011436 - DROPPING HOPE FROM THE SKY: No 299 Squadron Operations 1944-46

By Steve C Smith

Formed in November 1943 as a special duties squadron in 38 Group, No. 299 Squadron became operational in April 1944 dropping SOE agents. During the Normandy landings on and after D-Day, the squadron delivered paratroopers, and then Horsa gliders, towed across the English Channel by the squadron’s Short Stirlings.

The squadron continued operations with resupply drops until 10 June 1944, when it returned to SOE duties. In September 1944 299 Squadron again air-towed Horsa gliders for the Arnhem landing (the ‘Market’ element of Operation Market Garden), and the Rhine crossing (Operation Varsity). It was also involved in supply-dropping to resistance forces in Norway until the end of the war. After the end of the Second World War the squadron disbanded at RAF Shepherds Grove, Suffolk on 15 February 1946.

Steve C. Smith, whose numerous books on wartime air operations also include histories of 218 ‘Gold Coast’, 623 and 195 Squadrons, turns his attention to the relatively brief period in which 299 was operational. Its operations were unsung, but every bit as vital to the war effort as those of the Main Force bomber squadrons. As ever, his engaging narrative is complemented by numerous photographs, maps and tables of data.

This book is a fitting tribute to those who served with No. 299 Squadron, and especially the airmen who never returned from their ops.

NB:  This is a print on demand item.  I will try and keep a few in stock but please be aware that delivery may take 3/4 weeks.