a compulsion to inject personal reference over each bit of evidence presented. I happened to agree with the opinions put forward in many of these instances, but I can’t deny feeling like it was airing out grievances rather than a historical presentation.

Nonetheless, I appreciated all of the context this book added to Hugh Dowding’s time as Air Chief Marshal. And the overriding feeling his story leaves you with is one of gratitude, tinged with the remorse that he wasn’t treated better.

[Paulo Mendes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Those who enjoy to learn about World War II heard about the Battle of Britain for sure, as it is the world`s most famous air battle and is often known as a turning point in the War. Who does not remember the Churchill`s “the few”? It is said that the British victory saved the island as well as the West World. But not so many know about the events behind the scenes, the struggles between RAF Air Marshals and so many other officers on tactics, priorities, doctrines, resources, and so on. From those clashes a name arises: Sir Hugh Dowding, the man who lead the Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain and that stood up against those who did not want to focus on the defence of the island but on diverting resources to attack Germany. However, unbelievable as it may be or just because of that, Dowding was the only of the main officers deeply involved in the Battle who was not promoted to Air Marshal of the Royal Air Force, the highest rank in the RAF, after the war. Dixon explores the causes for he had being disregarded by the highest ranks in the RAF. It is interesting to know the firmness of a man who did what he believed was the right thing to do in spite of other`s views. Dixon suggest that that was the cause for he had being ignored , apart from jealous. It is an intriguing example of those who win the war while others earn the glory.