Night Hawk

More about the book

Karel Kuttelwascher was one of the RAF’s top fighter aces and its most distinguished night fighter pilot. While he was a celebrated hero during the war, his name has faded from memory. This biography presents his full story for the first time, avoiding the novelistic embellishments often found in similar accounts. The narrative is grounded in verifiable facts, with every quote being authentic and supported by documentary sources. Although combat reports are not quoted due to their stylized nature, the book ensures accuracy in dates, times, weather references, and actions taken. While primarily a biography of Kuttelwascher, the work also highlights the significant contributions of Czech airmen during the war—an underexplored topic in English literature. It delves into the night intruder operations, a facet of warfare that has not received adequate recognition. This narrative is essential, as even those familiar with Kuttelwascher's legacy may not fully grasp the extent of his achievements. As noted by Wing Commander Pat Hancock, many were unaware of Kuttelwascher's fame. Written in the 1980s, this account captures vital memories and source material before they were lost, as many of Kuttelwascher's contemporaries have since passed away, leaving behind a legacy that deserves to be remembered.