Whether you are interested in the career of an individual air-man or woman from the British forces, or researching medals awarded to a pilot or crew member, or just want to know more about a particular squadron or operation, this book will point you in the right direction.
Assuming that the reader has no prior knowledge of the air force, its history or organization, Phil Tomaselli explains which records survive, where they can be found and how they can help you in your research. He also recommends resources available online as well as books and memoirs.
Each era in air force history is described, from the pioneering days of early aviation and the formation of the Royal Flying Corps in the First World War to the creation of the Royal Air Force, its operations during the Second World War and its postwar development. The author explains the evolving organization of the air force in each period. He also provides pointers and examples which should help researchers find the records of units and bases that individuals served in.
Contents:
1. The Beginnings
2. The Royal Flying Corps in the First World War
3. The Royal Naval Air Service in the First World War
4. The Creation of the RAF
5. The RAF Between the Wars
6. The Second World War: Main RAF Commands
7. Other Records for the Second World War
8. The RAF After 1945
9. Medals, Casualties and Courts Martial
Appendix 1. Ranks in the RFC/RNAS/RAF
Appendix 2. Royal Flying Corps, Order of Battle
Appendix 3. RNAS, Order of Battle, 31 March 1918
Appendix 4. RAF, Order of Battle in France, 11 November 1918
Appendix 5. Fighter Command, Order of Battle, July 1940 (The Battle of Britain)
Appendix 6. Bomber Command, Order of Battle, May 1942
Appendix 7. AIR Papers at the PRO which may Contain Information Useful to Family
Historians
Appendix 8. Useful Books
Appendix 9. Other Useful Archives, Collections and Sources
Appendix 10. Magazines and Periodicals
Appendix 11. Websites
Appendix 12. RAF Abbreviations
Index
