CONSTANT VIGILANCE: THE RAF REGIMENT IN THE BURMA CAMPAIGN.

Barnsley, South Yorkshire: Pen & Sword Aviation, 2007. 302 pp, large 8vo (9 7/8" H). B&w photographs, b&w and colour maps. "A forgotten air force in a forgotten war. This history finally addresses in detail the exploits of the Royal Air Force's youngest Corps, the RAF Regiment, in the campaign in South-East Asia. A dedicated and specialist ground force for active defence of airfields, the Regiment played a vital and significant role in the two major battles for Burma. The struggle at Imphal ranks alongside Stalingrad and Alamein in its significance for the defeat of the Axis. Here, the Regiment patrolled the airstrips and jungle hills and ensured they were clear of Japanese intruders. In March 1945 the Regiment participated in the masterstroke of the Burma campaign; the thrust for, and capture of Meiktila. That the Regiment was able to carry out its tasks so effectively and efficiently despite inadequate numbers, outdated equipment and often with a significant proportion of the unit debilitated with tropical ailments, is a tribute to the diligence, tenacity, persistence and professionalism of its officers and airmen. The book draws on the operations record books, diaries and recollections of the men who served inthe RAF Regiment in South-East Asia Command. It is strongly supported by maps and diagrams and is illustrated with many hitherto unpublished photographs. Small area of very faint line indentations on free front endpaper, small bump at bottom corner of front board. Dust jacket has light edge wrinkling - mainly at top/bottom of spine, very faint line indentations on front and rear panels.. First Edition. Hard Cover. Very Good/Very Good-.