'Sammy' Sampson, in co-operation with aviation historian Norman Franks, has written a graphic account of his three years flying Spitfires on offensive ops over France. He has covered in detail his period commanding the Free French Wing, of which little has been recorded in Britain. His story is told with pace, spice and honesty, and his recollections of people and events provide a refreshing insight into the life of a wartime fighter pilot who previously played rugby for Scotland. He now lives in Benenden, Kent.

Reviews

'From kilt to cockpit, this is a thoroughly entertaining fighter pilot's memoir, a story told in most readable style, and another excellent reason for buying the book is that all of Sammy Sampson's royalties go to The RAF Benevolent Fund.' Legion

'A graphic account of Spitfire operations over France...an interesting insight into the air war that turned the tide in the Allies' favour.' Flypast

'This memoir has much to recommend it and set it apart from the mass of flying stories....Most fascinating of all, it presents a vivid portrait of life and death in the RAF's Free French Fighter Wing.' Eastern Daily Press

'Making no concessions to maiden aunts - Wing Commander Ralph William Frazer Sampson uses choice language to re-live the combats, passions and everyday ups and downs of a Spitfire pilot from 1942 until 1945.' Edward Bishop in The Field

'Yet another Grub Street success. Well worth reading, told with verve and an intensity that portrays the subject's character to the full.' Aviation News