Barracuda From The Cockpit Book Review
By David L. Veres
| Date of Review | May 2012 | Title | Barracuda From The Cockpit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Robert McCandless | Publisher | Ad Hoc Publications |
| Published | 2012 | ISBN | 978-0-946958-78-8 |
| Format | 144 pages, softbound | MSRP (BP) | £18.95 |
Review
I freely admit: ever since my pubescent paws first fondled FROG’s ancient offering, Fairey’s Barracuda really appealed to me.
The awkward airframe. The cumbersome contours. The ungainly outline. Or just moldy memories. Something ceaselessly snared my interest.
But that’s not why I thoroughly enjoyed the16th installment in AD HOC’s acclaimed “From the Cockpit” series. Principal author Robert McCandless with 13 other contributors produced a utterly engaging, informative account of this burly beast.
Lt-Cdr McCandless himself served in the Royal Navy’s Barracuda-equipped No.827 Squadron – and participated in strikes against the German battleship Tirpitz before flying from HMS Colossus in WWII’s closing Pacific actions.
And his avid affection for the subject clearly shows.
Liberally spiced with entertaining anecdotes, contents cover design, development, and operations of Fairey’s rugged, reliable strike machine. Intended for torpedo operations, the Barracuda – like Grumman’s legendary Avenger – actually saw greater action in bombing roles. And after retirement from front-line service, it performed valuable secondary capacities until mid-1953.
Over 160 photographs, 34 beautiful color illustrations, and complete unit lists augment AD HOC’s terrific tribute to Fairey’s brawny Barracuda. Treat yourself to loads of fascinating fun – and get thiscaptivating book.
Rabidly recommended.
My sincere thanks to Ad Hoc Publications for this review sample!