FIRST EDITION: The Eagle Squadrons: Yanks In The RAF 1940 – 1942 By Vern Haugland

SIGNED and inscribed by one of the books subjects, Reade Tilley – ‘To Joseph Salam One of the best men I have ever met. W/warm regards, Reade Tilley Dec 1, 79.’. Tilley has 16 citations in the index at the rear of the book. 25 May 1942 – Towering Reade Tilley Jr., Clearwater RAF fighter pilot who couldn’t join the U.S. Air Corps because he was too tall, has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for valor in recent air battles over Malta, one of two Americans so honored. Associated Press dispatches from Cairo, Egypt, yesterday telling of Tilley’s decoration credited the former local Junior college student with destroying four enemy aircraft and almost certainly downing a fifth, although it was not officially claimed. On three occasions, although he had run out of ammunition, he drove off enemy fighters attempting to shoot British fighters as they landed, the British citation revealed. Previously he had been credited officially with shooting down (one FW190 probable -jf) an Axis plane in an air battle over the English Channel. His total score to date, five, makes him the first ace of World War II in this area. Also included is a letter on Tilley’s personal notepaper which reads ‘Don’t despair over the fishing gear. The fellow who is going to cut the cord in smaller pieces has family problems. Should be there in a couple of weeks – Best! R.T.’ Book condition near fine. Jacket condition very good. Hardcover. Published by Ziff – Davis Flying Books New York 1979