One of the Few: A Story of Personal Challenge through the Battle of Britain and Beyond

Group Captain Johnny Kent was the leader of one of the most successful fighter squadrons of the Second World War. His leadership helped the 303 Polish Squadron play a decisive role in the Battle of Britain, and earned him the highest Polish military award, the Virtuti Militari as well as the affectionate nickname ‘Kentowski’. Kent’s 1971 memoirs tell the story of his life in the RAF, from his struggles as a boy on the Canadian Prairies to get into the air, through his experiences as a test pilot in Farnborough and his constant efforts to excel at what he did. This new edition includes an introductory chapter and epilogue by his daughter that places his story into the broader context of his life as a son, husband and father. The book now raises poignant questions about what it meant to earn the distinction of being ‘One of the Few’ both for men like Johnny Kent and for those close to them. AUTHOR: Johnny Kent grew up in Winnipeg and became the youngest licensed pilot in Canada when at just 17. He grabbed experience and flying hours wherever and whenever he could and was constantly on the lookout for a career in flying. His chance came when he was offered an RAF commission in the 1930s and the rest is history. He published his memoirs in 1971 and died in 1985. Alexandra Kent is his daughter. 30 b/w illustrations