A Dictionary of Coastal Command, 1939–1945

This illustrated A-to-Z reference offers comprehensive information on the role of the Royal Air Force Coastal Command in WWII. Known as Kipper Fleet within the RAF, Coastal Command often lacked sufficient resources compared with other home commands, giving it its other nickname of the Cinderella Service. Its main role was to protect Britain's vital sea borne supply lines from the English coast to the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and Africa. Coastal Command also went on the offensive, particularly in the so-called Battle of the Barges in 1940 which helped deter Hitler from invading the UK, and in the Mediterranean and the Baltic, attacking German shipping. But Coastal Command is perhaps best known for the war against the U-boats, one that was eventually won. This fully illustrated volume tells the story of RAF Coastal Command, chronicling its gallantry, achievements, and losses, as well as its Victoria Crosses, aircraft, and much else.