In June 1940, at the age of twenty, Bob Doe believed himself to be the worst pilot in his squadron. Just three months later he was a highly decorated hero of the Battle of Britain. This is the story of the pilot who, in his own estimation, was not promising material for a fighter pilot. He left school at fourteen and had none of the qualifications or background of his fellow officers. But he found his place in the Battle of Britain, shooting down fourteen enemy aircraft and sharing in two others (he was the third highest scoring pilot of the Battle). He was unusual in achieving these victories in both Spitfires and Hurricanes.

This biography, written by his daughter, a noted professional historian, tells the story of Bob’s remarkable career, including his time in Burma leading an Indian Air Force squadron against the Japanese. He was a modest man who spoke for many veterans when he asked that they should not be considered as heroes but remembered for what they did. This book celebrates Bob’s achievements and also those of the men who fought alongside him.

• Published to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the

  Battle of the Britain, 10 July – 31 October 2015.

• Fully authorised biography of Bob Doe, written by his

  daughter, with complete access to his papers and rare photographs never before

  published.

• Pre-publication endorsements from RICHARD OVERY: 'Among

  all the many stories of the Battle of Britain, Bob Doe's stands out. In this

  sensitve & well researched biography we see the modest man behind the

  fighter ace' and STEPHEN BUNGAY: 'Compelling & moving'.

• Author will feature on BBC Radio 4's WOMAN'S HOUR talking

  about her father during the Battle of Britain 75th anniversary.

• Anticipated article tie in placed with THE DAILY MAIL to appear during

  the anniversary.

• Reviews in the aviation interest press, national weeklies,

  national daily and Sunday newspapers, to include: Flypast, The Mail on Sunday

  and The Times, TLS and The Spectator.

• Author available for signings and talks