Hank Adlam began his naval flying career in 1941, his first operational posting was to the newly formed No. 890 Squadron. The Squadron's first operational role was to protect convoy sailing from New York and bound for Greenrock. Their major task was to protect the ship's squadron of Fairey Swordfish anti-submarine aircraft and to destroy any long range Luftwaffe Fw Condor reconnaissance patrols that were transmitting convoy positions to the waiting U-boat wolf packs. During this first operational voyage he lost his best friend who was shot down. Later, on this same initiation to front-line operational flying, Hank was forced to ditch into gale-torn Atlantic Ocean. In the autumn of 1942, 890 squadron joined the fleet carrier HMS illustrious, again involving convoy protection. During one patrol he helped destroy an enemy Blohm und Voss Bv 138 at Salerno. 1944 saw squadron pilots dispatched aboard HMS London and then they briefly joined HMS Atheling, to provide air cover for a strong fleet attacking Japanese shipping around the Andaman Islands. When 890 was disbanded he joined 1839 Squadron flying the new Grumman Hellcat. AUTHOR: Henry ?Hank? Adlam was educated at Harrow School. After his wartime Naval service he, like many demobbed personnel, tried his hand at many occupations and led an intriguing civilian life, another book in the making. He is a well-known Bristol character and, having lectured for some years at the University, frequently appears in the local media. He is a sprightly 85 years old and still retains the wicked sense of humour that is frequently demonstrated in this book. ILLUSTRATIONS 16 pages b/w photographs *
