Bolts from the Blue: From Cold War Warrior to Chief of the Air Staff

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Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Johns was commissioned at the RAF College Cranwell in 1959 after completing flying training on Piston Provost and Meteor aircraft. Following nine years service as an operational fast-jet pilot, primarily on the Harrier, he commanded both a Harrier squadron and the Harrier Force in Germany, then became a qualified flying instructor during which time he taught The Prince of Wales to wings standard. A succession of national and NATO senior appointments followed, culminating in his promotion to Chief of the Air Staff and Air ADC to the Queen. On retirement in April 2000, he became Constable and Governor of Windsor Castle. A past chairman of the Board of Trustees of the RAF Museum, he is now president of the RAF Historical Society. His illustrious career gave him the privilege of a rare, if not singular, perspective of the RAF, our sister services and national defence matters, witnessing a steady decline in the combat power of the UK's armed forces as financial management took precedence over identifying strategic priorities and maintaining the vital skill-set of service personnel. His views are forensic and forthright, balanced and thought-provoking and this autobiography should be essential reading for anyone interested in the development of Allied air power over the last fifty years.

Reviews

'A masterly autobiography, the most significant contribution to the RAF's historiography ... for many years. Entertaining and persuasive.'-- "Air Power Review"
'Book of the month December 2018. Pulls few punches... such a good read and a valuable contribution to the literature on the post-war RAF.'-- "Aeroplane"
'In recommending this well-written and often page-turning story I am sure you will enjoy Sir Richard's writing style...'--AVM Nigel Baldwin "RAF Historical Society Journal"
'The Views in this book are forthright and thought provoking - and essential reading.'-- "Britain At War"
'A nicely balanced combination of history, personal reflection, honesty and insight.'--ACM Sir Stephen Hillier CAS
'An outstanding story of a distinguished airman's career ... well-illustrated ... written clearly, precisely with humour and a fantastic recall. I cannot recommend it highly enough.'--Air Cdr Tom Eeles, author of The Honourable Company of Air Pilots
'Great read. A very valuable addition to the library of anyone with an interest in the history of the RAF.'--Air Cdr Graham Pitchfork
'Quite the best autobiography I have read on military matters for years. Should become compulsory reading for young officers.'--ACM Sir Michael Graydon (CAS 1992-1997)
Unique, informative and readable autobiography ... an invaluable education for military men and historians.'--Gp Capt Nigel Walpole
'A masterpiece contribution to RAF contemporary history.'--ACM Sir Patrick Hine (AOC-in-C Strike Command 1988-91)
'Stimulating, enjoyable, well written...'--ACM Sir Anthony Bagnall Vice CDS 2001-2004