I have many books on my shelf which I regard as being essential, most of which I make reference to on a regular basis – Theo Boiten’s Nachtjagd War Diaries being a case in point, as a valuable source of information.
But the outstanding book in my collection is probably little known; it’s “The Trenches in the Sky” by Dan Conway DFC. Dan was a 467 squadron pilot in the intense bombing campaign period of late 1943 into 1944 when the Battle of Berlin was a predominant action. But what makes this book especially valuable is that Dan concentrates more on the human aspect of the air war, including training. He covers his initial training in Australia, the embarkation depots and passage to England, ultimately going to the Personnel, Despatch and Reception Centre at Bournemouth.
His chapters then deal with such points as the weather and other natural hazards from a pilot’s point of view. He resumes with training at AFU including the BAT School, then to OTU and HCU and ultimately the squadron. The next two chapters cover amongst other aspects methods of evading searchlights, enemy fighters, the corkscrew and the “mystery of the Schrage musik” fighter. Subsequent chapters detail “Ops on, - a typical 24 hours”, preparation and briefing, take off, the enemy coast, enemy territory, landing etc followed by accounts of four his crews’ ops.
Further chapters give views on morale, the price paid, thoughts on losses, the tragedy of the missing. When tour expired Dan went to 27 OTU at Lichfield as an instructor, 30 OTU Hixon and finally No. 7 Flying Instructor’s School, Upavon. He finishes with his story of his time post-war in Transport Command, his journey home and appendices about Schrage musik guns, an analysis of the Battle of Berlin and his views on Sir Arthur Harris.
Finding this book was a God-send at a time in my research when I’d started to lose my way. The Trenches in the Sky put me firmly back on track, taught me so much about the area that particularly fascinates me – the human element in flying during training and operationally, and remains my constant “bible” if I need to know anything. I can’t recommend it highly enough! And I see copies are available from Abe books for a tenner or so should anyone wish to read this excellent personal account.
Max
