Nine Lives

Alan C. Deere's "Nine Lives" stands as one of the most compelling firsthand accounts of aerial combat during the Second World War. Published in 1959, this autobiography chronicles the experiences of a New Zealand fighter pilot who served with the Royal Air Force throughout some of the most intense periods of the conflict. The title itself refers to the seemingly miraculous survival of the author through numerous close calls and combat situations that claimed the lives of many of his contemporaries.

Deere joined the RAF on a short service commission in 1937, and his narrative begins with his early training and transition into military aviation. The book provides detailed accounts of his experiences during the Battle of France and the Dunkirk evacuation, where he flew Supermarine Spitfires in desperate attempts to provide air cover for the retreating Allied forces. These early chapters establish the harsh realities of aerial warfare and the steep learning curve faced by young pilots thrust into combat situations.

The heart of the memoir focuses on Deere's participation in the Battle of Britain during the summer and autumn of 1940. As a flight commander with No. 54 Squadron, he flew numerous sorties against incoming German bomber formations and their fighter escorts. The book offers valuable insights into the tactics, challenges, and daily experiences of Fighter Command pilots during this critical period. Deere describes the physical and mental strain of multiple daily sorties, the camaraderie among squadron members, and the constant awareness of mortality that accompanied each mission.

Throughout the narrative, Deere provides technical details about the aircraft he flew and the evolution of aerial combat tactics. His descriptions of dogfights are vivid and immediate, conveying the speed, confusion, and split-second decision-making required in aerial combat. The author also addresses the limitations and capabilities of the Spitfire, offering perspectives on its performance relative to German aircraft such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109.

One of the strengths of this memoir lies in its honest portrayal of both successes and failures. Deere recounts instances where he was shot down, including a particularly dramatic crash landing, and moments when luck rather than skill determined survival. This candor lends credibility to the narrative and distinguishes it from more sanitized or heroic accounts of the period. The author acknowledges fear, exhaustion, and the psychological toll of continuous combat operations.

The book also touches on Deere's experiences after the Battle of Britain, including his involvement in offensive operations over occupied France and his eventual rise to wing commander. These later sections provide perspective on how the air war evolved and how the RAF transitioned from defensive to offensive operations. The narrative includes accounts of interactions with other notable pilots and commanders, offering glimpses into the personalities and leadership styles that shaped Fighter Command.

Deere's writing style is straightforward and accessible, reflecting his practical military background rather than literary ambitions. The prose focuses on action and events rather than philosophical reflection, which suits the subject matter and maintains momentum throughout the book. While the author occasionally includes personal observations about the nature of combat and leadership, these remain grounded in specific experiences rather than abstract theorizing.

The historical value of "Nine Lives" extends beyond its combat narratives. The book serves as a primary source document for understanding the operational realities of Fighter Command during a pivotal moment in history. Deere's observations about aircraft performance, tactical developments, and the organizational structure of the RAF provide useful context for historians and aviation enthusiasts. The memoir also contributes to understanding the international character of the RAF, as Deere was among many Commonwealth pilots who served in British squadrons.

For readers interested in military aviation history or the Second World War more broadly, this autobiography offers an engaging and informative perspective. The combination of personal experience, technical detail, and historical significance makes it a valuable addition to the literature on the Battle of Britain. While the book was written relatively soon after the events it describes, this proximity to the source material enhances rather than diminishes its value, capturing details and impressions that might otherwise have faded with time.

"Nine Lives" remains in print decades after its initial publication, testament to its enduring appeal and historical importance. The book provides accessible entry into understanding what fighter pilots experienced during the Second World War while offering enough depth to satisfy those seeking more than superficial accounts. Alan Deere's survival through years of combat operations and his ability to articulate those experiences have resulted in a memoir that continues to inform and engage readers interested in this crucial period of history.