The History of RAF CRANWELL
By Gp Gapt EB Haslam
Signed by AVM Desmond Hughes CBE DSO DFC AFC
Signed on the title page by the author Gp Capt EB Haslam
Signed on the front end paper by
Air Vice-Marshal Desmond Hughes CBE DSO DFC** AFC
264 Squadron ~ Battle of Britain
Commandant RAF Cranwell 1970~1972
HMSO First edition 1982. 184 pages and well illustrated with photos and with informative annexes.
Fine condition hardback book in dark blue faux leather covers with gold titles and light blue end papers. Fine condition unclipped dustjacket. The book is clean, tight and bright, a lovely copy in all respects.a history
This concise history charts the remarkable development of RAF Cranwell, the Royal Air Force’s premier training establishment and the cradle of many of Britain’s finest aviators. Drawing on official records and personal recollections, the author traces Cranwell’s evolution from its origins as a Royal Naval Air Service training station during the First World War to its emergence as the RAF’s foremost officer training college.
The book highlights Cranwell’s central role in shaping generations of pilots, aircrew and leaders, while also exploring the daily routines, traditions and challenges of life at the college. Haslam balances institutional history with human stories, bringing to life the cadets, instructors and commanding officers who contributed to Cranwell’s distinguished reputation.
Air Vice-Marshal Desmond Hughes (1919-1992) was one of the RAF’s most distinguished night-fighter pilots. He joined the RAF in 1939 and flew with No. 264 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. Operating Defiant, Beaufighter and Mosquito fighters, Hughes became a highly successful night intruder and interceptor pilot, credited with destroying 18½ enemy aircraft, thirteen of them at night. His wartime achievements earned him the DFC and two Bars, together with the DSO. After the war he pursued a senior RAF career, commanding RAF Geilenkirchen, serving as Director of Air Staff Plans, and becoming Air Officer Commanding No. 18 Group. From 1970 to 1972 he was Commandant of RAF College Cranwell before ending his service as Senior Air Staff Officer, Near East Air Force, retiring in 1974.
‘The History of RAF Cranwell’ provides an overview of one of British aviation’s most important establishments (up to 1982) and is neatly signed by one of its distinguished Commandants. A perfect gift for any graduate of the RAF college.