True Tales from the Operators of Britain's First Jet Fighter - From 1944 to date As Britain's first jet fighter, the Gloster Meteor has had a remarkably varied and lengthy life. But whilst many books have focused on its development and service history, the time has come to hear the personal experiences of its air and ground crews. By interviewing over forty veterans, author Steve Bond has written an incredibly detailed insight into this iconic aircraft, which is supported by anecdotes and accounts from those who knew it best. One example is Alan McDonald who described the Meteor as 'a bit unforgiving if you got it wrong, as many pilots found out to their cost, especially on one engine, but I must admit I got to like it very much it was a great adrenalin rush.' Alongside these entertaining anecdotes are details of the Meteor's origins and developments. Starting with the first deliveries in 1944 working through to the present day, Steve Bond documents the diverse role which the Meteor has had. From use in operations against the V1, photo-reconnaissance missions, as a training machine and later a display aircraft particular attention is given to its major service period of the 1950s through to the early 1960s. The book will also feature photographs never seen before in print. This detailed history of this iconic and much loved jet fighter will appeal to all aviation fans. Praise for Steve Bond's other titles, available from Grub Street: For Wimpy: 'This book makes a comprehensive record of the Wellington and is well-illustrated by many new or seldom-seen photographs.' Aeromilitaria 'Bond's tome provides the enthusiast with a long-awaited and very much overdue history and general companion. - ' Britain at War Book of the Month November 2014 For Special Ops Liberators: 'This is fascinating stuff. The story is told with good balance between the technical, operational and human aspects; high on detail, this is clearly the result of much research.' - Classic Aircraft Magazine