A definitive new edition of a classic memoir, published in association with the RAF Museum, complete with more than 100 photographs and notes from leading historians. Guy Gibson was the leader of the famous Dambusters raid and Enemy Coast Ahead is a vivid, honest account, widely regarded as one of the best books on World War II. It is also an insider's account that sets down in clear, honest detail the challenges that the RAF faced in the war against Germany’s Luftwaffe. Tragically, Gibson died in September 1944, when his Mosquito crashed near Steenbergen in the Netherlands. He was aged just 26. This new book has been published to mark the 75th anniversary of his death and includes an introduction by James Holland, a historian and broadcaster; notes by Dr Robert Owen, the Official Historian of the No. 617 Squadron Association and many images that have never been published before. "This is a fascinating account of one of the war’s most daring missions written by the man most responsible for its success...the notes that accompany this edition add tremendously to understanding Gibson and the Dambusters." Air Power History Born in India in 1918, Guy Gibson grew up in India, Cornwall, Kent and Oxford. An average student, Gibson always had a passion for flying, and commenced flying training in November 1936 at the Bristol Flying School. In early 1937, he began RAF basic training at RAF Uxbridge, and was awarded his pilot’s wings in May 1937. During the war, Gibson was part of three operational tours, with Bomber Command and Fighter Command, playing an important part in the decisive Battle of Britain. He gained notoriety for the Dam Busters raid where he led his squadron. He was awarded the VC and in June 1943 became the most highly decorated serviceman in the country. James Holland is an internationally acclaimed and award-winning historian, writer and broadcaster, specializing in the Second World War. The author of a number of best-selling histories, including, most recently, The War in the West, he has also presented – and written – a large number of television programs and series.