Al Deere Wartime Fighter Pilot, Peacetime Commander : The Authorised Biography

After having joined the RAF in 1937, New Zealander Al Deere was in the thick of the action right from the start of World War II, serving with distinction over France and Dunkirk in May and June 1940 against the dreaded Messerschmitts.

He survived a crash-landing during a head-on attack and helped to defend London and the south-east during the Battle of Britain effecting numerous escapes in tight combat situations.

He went on to command a flight in 602 Squadron, to lecture in America, to command RAF Kenley, Biggin Hill and then to lead the 145 French Wing in France before becoming Wing Commander, Plans with 84 Group.

Post-war, he took up many more significant postings including commander of North Weald, and Aide de Camp to HM the Queen.

If it could be said that he had a "good war", he enjoyed an ever better peace.

The author had the full co-operation of family, friends and colleagues when researching the source material to write this biography.

It includes many of Deere's letters and papers on the tactics and strategy of combat, and his previously unpublished story, "Escape".