Their Finest Hour

Their Finest Hour tells the fascinating stories of six of Churchill's 'Few', each of whom played an important part in the Battle of Britain. Celebrated and much respected on their own squadrons, all have since faded into obscurity. Their achievements, against all odds, and the fortunes of their comrades-in-arms, many of whom died during the Battle, are told here in detail, some for the first time.Featured stories include that of Flying Officer Reginald Peacock DFC, the only Blenheim pilot of the Second World War to become a fighter ace; Squadron Leader Robert Reid, who flew throughout the Battle of Britain, having a hand in the destruction of three Bf 109s, damaging of two more; and fighter-ace r Douglas Cyril Winter, who flew Spitfires during the defence of the Dunkirk Beaches, before taking on the Luftwaffe in the skies over Southern England. The story of Dunkirk and Battle of Britain ace, Squadron Leader 'Gil' Gilbert is also included, as it that of No. 303 Squadron's Flight Lieutenant Jan Kowalski, DFC, VM, KW* and Battle of France and Battle of Britain hero Sergeant, Leonard Jowitt, who earned a Mention-in-Despatches for his gallantry in France.
The combined efforts of the six pilots who form the subject of this title, saw nearly twenty enemy aircraft damaged or destroyed, earning them a fistful of gallantry awards. These stories offer insights into this dynamic period of aviation history. Recorded here, they serve as poignant reminders of the efforts of the 'Few' and the contributions that they made to the Allied effort during a pivotal moment in the Second World War.