Recollections of an Airman. Illustrated

Recollections of an Airman by Louis Arbon Strange is a fascinating memoir that captures the daring, innovation, and chaos of early military aviation during World War I. First published in 1933, the book recounts Strange’s extraordinary career as a pilot and commander in the Royal Flying Corps and later the Royal Air Force.Strange was one of the earliest British aviators, known for his courage, ingenuity, and unconventional flying style. His memoir details everything from the rudimentary days of pre-war flying to the rapid evolution of aerial combat during the Great War. With humor and honesty, he shares stories of hair-raising missions, technical improvisations, near-death experiences, and the strange camaraderie among airmen.The book offers insight into not just the machines and missions, but also the mindset of early aviators—men who flew without parachutes in fragile aircraft, relying on instinct and sheer nerve. Strange’s accounts are filled with vivid detail and personality, painting a human portrait of both war and the pioneering spirit of flight.Recollections of an Airman stands as a classic in aviation literature—an essential read for anyone interested in the origins of air combat, personal wartime stories, and the fearless individuals who helped shape aerial history.