Douglas Bader: A Biography of the Legendary World War II Fighter Pilot

by John Frayn Turner

Douglas Bader was a legend in his lifetime and remains one today 100 years after his birth. A charismatic leader and fearless pilot, he refused to let his severe disability (loss of both legs in a flying accident) ground him. He fought the authorities as ruthless as he did the enemy and not only managed to return to the front line but became a top scoring ace. His innovative tactics (The Big Wing) ensured his promotion and he led a key group of squadrons during the dark days of the Battle of Britain.

His luck ran out when he was shot down and captured; he only escaped his burning fighter by cutting away one of his artificial legs.

As a POW he was a thorn in the Germans side and he was sent to Colditz Castle.

As this perceptive book reveals Bader, the hero, was at times a difficult overbearing man, no doubt in part due to the pain he suffered. But his strengths far outweighed his weaknesses and his place in the annuals of British history is secure.

This is a timely republication of an important biography.

Genres: History

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

John Frayn Turner is a British author specializing in military history.

Reviews

[Ian Hallam · Rating 3 out of 5]

The biography of Douglas Bader throughout his early years flying, then the aftermath of his crash in which he lost both legs. Following the lead up to WWII Douglas was allowed to re enlist in the Royal Air Force and the book continues with his exploits inn WWII, his marriage to Thelma and there travels after the war ended.

[Roy A. Hughes · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a different biography. There is a large section given over to the exploits of Bader's squadron during the Battle of Britain, even after Bader had left the particular fight, which threw little light on the man himself. However, over all the book is written with obvious affection for Douglas Bader who was certainly a remarkable man