Reach for the Sky

by Paul Brickhill
Category: "Autobiographies, Memoirs and Biographies"
Pages:312
Year of Publication:1954
Date Added:07/25/2021
Date Read:07/24/2023
Notes:Subtitle:The Story of Douglas Bader, Legless Ace of the Battle of Britain

Bader was in the British Air Force in the 1930s when an unauthorized stunt resulted in a crash the caused him to lose both his legs. He learned to walk on artificial limbs and also to fly again. When WWII began, he proved he could fly and became a fighter pilot. His aggressiveness, along with creative tactics, soon won him promotions as a flight leader during the Battle of Britain. After the battle, in a sortie over France, he was shot down and captured. He spend the next three- plus years in prison camps, often trying to escape. After the war, he took a position with Shell and flew around the world for the company. He also became a encourager of others who lost limbs.
My Rating: 6

Reviews for Reach for the Sky

Review - Reach for the Sky

Interesting story, although I'm pretty sure Bader himself was a jerk—obnoxious, self-centered, willing to take risks that endangered others. Still, it's that kind of man, one without inhibitions, who manages to be "great" if the right opportunity comes along.

Reviewed by Roger on 2023-07-24 18:45:58

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