The Friendless Sky, by A McKee

The Friendless Sky, The story of air combat in World War 1
by Alexander McKee

Alexander McKee, historian, diver and underwater photographer is best known for leading the team of amateur divers (including John Bevan) from the Southsea BSAC who spent 20 years searching for and eventually finding the Mary Rose. John Bevan’s admiration and respect for ‘Mac’ (as he was known to his friends) is reflected in his comprehensive collection of McKee’s books of which this is one.

In 1914, for the first time in history, a British Expeditionary Force crossed the Channel under air cover. It was barely five years since the first flimsy flying machine had flown the Channel (with a destroyer following in case of engine failure). Yet within three years a British aircraft had flown the Atlantic, nearly 2,000 miles non-stop. Air fighting, which had begun with pistols and rifles being fired casually out of ‘flying birdcages’ had become a deadly science. The concept of a strategic bomber force was born and tested. Drawing entirely on a host of eye-witness narratives, McKee recreates the battles and outlines the progress of the momentous war years.

Hardback with dust jacket in protective cellophane cover.
Dust jacket in well-used condition. Rubbed corners, tears to edges and small pieces missing. Illustrated endpapers have slight mottling. Inside pages in good condition
12 pages of black and white photographs.
1962, Souvenir Press, London (first edition)
256 pages, 145mm x 220mm (approx. 6in x 8.75in)