The Men who Breached the Dams

Author: Alan Cooper
Publisher: William Kimber London
Edition: First
Cover: Hardcover w/Dust Cover
ISBN: 0-7183-0308-3
Bomb

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Synopsis: This gripping account of Operation Chastise, the famous "Dambusters" raid of May 1943, chronicles one of the most daring and innovative air operations of World War II. The book provides comprehensive coverage of the mission that saw specially modified Lancaster bombers attack major dams in the German Ruhr valley using revolutionary bouncing bombs designed by inventor Barnes Wallis. The narrative begins with the strategic thinking that identified German dams as critical vulnerabilities in the Nazi war machine, showing how their destruction could cripple industrial production and disrupt transportation networks. The work details the scientific challenges overcome by Barnes Wallis in developing the unique "Upkeep" weapon that could skip across water to reach dam faces, requiring unprecedented precision in both design and delivery. The formation of No. 617 Squadron specifically for this mission receives extensive coverage, including the selection of crews with exceptional flying skills and the intensive training required to master the low-level precision flying techniques essential for mission success. Personal profiles of the aircrew reveal the remarkable individuals chosen for this dangerous assignment, including Wing Commander Guy Gibson, whose leadership and flying ability made him the ideal choice to lead the raid. Training sequences are thoroughly documented, showing how crews practiced the ultra-low level flying and precise timing required to place the weapons accurately while avoiding heavy defensive fire. The book includes detailed technical information about the modifications made to Lancaster bombers for this special mission, including the removal of bomb bay doors and installation of the complex spinning mechanism required for the bouncing bombs. Mission planning procedures are extensively covered, showing how intelligence gathering, weather analysis, and route selection contributed to the operation's partial success. The raid itself is described in vivid detail, including the courage required to fly at tree-top level over heavily defended targets while maintaining the precise speed and altitude necessary for weapon release. Combat encounters with German defenses are thoroughly documented, including the losses suffered during the mission and the fate of aircrew who were shot down. The immediate results of the raid are carefully assessed, including damage to the targeted dams and the impact on German industrial production. The book also examines the propaganda value of the operation and its effect on both British and German morale. Post-war analysis reveals both the tactical success and strategic limitations of the raid, while honoring the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in this daring operation.

The Men who Breached the Dams, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.