Wings Over Italy: The Story of Flight Sergeant Dennis Varey and 260 Squadron from El Alamein to the Liberation of Europe

[Edward]

Thanks Ed

Wings Over Italy: The Story of Flight Sergeant Dennis Varey and 260 Squadron from El Alamein to the Liberation of Europe
(Air World - an imprint of Pen & Sword Books - 31 August 2025) - UK
(Air World - an imprint of Pen & Sword Books - 30 October 2025) - US
by Paul L Dawson
256 pages w/ 16 b&w photos - hardcover
£17.50 - Introductory Offer
£25.00 - UK
$44.95 - US

"In October 1941, 19-year-old Dennis Varey volunteered for the RAF, despite being in a reserved occupation as an engineer. The bombing of his hometown had pushed him to fight back. After basic training, he became an Observer in December 1941, and by June 1942, he was accepted for pilot training under the Empire Air Training Scheme. He trained in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), then moved to Cairo before joining the Italian campaign. Dennis participated in Operation Dragoon, the invasion of Southern France, in 1944.

As the Allied forces struggled in Normandy, Dennis flew sorties to support the landings, providing air cover and ground attacks. Promoted to Flight Sergeant, he continued flying over Italy, Crete, and the Balkans until he was shot down by a Messerschmitt Bf 109. Wounded and captured, Dennis escaped captivity and returned to his unit, later being posted home to train future pilots.

This book recounts the story of Dennis and his comrades in 260 Squadron, whose multi-national crew supported key battles across North Africa and Europe. Using letters, diaries, and first-hand accounts, it highlights the sacrifices of these young men, many of whom never returned or were forever changed by their experiences."

The Author
Paul L. Dawson BSc Hons MA, MIFA, FINS, is a historian, field archaeologist and author who has written more than twenty books, his specialty being the French Army of the Napoleonic Wars. As well as speaking French and having an in-depth knowledge of French archival sources, Paul is also an historical tailor producing museum-quality replica clothing, the study of which has given him a unique understanding of the Napoleonic era.

https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Wing...rdback/p/53206

https://www.casematepublishers.com/9...gs-over-italy/