Stanford Tuck by Helen Doe, HB 256 pages, 34 B&W photographs, 1 map, Grub Street £25.00, ISBN 978-1-911667-91-9
I first learned about Wing Commander Bob Tuck more than 50 years ago, I was off ill from Primary School and picked out Fly for Your Life by Larry Forrester from my father’s bookcase. I was mightily impressed and read it many times over the next few years. I was therefore absolutely astonished to learn from this new biography that the opening section of Forrester’s book, on Tuck’s life before joining the RAF, was largely invented, presumably because the true facts, were not exciting enough as a preamble to the great ace’s wartime exploits. Helen Doe digs much deeper and is measured, considered and judicious in her account and appraisal of Tuck’s life. It is very carefully researched from a wide variety of sources both primary and secondary, creating a much more rounded picture of a war hero, who, as all of do, had his disappointments, faults and flaws. The social setting of the pre-war RAF, which Tuck joined in 1935, is well-described, as is the way that it had to change to accustom itself to the strains and perils of war. A good example of the author’s diligence may be found in her description of the notorious ‘Battle Of Barking Creek’ in September 1939. There is absolutely no doubt that Tuck was a very brave, skilled pilot, excellent shot and a fine leader of men – though some believed that he was also something of a ‘line-shooter’. Many of his contemporaries are quoted, including not only his fellow pilots but also his adjutant and some of the ground crew, whose views illuminate the story of his rapid (and entirely deserved) progress from squadron pilot to wing leader. HerHelen
I found the account of his time spent in German prisoner-of-war camps fascinating and, again, those who were incarcerated and made escape attempts with him are quoted to telling effect. The extracts from Tuck’s letters home are very interesting as their rather stilted nature would tend to imply that they contained coded information for the Air Ministry.
The concluding chapters on Tuck’s life post-war, seemed to be me to be rather sad, as it does not seem (as was true for so many) that he was ever able to fully adjust to life after the dangers, thrills and deprivation of his life as a fighter pilot and POW. I am left with the impression that he was, in the end, unfulfilled.
This is an excellent book and is also enhanced by the terrific selection of photographs. I agree entirely with the distinguished historian Professor Richard Overy, ‘This is no hagiography, but a thoroughly researched biography that presents many sides of Tuck’s personality and career with candour and also with sympathy.’ Highly recommended.
