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by Donald McNaughton (Author)
A biographical and social history of Bomber Command crews on operations at the height of the WW2 bomber offensive explored through the experiences of a surviving crew.
A tale of Australians and Brits joining the RAAF and RAF and coming together to fly a tour of operations over Nazi occupied Europe and having the skills and luck to survive a full tour, including eight trips to Berlin.
The story follows the journey of a young Pommie gunner, Roy, the author's father, through volunteering for the RAF, training, joining a crew and then flying with 207 RAF Lancaster squadron. The origins and experiences of the other Aussie and Brit crew members are explored during the same timeframe. Led by an Aussie pilot, Vic Trimble, the crew transfer in mid tour to 463 RAAF Lancaster squadron. The lives of aircrew on a Bomber Command squadron during 1943/44 are explored. The Trimble crew survive numerous fighter attacks and accidents and with their tour of operations completed, move on to training roles and life after combat.
The experiences and fates of the crew are contrasted with those of RAF and RAAF aircrew mates who were mostly not so lucky. The life of a civilian, Roy's future wife, explores the trials and tribulations of wartime England.
The experience of flying with an Australian squadron results in the Pommie gunner and his young family emigrating to Australia post war as 10 pound Poms. The life of immigrant "Pommie Bastards" in 1960's Australia and their acceptance, Aussie style, is explored through the experiences of Roy and his family through the eyes of the author.
This biography shows that Roy was indeed a "Lucky Pommie Bastard"
