The Millionaires' Squadron

Relays the remarkable story of 601 Squadron RAF, a squadron created by Lord Edward Grosvenor in 1924 his requirements for potential new starters being 'social status, poise, ability to drink, and membership of White's'.

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601 (Auxiliary) Squadron of the RAF is famed for a host of reasons. Notable for the social calibre of its members, gleaned from the eccentric and elite membership of the exclusive White's Club, London, (upon inception in 1924) the unit came to be known as 'The Millionaires Squadron', seeing real action in the Battles of Britain and Malta, with many of its members securing distinguished victories. Despite their social rank, they were thrust right into the heart of the action, with mortality proving to be the great social leveller. From pampered pre-war lifestyles to perilous front-line deployment, their career trajectories featured the kind of radical changes of pace and focus that war alone engenders. In the process, the members of 601 were changed forever.

Notable individuals to play a part in the history of the Squadron include Lord Edward 'Ned' Grosvenor, Sir Philip Sassoon, Sir Nigel Norman (later developer of Heston airport and designer of many others), Loel Guinness, Whitney Straight, Max Aitken, and Roger Bushell, mastermind of the Great Escape. Despite the fact that the squadron's second commanding officer, Sir Philip Sassoon, had to be 'helped' to win his wings, and that the members were often suspected by regulars of lacking sufficient experience and commitment, they went on to prove themselves in a variety of heroic ways. When called to action, they more than proved their mettle, as Moulson relays in this well-written, often humorous account of the squadron's exploits.

Originally published in 1964 to great acclaim, this second edition features a wealth of brand new content in the form of newly uncovered documentation and photo illustrations. It is set to bring the story of this eccentric and dynamic squadron to a whole new audience of aviation and military enthusiasts.