Observers and Navigators by WC Jeffrod, RAF Book Review

[tafh63]

This an excellent book on a topic about which not much is written. Most books about "wings" merely describe the insignia(s) under study, without delving into "purpose" or development of how it was issued, how individuals were trained to its standards, or its placement in the organizational structure. W/C Jefford, RAF (Ret'd) does all this, and then some. While the main focus is on the evolution of the duties, training and status of the "Observer" and "Navigator" in the RAF, as well as its predecessors-RFC/RNAS, the author does expound quite a bit on the other flying brevets.

I highly recommend this book, especially the 2nd edition, to anyone interested in military aviation, the RAF and its corresponding organizational history and development. It is a well written work and worth reading.