September 1939... For the 12 young RAF pilots of Hornet Squadron, this is the moment they have been waiting for. Flying beautiful aircraft in perfect formation, they face an enemy better trained, armed and experienced than themselves.
October 1939... with their Spitfires in France near the German border... For most of the young Hornet Squadron pilots, their France posting is the first time they have left the shores of England. They spend the initial lazy days of 'the phoney war' in an idyllic French chateau, pampered by their charismatic Squadron Leader. All the while the young pilots strain for real action and dream of romance.
December 1939... with their Spitfires in France near the German border... Like all young men away from home for the first time, the pilots from Hornet Squadron find ways to amuse themselves with all the delights that France has to offer. Meanwhile, Squadron Leader Rex is determined not to let efficiency slip and decides to test his pilots.
March 1940... with their Spitfires in France near the German border... As the young pilots of Hornet Squadron bore of the 'phoney war', they enjoy the delights of the local village and two of the pilots decide to take local brides.
May 1940... with their Spitfires in France, near the German border... The 'phoney war' is over with a vengeance and Germany is attacking France. Danger lurks at every turn and the RAF are constantly being pushed back. There is an urgent need for new tactics, aircraft and fighting spirit if the young pilots of Hornet Squadron are to survive...
August 1940... The young pilots of Hornet Squadron have returned to the South Coast of England... Morale has been low but fresh aircraft and pilots are arriving to prepare for the mighty anticipated German attack. The new boys are ribbed by the 'old hands' and, with the tension of constant readiness, simple pranks can easily get out of hand. But the glorious days of high summer mean that the enemy come over in endless waves, and the Squadron Leader has his hands full keeping the hard-pressed pilots at their sharpest.
