First published to acclaim in 1992, this book deals with the exploits of Bomber Command during their tactical offensive against German industry in the Ruhr valley during World War Two. Tasked with flying out across the valley time and time again in a series of bombardments and offensives, scores of young pilots called upon humbling reserves of bravery to meet their objectives. The author begins by describing the roles that these pilots were expected to carry out as part of Bomber Command, before going on to define the landscape of the Ruhr area in detail, illustrating its great importance in terms of industrial output to the Germans. Statistics are included, detailing the number of bombers despatched, the number that actually made it to their targets and, quite poignantly, those that never arrived.

Illustrated throughout, the book offers a complete overview of this important episode, set within the wider historical context of the war against mainland Germany – a subject that is rarely dealt with in such depth, or with such attention to detail. Although costly, the Battle of the Ruhr was a success and played a significant part in the ending of the war in Europe. This book serves as a reminder of the epic contribution put forth by Bomber Command in this endeavour.