Pathfinder by Air Vice-Marshal DCT Bennett: 1960 Paperback

Author: Air Vice-Marshal DCT Bennett CB, CBE, DSO

Publisher: 1960, Panther Books

Pagination: 208

Format: Paperback

Condition: Very good, with some shelf wear.

A superb and compelling book written by the man who created the Pathfinder Force. If that wasn't enough he was also at the forefront of the creation of the United Nations, his wish being that the world should live in peace. The author was obviously a great man and his work during the war should have made him a family name and earned him a knighthood. Sadly, like Park and Dowding he seems to have missed out.

This book chronicles the author's flying career, beginning in civil aviation, where he broke a number of world records, before moving on to the RAF. Bennett fought hard to create what was to become the Pathfinders and with his guidance it went on to become a legend. He tells his story, pulling no punches, in an informative and thought provoking manner. He describes his trials and tribulations in building the force and the technical and tactical developments that took place. Bennett was the man who defended the superb Mosquito, which he was told could not be flown in the dark.

Unfortunately you can feel his sense of disappointment at the way things have worked out since the war. It's a pity to see the bitterness in such a great man, felt so badly let down by others. This is a must read for anyone interested in the history of air war.