Why this particular topic? Why the incredible detail, the result of such painstaking research? Because, I am convinced, that the subject is a part of the central core of Canadian history. In the two decades between the World Wars, Canada developed greatly, building upon the sense of solidarity gained in the first of these conflicts. Much of this was facilitated by the development of technology, of which aviation was a major part. Oddly enough, for such a laisser faire society it was the Canadian government that played a leading role in this, and the RCAF and its predecessors was its instrument. Not only did the “bush pilots in uniform” pioneer myriad aspects of aviation in all parts of Canada, but despite a miniscule budget and a suspicious parliament and populace they maintained the nucleus of a military air arm which slowly developed into the framework of the wartime RCAF. But, whatever honor is due to the men (and it is great), it is the aircraft that provide the visual impact and the structure of the narrative. An incredible number of types, suitable and unsuitable, were flown and maintained under all manner of conditions and a knowledge of them is essential for the appreciation of both the impact and the substance of the subject. When this knowledge is presented in such a totality of detail and sequentiality as here, no more is required. The same can be said for the massive coverage of paint schemes and markings. This merits more than the usual patronizing reference to its value for the “modeling fraternity” as well as to artists and illustrators. Its development and evolution is part and parcel of the story – a visual description of the conflicting forces of official standards and small groups of men and machines in which the former must interpret those standards as best they might. – From the Foreword by writer, historian, author Carl Vincent Voted Book of the Month when reviewed in Aeroplane Monthly (August 2011). Numerous useful appendices. Fully indexed.

Early Canadian Military Aircraft: Acquisitions, Dispositions, Colour Schemes & Markings: Volume 1: Aircraft taken on strength through 1920

History

GRIFFIN, JOHN

Stachiw, Anthony

Historical Study & Educational Resources

Aviaeology

The Handley Page Halifax, along with the Avro Lancaster and the Short Stirling, was one of the three heavy bombers employed by The Royal Air Force Bomber Command in its aerial offensive against the Axis in W.W.II. Although overshadowed by the legendary Lancaster, the Halifax played a major role in the night bombing campaign, in antisubmarine operations, meteorological reconnaissance, transport, and towing gliders in airborne operations. In all, over 6,000 Halifax aircraft were produced and these were flown in over 75,000 missions. It served from 1941 until finally retired in 1952. At one time during their service in the RAF Bomber Command all 15 RCAF Bomber Squadrons and three Heavy Conversion Units were equipped with the Halifax, several operating only the Halifax. Although some squadrons began reequipping with the Lancaster beginning in late 1943, the Halifax was the mainstay of these squadrons from 1942 to the end of the war in night bombing and mine laying operations. This book documents the development of the Halifax aircraft from its inception during the expansion of the RAF Bomber Command in the late 1930s until production ended in 1946. Its service with RCAF 6 Group of Bomber Command, and its operations with all 15 RCAF Squadrons is related, with representative photographs. A complete description of each version of the aircraft is presented, along with accurate multi-view line drawings and photographs. The aircraft defensive and offensive armament is described as well as color schemes and markings. Finally, a chapter is dedicated to modeling the Halifax with descriptions of kits and decal markings that have been produced. This book will be a worthy addition to the collection of the historian, to the modeler and for those who served in the Halifax squadrons or their families.

Handley Page Halifax (In Canadian Service Aircraft No. 3)

Military

Vanwell Publishing Ltd.

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