The autobiography of a lesser known Luftwaffe general would not normally be worthy of much notice, but General der Flieger Alfred Mahncke's 'For Kaiser and Hitler' is a treasure trove. For Mahncke was to quote the title of Adolf Galland's autobiography, truly the First and the Last in German aviation. He was one of Germany's earliest military pilots and provides a fascinating account of life before and during the Great War during which he knew key members of the German Army air leadership. His account of his early days in military aviation is truly an eye-opener with many surprising revelations.

A policeman between the wars before rejoining the colours, he served in the Luftwaffe largely in an administrative role, but was highly regarded by that most demanding of leaders, Wolfram von Richthofen. He also provides a fascinating insight into the problems which the Luftwaffe faced, both in Russia and in Italy. Mahncke not only provides much information on the background to German air power, but some interesting comments on the personalities and situations which it faced. This is combined with a revealing social background about life for an officer and ex-officer in Imperial, Weimar and post-war Germany and a fascinating career change which began as a prisoner and led to a new life.

This is a fresh and fascinating account of German air power written by someone who was neither at the top, nor the bottom, and therefore provides a new perspective. For anyone interested in the evolution of German air power, it is essential reading.