Winged Chariot: A Complete Account of the RAF's Support Role During the Audacious Command Raid on St Nazaire, March 1942

By: Peter Lush

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Synopsis: An impeccably researched examination of the role the RAF played during this epic World War II raid in German-occupied France. In what has been described as &“the greatest raid of them all,&” Operation Chariot saw heavy destruction of the enemy-occupied port of St. Nazaire by British forces. With focus on the planning and actions of the operation, Peter Lush explores the three functions carried out by the RAF: the sweeping of the Bay of Biscay, the diversionary raid, and protecting the withdrawing survivors. He also outlines the importance of the photographic Reconnaissance Unit to the raid and the development of the Bomber and Coastal Commands particularly though the sorties flown by Coastal Command two days before the attack started. The book also highlights the tragedy that occurred for the RAF, when diversionary raids were carried out in impossible conditions; resulting in the loss of aircraft across Yorkshire and in the Channel. Lush examines whether this could have been prevented if the RAF had not been marginalized during the planning process of Operation Chariot. This timely and ultimate account, written by an expert who has collated over forty years worth of research, is an essential work for all those interested in military aviation, particularly during the Second World War.&“Highly recommended for anyone interested in learning more about the history of World War II, and the unsung heroes.&” —IPMS/USA