A Thousand Shall Fall: The True Story of a Canadian Bomber Pilot in World War Two

by Murray Peden

During World War II, Canada trained tens of thousands of airmen under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Those selected for Bomber Command operations went on to rain devastation upon the Third Reich in the great air battles over Europe, but their losses were high. German fighters and anti-aircraft guns took a terrifying toll. The chances of surviving a tour of duty as a bomber crew were almost nil.

Murray Peden's story of his training in Canada and England, and his crew's operations on Stirlings and Flying Fortresses with 214 Squadron, has been hailed as a classic of war literature. It is a fine blend of the excitement, humour, and tragedy of that eventful era.

Genres: Aviation, History, World War II, War, Canada, Biography Memoir, Nonfiction

490 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Allan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murray Peden beat the odds and survived his first tour as an Allied bomber pilot over the skies of war-torn Europe. His heart-felt account sees him transformed from high school graduate in Manitoba to Captain of a massive 71,000 lb. Short Sterling whose cockpit sits some 22 ft. above the runway. Peden is generous to both friends and enemies and as a consequence his story is gripping in its authenticity and humanity. As he recounts the toll of war the reader is swept along on his journey and is able to get a glimpse of what it must have been like to fly missions lasting as long as 9 hours knowing that at any moment death could end it all. He ends his book with a comment on on how quickly civilian life after the war made the whole experience seem fragmented and transitory. Thus the lot of the citizen- soldier.

[Helena Schrader · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good, detailed account of flight training and operations with the RCAF in WWII. Based on diaries and letters, the author has reconstructed his personal path from recruit to decorated bomber pilot. He includes both technical details and his escapades off duty. The author flew Sterlings and Flying Fortresses (in the RAF). Although this book did not personally resonate with me as other first-hand accounts have done (e.g. Harry Lomas' "One Wing High" and "Stevie" Stephen's "Tomorrow May Never Come") that is an entirely subjective response. With other readers, Peden may strike a chord. So, if you're interested in the topic, it is worth reading.

[Anne Gafiuk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Writing stories about the young men who progressed (or not) through the BCATP during my research, it was interesting to read Murray Peden's first-hand account of his wartime experiences. Filled with such detail, I had to wonder: did the author have a photographic memory? Highly recommended for someone keen to learn about Canada, the RCAF, and Bomber Command during WWII.

[Travis Whyte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first hand memoir gave me wonderful insight into the training and bomber pilot operations for hundreds of brave Canadians who willingly signed up to join the RCAF in WW2. Although my uncle Billy, one of those very bomber pilots never made it back home to Canada, I was able to learn of the experiences he would have had learning to fly and forming friendships with his fellow air crews.

[Chris Tschirhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best World War 2 aviation book I have ever read. I enjoyed the usual progression of a pilot in the Commonwealth Air Training Program to an instructor towards the end of the war after he had completed his tour of bombing missions. It is the first book I ever read that tells what it is like to fly in a short sterling the first heavy bomber of Bomber Command, not the usual Halifax and Lancaster stories, and the challenges of the plane are quite different that the other two mainstays of Bomber Command. Others have pointed out he tells the story with humanity and empathy and doesn't gloss over the awesome toll of the young men who flew the bombers over Germany and occupied Europe.

I liked the honesty of how this period in his life was his schooling in the ways of the world and growing up by taking the responsibility for the survival of others being in command of the bomber.

[Andy Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember all the things your parents used to say? 'Eat your vegetables', 'You get what you pay for' and 'You can’t judge a book by its cover'. Well, as we all know, our parents are invariably right and, as much as we hate it, at some stage in our lives, we will catch ourselves saying the same things. Having a book fetish as I do no matter how hard I try I do find myself “judging a book by its cover.” After all, that’s the whole point when it comes to selling books, isn’t it? Call to the potential buyer siren-like with a great looking book and hope for the best. As you will have read in the previous review, this can back-fire on the gentle reader but for this review, it works. However, wrapping 'A Thousand Shall Fall' in brown paper would not matter a damn – it is truly the mother of all classic war memoirs.

Murray Peden is a Canadian who joins the RCAF the day after his 18th birthday in October 1941. He progresses through Initial Training School, Elementary Flying Training School (where he discovers the joys of flying Tiger Moths ) and Service Flying Training School (Cessna Cranes) before embarkation to England in November 1942. Pretty standard stuff for someone training to be a pilot but more of that later. Arrival in England brings leave in Bournemouth prior to blowing the cobwebs out on Tigers again at EFTS and then joining an Advanced Flying Unit and getting to grips with the Airspeed Oxford. Crewing-up, Wellingtons at OTU and then Stirlings and joining a Main Force squadron – 214 – follow in natural progression and I know this process is probably old hat to most of you. The thing, however, is that by the time Peden’s crew go on their first Main Force trip, you are already more than 230 pages into the book. The detail is phenomenal, some of Peden’s adventures (and misadventures) are epic and it is all just so easy to read. By page two I had chuckled to myself and by page four, I had laughed out loud. This sense of humour and keen observation prevails throughout but I digress.

Peden’s crew, after their captain does two second dickey trips (one decidedly dodgy and the other thoroughly professional), gets through their ‘Gardening’ (mine-laying) op and then gets stuck into their tour with raids on Germany and Occupied Europe. They certainly gel as a team and there is a firm sense of complete trust in each other. Yes, they have their scrapes but it comes as no surprise when they are seconded to 161 Squadron at Tempsford for training in supply-dropping to resistance forces in occupied France. There is an interesting but brief insight into these operations before a return to 214, further ops and then, joy of joys, 214 is taken out of Main Force, joins 100 Group and receives Flying Fortresses for use in ‘spoof’ raids and other electronic countermeasures to hopefully confuse the German radar and night-fighter defences. I say 'joy of joys' simply because reading about Fortresses in the RAF is not a regular occurrence and combining them with 100 Group operations is just out of the ordinary for this type of book.

The conversion from Stirlings is smooth and the comparisons between the two aircraft (I’ll probably regret saying this) in the text must surely be unique in this genre. Peden, who is an above-average pilot (and writer) throughout, adjusts well and he and his crew continue their tour into 1945. I have to admit I found myself thinking they had a better chance of surviving by not being in Main Force. However, their work, by necessity, drew night-fighters to them (away from Main Force) or involved flying within the bomber stream to make life difficult for the defenders. Numerous countermeasures are used and Peden gives an excellent overview of the tactics of both sides in this most deadly of cat-and-mouse games.

Finally, the Peden crew completes their tour in early 1945 and after a short while of them all instructing new Fortress crews at 1699 HCU, they go their separate ways but not before flying their ground crew over past targets. The family is split up and the big adventure is over.

This book is pure, unadulterated brilliance. It is written by someone who is clearly very well read and has a delightful and accurate turn of phrase. Full of numerous laugh out loud escapades and typical aircrew hi-jinks, Peden’s writing is equally moving and emotional. He loses a number of very good friends (the book is partly dedicated to them) and, on one occasion during training in Canada, escorts the coffin containing his best mate back to the mourning family in the US. I challenge you not to get at least a lump in your throat. It is truly beautiful writing from a very talented author. An infinitely better writer than me could make it a lot clearer with reference to other clever writers but you know the feeling you get when you read a good book – that light-headedness and general sense of nirvana (maybe it’s just me)? With ATSF, you’ve got it by the second page.

This book is just over four years of Peden’s life in well over 400 pages. It’s a cast of hundreds and like Shakespeare’s world stage, the players have their entrances and, sadly in many cases, their exits. Peden weaves it all together and ... I’ve said enough. Want more proof as to how good this is? I’ll leave that to Sir Arthur Harris who read the first edition in 1979 and was compelled to write a letter to the author (which he starts with 'Dear Peden'):

"I consider it not only the best and most true to life ‘war’ book I’ve read about this war, but the best about all the wars of my lifetime."

[C.D.FLANAGAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read dozens of WW2 aircrew memoirs, and this sits easily in the top 5.It has more detail on the training aspects than any other book I've read, about half of the book, but that is just as interesting as the operational part.
What makes this book though is Pedens writing style, the humour runs through it and is offset by the terrible losses Bomber Command suffered which make for a very moving account,
Its a long book but I didn't want it to end.

[Christine Rollando · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was a little bit difficult for me to get through as it is deep in the culture of the military which is outside of my expertise. I respect the work as a non fiction account of WW2 bombing raids and found some parts of the book were very intriguing. The author has a nice dry sense of humor as well.

[Michael Koch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was originally published in 1973; this version was reprinted in 1988. Peden, a Canadian, enrolled in the RCAF immediately following his 18th birthday in October 1941, as an Aircraftsman Second Class. At the end of the war, he was Flying Officer with numerous administrative and leadership positions, and returned home in August 1945. Peden must have been a very good pilot as he was assigned a few prestigious positions including the 617 Squadron (dam busters) where he was part of the operation that saw the sinking of the Tirpitz.

The crew of this pilot was very tight. Nobody ever transferred, unless ill or wounded and he only ever chastised a crewmember once. The Short Stirling was their initial assignment, later followed by the US Flying Fortress B17. All bombers have idiosyncrasies but in this entire book, Peden never accused his aircraft of any failings, except one statement that the low ceiling of the Stirling made it more vulnerable than many of the other fleet. (The Stirling was removed from European operations as soon as enough of the other bombers were available.) He made friends easily and they all remembered him when posted to other stations or on visits. When posted to B17s at a USA station to help the American pilots with their first nighttime bombing, he joined their operations and found them all very pleasant to deal with and gave their aircraft high praise. They appreciated him so much that they gave him and his crew a memorable departure party.

The book is extremely interesting. Several books of this nature I found carry too many stories of the same type. In this book however, there were only a small handful of stories that could have been eliminated at no cost to the content. The anecdotes started early and ran to the end. They all carried learnings, and some were downright humorous. Some even included Generals as he succeeded in obtaining the autograph of Lt General Ira Eaker, commander of the US Eighth Air Force.

A fascinating story of an unsung Canadian. This is the best book of its nature I have ever read. “I consider it the best and most true to life ‘war’ book I’ve read about this war,” Marshal of the Royal Air Force, Sir Arthur Harris. Interesting for those with broad interest in the Second World War, especially the air war. I even learned how important the bicycle was to bomber pilots. The planes were widely scattered around the airfield with the crew housed miles from their craft and miles from the nearest pub, village or town. Four and a half stars.

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best World War 2 aviation book I have ever read. It is an absolute gem. Murray Peden tells the story of his war from a raw prawn trainee pilot to an instructor towards the end of the war after he had completed his tour of bombing missions. He tells the story with humanity and empathy and doesn't gloss over the awesome toll of the young men who flew the bombers over Germany and occupied Europe. The close friends he lost and those who survived. And it is a story of a young man who is inexperienced in the ways of the world and growing up by taking the responsibility for the survival of others as the skipper of the bomber. To me there are so many highlights in this book that it would be unfair to single any out. All I can say is that if you like stories of human conflict and survival, aeroplanes and World War 2, just read it for yourself.

[Kerri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I began reading this on Remembrance Day, thinking I ought to have a better understanding of what the heroes of our country faced in World War II.
Selecting Peden’s book to read first in this journey was not a mistake. I was captivated. As a 27 year old I have read a couple memoirs involving wars that have unfolded during my lifetime, but not from fellow Canadians.

Thank you, sir, for your service, and your carefully written memoir of that time so my generation might gain some small understanding.

[David Walley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Either this author has a phenomenal memory or he kept a very detailed notes all the way through the Second World War. This is a very intricate Account of his training of a the pilot for 214 Squadron. It really is a very detailed memoir and was thoroughly enjoyable. The only reason for not rating this as five stars is that he really did not account for the psychological stressors of being a pilot in war time. Perhaps that is just something that was not discussed in the open for fear of being branded LMF .

[Chad Manske · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murray Peden’s account of his training as a bomber pilot under the British Commonwealth Training Plan, and follow on training in Canada and the UK during WWII is a literary treasure! Even Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris (see letter at very end of manuscript) enjoyed it! Flying Stirlings and Fortresses against the Third Reich was harrowing and the courage exhibited by these crews was nothing short of heroic!

[Michael Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased Murray Peden's memoir in 2021 at my dad's (constant) recommendation and read it at the beginning of 2022 as soon as I heard Murray Peden had died at age 99. A wonderful memoir, with lots of laugh out loud lines and stories but also profoundly sad remembrances of comrades lost. The Second World War heroes won't be with us much longer. We will remember them.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a terrific book. Peden has an easy to read style that engages the reader. He makes clear the heroism, bravery, horror, and tragedy experienced by aircrew during WWII. Peden describes the lighter moments - a few had me chuckling as I read, other times one felt misty eyed when Peden's friends died in service. If you are interested in the BCATP or the air war in WWII, this is a must read.

[Emerson Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute page-turner. Bomber Command was one of the deadliest roles in the war and Canada's contribution to it was massive through the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. The men that died going through their tour are underrepresented and their stories must be told, and Murray Peden shows his own story along with those of his crew and friends that survived or died. Certainly, this book must be read to understand the thought process and psychology of a WWII bomber pilot.

[Matthew Okuhara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will never grow tired of this book. The sense of humour and sense of duty reflect this period in history in a way no other WW2 book has. Not only this, but also the story is second to none. It is unbelievable yet relatable.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murray Peden was my father’s uncle. I have looked at this book on the bookshelf for 40 years, and finally decided to read it.

I wish I had read it while Murray was still alive, so I could tell him how much I love this book.

[Ethan Symon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is king compared to all WWII pilot autobiographies I have read so far! During the time I read this, the author passed away which added to the impact of an already fantastic read.

[Damian Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book in college and loved it. Even got to chat with the author via our professor. Shout out to Dr. Markeley at CSUF.

[Relstuart · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the best memiors I've read about the European bombing campaign. And one of the few I've read from the RAF night bombing perspective. Peaden walks you through the whole training program he went through in Canada with his classmates. How he worked hard to get into fighters and how some of his classmates worked hard but didn't make the cut as pilots or due to mistakes by themselves or others did not survive training.

He talks about the personal side of his life, who he dated, learning to enjoy adult company of his fellow fliers, having to deal with losing friends who did not succeeed to stay in training or who died. You felt like it was an adventure of a bunch of college kids. And that is exactly what it was.

It was really interesting to hear his experience in England and the social adjustment. How he ended up being assigned to train in bombers, he picked people for a crew, got to know them, and then decided to give up on flying fighters to stay with his crew. He walks you through their missions. He doesn't just tell you what happened but takes you with him through their missions.

A bit longer than many similar books but worth it.

A story from the book (true I beleive as a picture of Lady MacRoberts is included in my edition): One day Mackie told me a story I would never forget. It was a poignant tale, at once sad and uplifting, concerning a Scottish woman I had not heard of, Lady MacRobert.
Lady MacRobert's husband died in 1922, leaving her with three sons to raise. When they grew up all three lads were drawn to flying.
One son, Sir Alasdair MacRobert, was killed in a flying accident in 1938. When the war broke out L...ady MacRobert had two sons anxious to fly on operations.
On the 22nd of May, 1941, she suffered a second blow, receiving notification that Flight Lieutenant Rodrick A. MacRobert had been shot down while flying his Hurricane on an operation in Iraq.
As Mackie told the story it was easy to imagine the strain Lady MacRobert must have been under, with her only remaining son still flying on operations. I pictured her attempting to carry on at home - a home incidentally, which she had thrown open to servicemen - praying fervently he be spared to her, starting apprehensively at every glimpse of a telegraph boy, or at the knock of any casual caller.
Her mother's prayers went unanswered. Sir Ian MacRobert was killed flying on operations less than six weeks after his brother, Roderick, on June 30th, 1941.
Lady MacRobert's response to this culminating tragedy, after she had weathered it's cruelest hours, came like a flashing ray of light from a magnificent spirit. She donated twenty-five thousand pounds towards a new Sterling bomber, which upon delivery, she presented formally to No. 15 Squadron, RAF, to carry on the battle. Proudly emblazoned on each side of the cockpit, just below the canopy was a message to fire a warrior's heart:

"MACROBERT'S REPLY".

[Malcolm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is perhaps the best memoir of WW II I have ever read. It is the story of Murray Peden, a boy from Winnipeg, who became a pilot in RCAF 214 Squadron, and was awarded the DSM by King George.

The book describes the training of our pilots from ground zero, relates the stories of many of the pilots who lived and died, daily life in the Squadron. He takes us on each and every of his 27 bombing missions.

Peden is a terrific writer who also includes some funny things as well such as elaborate and simple pranks guys pulled on each other.

The book is loaded with photographs of our Air Force people, and many shots of the aircraft of the period.

Even if you don't normally read war books, this is one every Canadian should read. Murray Peden is a little known Canadian Hero who deserves to be known and remembered by all.

[Marc Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although it was written in the 1970's, Murray Peden's masterwork succeeds and survives to this day by giving us youngsters an insider's look at life as a front line WW2 bomber pilot.

Peden's book is so personal that you will shed many tears while reading it. When friends are lost, they are your own friends, from school or work or social circles. And when Peden's wry sense of humour shines through, you will laugh out loud at the crazy antics.

Books written this well are rare. Books written this well about war, even less so. Congratulations and thanks, Mr. Peden!

[Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haven't read a war memoire / personal recollection so vivid for years. The descriptions of basic training - learning to fly in a Tiger Moth ( I flew in one recently as a birthday pressie) are just terrifying. The book is leavened with the authors brilliant sense of humour and a lovely honest easy style of writing that made it unputdownable. A classic tale of the Bomber Command campaign against Nazi Germany and an all round great read to boot.

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply put this was a fantastic book about a Canadian WWII bomber pilot from training to operations and his experiences during the war. This book was hard to put down and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was recommended to me many months ago by a former pilot I happened to strike up a conversation with. I purchased it from Indigo online and it was worth every penny. For anyone who wants to read an amazing book written by a Canadian pilot about the bomber experience then this is the book for you.

[Shannon Cole · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars - I found the beginning dragged, but it was important stuff to cover. The interest level increased as he gets operational. Admire this mans accomplishments - a worthy read for people interested in the bomber command

[Michael Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Hard to imagine what it would be like to fly bomber missions over Germany during the war, but Peden does a great job.

[Philip Guy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great historical memoir. Very moving