War Amongst the Clouds

Embark on a gripping journey through the skies with 'War Amongst the Clouds', a powerful memoir by AVM Hugh Granville White that chronicles the extraordinary tale of a young pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. This meticulously crafted hardback edition, measuring 148 x 210 mm and spanning 224 pages, was published on July 26, 2019, by Grub Street. It offers an authentic glimpse into the harrowing experiences and triumphs of aerial warfare, as Hugh White details his survival against insurmountable odds. Piloting the F.E.2D Scout and later the awe-inspiring S.E.5a, Britain’s premier fighter aircraft of the era, White’s narrative is rich with personal anecdotes and the realities of combat. Witness the relentless courage, skill, and sheer luck required for success, highlighted by thrilling escapades like a dramatic mid-air collision. This account doesn’t just celebrate bravery; it also reflects on the challenges faced by young aviators during this turbulent period. The story continues through the eyes of Hugh's younger son, Christopher, who recounts his father’s illustrious RAF career from India in the 1920s to his eventual rise as an air vice-marshal in 1955. Featuring a foreword by Sir Frederick Sowrey, this book serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who soared amidst the clouds of war. Perfect for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone captivated by wartime exploits, 'War Amongst the Clouds' is an essential addition to your collection.

Author: AVM Hugh Granville White Publisher: Grub Street
Bind: hardback
Dimensions: 148 x 210 mm
Pages: 224
Publication Date: 26-07-2019

his is a story written by a young man who trained as a pilot, and then flew with the Royal Flying Corps in France during the First World War, eventually to become an ace. It is one of survival against the odds at a time when the conduct of air operations depended so much on individual skills, innovation, courage - and luck. Hugh White flew F.E.2D Scout aircraft as a reconnaissance patrol pilot and later in the war was promoted to squadron leader of squadrons flying the S.E.5a which was Britain’s best fighter aircraft at the time. During the two years of flying, he experienced and survived a series of escapades including a dramatic mid-air collision with the enemy. Told by Hugh in his own words, he gives a unique insight into war in the air. With the break-up of his squadron and being reduced to a substantive rank - simply because of his young age, Hugh’s writing ends in 1919. From this point, the story is continued by his younger son Christopher. He describes Hugh’s life and RAF career from flying in India during the 1920s through the Second World War until his retirement as an air vice-marshal in 1955. This book includes a foreword by Sir Frederick Sowrey (Hugh’s nephew) which puts Hugh White’s early wartime service into context. It is a timely reminder, following the centenary of the end of the First World War, of the difficulties that young pilots faced at the time. A must-read for those interested in wartime exploits.