Compilation from issues 1-3 of Battlefields, according to front matter. Copyright 2010 according to front matter. Publication date according to Wikipedia. Printed in Canada. Design by Jason Ullmeyer.
Ken Harding (second pilot); Masher (co-pilot); Acker (rear gunner); Clive (wireless operator); Joe (navigator); Blue (front gunner); Morley (adjutant) [Uncle] [Adj]
Synopsis
Harding, brilliant at flight school but untested in combat, takes command of a bomber crew that needs only three more missions to complete its tour and be sent home to Australia. An inexperienced pilot makes them resentful and frightened, but while under attack he saves their lives by performing terrifying stunts with the Wellington bomber, converting them into enthusiastic supporters.
With the bomber ablaze from friendly fire, Harding puts out the flame with a dangerous power dive, then coaxes the aircraft back to safety with half the skin gone and the tail barely clinging to the airframe.
Ken Harding (command pilot); Masher (co-pilot); Acker (rear gunner); Clive (wireless operator); Joe (navigator); Blue (front gunner); Morley (adjutant) [Uncle] [Adj]; Wingco [Wong Commander McKenzie]
Synopsis
With Acker wounded, Masher unconscious, and the airplane badly damaged, Harding nurses the bomber back to the field, completing the crew's 30th mission, before dying of his own wounds. Masher and the Adjutant pack up Harding's things, making room for the next crew.