Rear Gunner Pathfinder

by Ron Smith

A Bomber Command book with a difference - the story of the air war over Germany as seen from the small Perspex bubble of a 'Tail-End Charlie' rear gunner in a Lancaster. Flying initially with 626 squadron, and later 156 Pathfinder squadron, Ron Smith flew 65 operations and he has recorded them with the intensity brought on by the isolation of being cocooned in his lonely gun turret.

Genres: World War II, History

Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for an uplifting read on the highs of serving as WW2 bomber aircrew perhaps look elsewhere. However if you want a candid and honest account of the struggle of the author and thousands like him definitely read this book. Ron Smith may not be a natural writer but his style is utterly unpretentious. You get the feeling he wrote this largely for his own therapy and not to please or entertain the reader. It’s for this reason I can’t help admiring him and this book.

[Nicholas Rancourt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story but bad writing with a lot of mistakes. I still recommend it to anyone who's into military aviation, as the author still gives an interesting viewpoint.

[Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book. A very beautifully written book. A book that stays with you once finished.

[Ang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whilst some books of this period are perhaps more objective, I fully appreciate Mr. Smith's subjective open hearted and honest account of his experiences as a rear gunner, Lancasters RAF, during WWII. An incredible, real insight through the eyes of a sensitive individual. Though not intended for me, I felt like the 'someone' in Mr. Smith's dedication.