The Battle of France

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Peter Cornwell recounts the greatest air battle of World War II, which unfolded over north-western Europe for six harrowing weeks in 1940, beginning in September 1939 with the deployment of British Air Forces in France. Through the perspective of Flying Officer Edward Hall, Adjutant of No. 73 Squadron, the narrative captures the Phoney War, highlighting the experiences of RAF fighter squadrons predominantly flying Hurricanes, while the Blenheim and Battle crews faced the majority of casualties. The British Air Forces fought a rearguard action, retreating as the German panzers advanced, a story often overshadowed by the subsequent Battle of Britain. Cornwell sheds light on the costly Battle of France, detailing the daily events and losses endured by six nations: Britain, France, Holland, Belgium, Germany, and Italy. The RAF suffered significant losses, with over 1,000 aircraft downed, while the Luftwaffe faced even greater losses exceeding 1,800 aircraft. The RAF's disadvantage of operating on foreign soil resulted in many men becoming prisoners of war. Between September 3, 1939, and June 24, 1940, the RAF lost 1,127 airmen, with 415 making the ultimate sacrifice. Their names and memorials are documented to honor their memory.