Infringing neutrality : the RAF in Switzerland 1940-1945
Switzerland, that bastion of neutrality, was in an awkward position during the Second World War. Indeed, despite being neutral, it had to compromise on many counts with powerful belligerents, be they Axis or Allied nations. Switzerland became a safe haven for many, including warring aircrew who, willingly or not, used Swiss airspace as a convenient route. For the RAF, Swiss airspace was often just a shortcut when flying over enemy-held territory. Its aeroplanes often crashed there after being damaged by Axis defences over occupied Europe. Furthermore, Swiss anti-aircraft always intervened against air violations. All this resulted in emergencies for the Allied aircrew who chose to head for Switzerland to avoid PoW camps. Roger Anthoine has researched the RAF's incursions into Swiss airspace, the aircraft that landed or bombed there, and the crews who made for Switzerland as a safe haven from occupied Europe. From daring escapes to miraculous stories of survival after crash landings, as well as the tragedies of war, this is a gripping read, lavishly illustrated with many rare photographs. Roger Anthoine lives near Geneva. A Second World War veteran and post-war pilot, he is the acknowledged expert on the Swiss part in the air war over Europe. This is his second book on the subject, the first covering the 'walking evaders', airmen who entered Swiss borders to return to England. The final volume of his trilogy will be the USAAF and Switzerland.--page 4 of cover
Libro a stampa, English, 2006
Tempus, Stroud, 2006