The One Who Almost Made it Back: The Remarkable Story of One of World War Two's Unsung Heroes, Sqn Ldr Edward Teddy Blenkinsop, DFC, CdeG (Belge), RCAF - Tapa dura

"fascinating ... this is both a harrowing and uplifting read." --Flypast, December 2008

...a remarkable tale of determination, courage and sacrifice that was begging to be told. Courage takes on many forms and this book describes from all sides, the crews of the bombers, night fighters and the civilians who risked their lives - and in many cases gave them. Celis makes sure that his sacrifice and that those who risked all to help will not be forgotten. --Classic Wings

'A heart-stopper and a masterful job. I was deeply moved by the stories of bravery and the tragedy resulting from resisting the nazi occupation that Celis so beautifully presented.' --Kathleen, daughter of a P-51D Mustang pilot

On the night of 27/28 April 1944, Teddy Blenkinsop and his crew were acting as deputy master bombers during a Pathfinder raid on Montzen in Belgium. After a successful attack, their Lancaster was shot down. Miraculously he survived to be protected by Belgian citizens before ending his days in Bergen Belsen concentration camp. Little was known of his exploits in between until Peter Celis, a Belgian air-force officer, began to research the story. What he uncovered is far more amazing than any fictional film could be. He found that Blenkinsop was not only an exceptional and gallant operational pilot, but that his loyalty, dedication and devotion were second to none and that his bravery and fearlessness led him to make the supreme sacrifice in the face of Nazi Germany. Written with pace and insight, this is an uplifting account of an outstanding young man who very nearly made it back home.