SPITFIRE OFFENSIVE

Inscribed and signed on the title page by Ralph Sampson

‘ …… I hope you enjoy the book.
My best wishes and kindest regards
Keep in touch
Ralph Sampson’
(Sampson’s personal address label)

Published by Grub Street 1994. First edition. 182 pages plus photographs. Pilot signed Spitfire offensive

Fine condition hardback book and Fine condition unclipped dustjacket. Clean, tight and bright.

Foreword by Air Cdre Pete Brothers to whom Sampson has dedicated his book. Pilot signed Spitfire offensive

Ralph ‘Sammy’ Sampson, in co-operation with aviation historian Norman Franks, offers a graphic account of his three years flying Spitfires on offensive operations over France during World War II.  

He commenced flying with 602 Squadron under Paddy Finucane and participated in the Dieppe operation before being promoted to command flights, squadrons and then a Spitfire Wing. He has covered in detail his period commanding the Free French Wing, of which little has been recorded in Britain. His recollections of people and events provide an insight into the life of a wartime fighter pilot who played international rugby for Scotland both before and after the war.

Air Commodore Peter Brothers said of him: “As a squadron commander and wing leader, (he was) the most exciting leader on offensive operations I had the privilege to serve with.”

A lovely copy of a scarce signed book.