Discover the captivating tale of the Halton Boys, a remarkable account of the RAF Halton Apprenticeship Scheme, cherished by those who proudly identify as 'Trenchard Brats'. This hardback edition, authored by Sean Feast and published by Grub Street, delves into the lives of approximately 50,000 young boys who embarked on a transformative journey. The dimensions of 156 x 234 mm and 192 pages ensure a thorough and visually appealing reading experience. Learn about the innovative apprenticeship model introduced by MRAF Hugh Trenchard, which allowed boys from diverse backgrounds to gain technical skills, preparing them not only for their roles in the RAF but also for life beyond. The book highlights the remarkable achievements of these apprentices, with 17 winning the prestigious Sword of Honour and over 1,200 commissioned into esteemed positions, including Air Rank. With poignant stories from the Battle of Britain to the legendary Dams Raid, this edition offers a glimpse into the valor and sacrifice of the Halton Boys. Perfect for history enthusiasts and aviation lovers alike, this book encapsulates the spirit of determination and excellence that defined a generation. Immerse yourself in this essential read for anyone interested in military history, the Royal Air Force, and the extraordinary legacy of the Halton Boys. Don't miss your chance to own this inspiring narrative, available for fast delivery to your doorstep.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 156 x 234 mm
Pages: 192
Bind: hardback
Author: Sean Feast Publisher: Grub Street
Publication Date: 24-09-2020

This is the story of Halton told through and by the boys who were there and who are still proud to be called ‘Trenchard Brats’. The RAF Halton Apprenticeship Scheme has a deserved reputation for excellence. The brainchild of MRAF Hugh Trenchard, the founder of the Royal Air Force, it took the ‘traditional’ idea of an apprenticeship and interpreted it in a novel way. It allowed teenage boys from any social background or geography to learn a technical trade that would equip them for their future lives, within and beyond the RAF. It also gave the best an opportunity to become pilots and break into the once public-school-dominated officer class. Of the 50,000 boys trained as apprentices, seventeen won the Sword of Honour at Cranwell, and more than 1,200 were commissioned with 110 achieving Air Rank. Eighteen have been knighted, with well over 1,000 others being honoured at various levels of state. More than a hundred Halton Boys served as pilots in the Battle of Britain (and many more as airframe/engine fitters and armourers), including the mercurial Don Finlay, the former Olympic hurdler. Others like Gerry Blacklock and Pat Connolly flew bombers on perilous missions over Western Europe or took part in the famous ‘Dams’ Raid. Then there were the three men murdered for their part in the Great Escape, and those who battled and survived years as prisoners of the Japanese in the Far East. In the jet era, ex-apprentice Graham Hulse became an ‘ace’ in Korea, serving with a