Down to Earth: The autobiography of Air Marshal David Evans, AC, DSO, AFC.

The fascinating autobiography of Air Marshal David Evans AC, DSO, AFC.

David Evans’ 42-year career in the Royal Australian Air Force began during the closing stages of World War II, then saw him flying regularly to Japan in support of occupation forces. It took him to Germany during the Berlin Airlift, and to Vietnam in command of the only bomber unit which the RAAF contributed to that conflict. He also led the Wing operating the RAAF’s new F-111Cs—Australia’s premier strike aircraft for most of the next four decades.

Added to that operational experience were jobs flying VIPs (including the Governor-General and Prime Minister) around Australia and beyond, conducting training in New Zealand, and representing the RAAF in the capital of our principal ally, the United States. His career culminated in him serving as Air Force chief for three years, from 1982 to 1985—a period of enormous change, evolution and modernisation within the Australian Defence Organisation.
With his flying days now 25 years behind him and both feet planted firmly on the ground, Air Marshal Evans gives a vivid and forthright account of his Air Force experiences, and reflects back on one of the most varied personal careers of the modern RAAF. pp. viii, 284 illusts First Edition #0520