FRENCH EAGLES SOVIET HEROES by John D. Clarke - SIGNED by Roland de la Poype

FRENCH EAGLES SOVIET HEROES by John D. Clarke - Signed by Roland de la Poype HSU

The 'Normandie-Niemen' Squadrons on the Eastern Front.

Seconded to the Soviets during WW2, the French Groupe de chasse 3 (3rd Fighter Group 'Normandie-Niemen' became the second highest scoring fighter unit in the Red Air Force and the most highly decorated ever to fly for France. The Unit took part in the massive Battle of Kursk and later Stalin added the title 'Niemen' for the efforts of the Unit in aiding the Red Army to cross that River. The 'Normandie-Niemen' continued their fight over East Prussia and into Central Germany. By the war's end they had racked up an impressive total of 273 confirmed victories and another 37 probables, all whilst flying versions of the famous Yakovlev fighter.

This Book tells the complete story of this legendary Unit, packed with first-hand accounts and photos.

This Copy has a Bookplate signed by a veteran 'Normandie-Niemen' Ace:-

CAPTAIN ROLAND DE LA POYPE - Legion of Honour - Croix de Guerre - Hero of the Soviet Union

La Poype was under training when the German invasion of France occured in May 1940. Escaping to Britain, he joined 602 Squadron and actually flew as a wingman to the famed 'Paddy' Finucane! When he heard that a 'Free French' Unit was being sent to assist the Soviets he volunteered for Service with the 'Normandie' Unit flying the Yak1B. He flew during the epic Battle of Kursk and the following Orel Offensive. He finished the war with the 'Normandie-Niemen' after scoring 15 Victories in total. He was one of only four pilots from the Unit to be awarded 'Hero of the Soviet Union.

De la Poype passed away in 2012.

A VERY RARE ITEM FOR COLLECTORS OF EASTERN FRONT BOOKS!