Greenhill Books Enemy Coast Ahead: The Illustrated Memoir of Dambuster Guy Gibson

The RAF attack on the Ruhr Dams in Germany in May 1943 has come down through history as one of the most famous exploits of the Second World War. That fame was reinforced by the popular postwar movie "The Dambusters", and by a series of books, especially Max Hastings' updated "Operation Chastise". But here is Wing CDR Guy Gibson's own account, published posthumously in 1946 and updated with notes and corrections. Much of the book recounts Gibson's early career with the RAF, straight out of school in the late 1930's and straight into the Second World War. This portion highlights the hijinks of young pilots flying dangerous missions with inadequate aircraft, with few expectations of surviving the war. It also captures Gibson's personal growth as a leader. The heart of the narrative is of course the raid on the Ruhr Dams, which will speak for itself. A nice selection of photographs is included in the text. Well recommended.

Reading the book for Historical value. Brave men!

While my dad was in hospital. I asked him if there was something he would like to read. He said Enemy Coast Ahead was his favorite book. I purchased it through Amazon Prime. He was thrilled and had red it in 2 days. Highly recommended.

An astonishing account from the man who led exceptional people in the RAF during WW2.

An engrossing account of the air was from the most famous pilot in his own words.