Dowding's Despatch: The 1941 Battle of Britain Narrative Examined and Explained

by Andy Saunders

In September 1946, the London Gazette published a dispatch from Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh C T Dowding that was titled simply: The Battle of Britain. Written and submitted to the Air Ministry in 1941, this document became the very framework for the accepted Battle of Britain narrative which has been established across the following eighty years. Set out by the leader of the 'Few' himself, its authoritative tone could surely be considered a definitive outline of the battle, how it was fought and the eventual outcome. It even retrospectively set the dates for the commencement and conclusion of the campaign. In this work, Andy Saunders takes a critical look at Dowding's dispatch and analyses the facts and details contained in that important document. He also puts 'flesh on the bones' of the matters that the former commander-in-chief of RAF Fighter Command outlines, adding intriguing historical detail and perspective to the 1946 publication. Additionally, Andy looks at the behind-the-scenes machinations at the highest levels of government and Air Ministry before the dispatch finally saw the light of day. As a historical document, Dowding's London Gazette dispatch is worthy of the critical analysis and factual expansion which the author provides in what is a uniquely different look at the Battle of Britain, with illustrations throughout.

192 pages, Hardcover

Published October 22, 2021

Reviews

[HistoryBookChat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dowding's report was written in 1941. Now 80 years on Battle of Britain historian Andy Saunders examines it, producing a fascinating read.
The author adds a lot of interesting facts and information to Dowding's own points, while also correcting any errors, as well as busting a few myths.
Anyone with an interest in the battle and the RAF during the Second World War, should definitely read this book.
Highly recommended.