Casemate UK Slybirds - A Photographic Odyssey of the 353rd Fighter Group During the Second World War

[Julien]

Slybirds

A Photographic Odyssey of the 353rd Fighter Group During the Second World War

Fighting High Publishing - Via Casemate UK

 

 

With their black and yellow chequered markings the 353rd Fighter Group was one of the Eighth's more colourful groups. They were assigned to the Eighth Air Force on 7 June 1943. The group flew P-47 Thunderbolts, and from October 1944, P-51 Mustangs; as escorts for bombing missions across occupied Europe, and to strafe targets on the ground. Tactical missions included strafing and dive-bombing targets during the Allied invasion of Normandy, and also during the airborne assault of Holland. For these latter missions, between 17 and 23 September 1944, the Group was awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation .They were based first at Goxhill, then Metfield and finally Raydon. 

 

The group consisted of;

 

• 350th Fighter Squadron
• 351st Fighter Squadron 
• 352nd Fighter Squadron
• Headquarters (353rd Fighter Group)
• 2125th Engineer Fire Fighting Platoon

 

The book features over 450 photographs, many unpublished, and some in colour. It features not only the Aircraft, pilots and ground crew, but how they lived, spent their free time, and even pets they had. The book shows aerial victories, aces, and those pilots who were shot down. There is a list of POWs and a roll of honour for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. The book has been written by renowned Eighth Air Force Historian Graham Cross and is A4 Landscape in format with a quality printed feel. . 

 

 

Conclusion.

The book gives a comprehensive look at the 353rd Group, and a unique look at the men and machines which made up this formidable fighting force, Highly recommended

 

 

 

Review sample courtesy of