Full Description
This volume focuses on the little known official Army Air Force report commissioned by the Eighth Air Force's VIII Fighter Command (FC) in May 1944.
The detailed document chronicled the experiences of 24 pilots who had seen extensive service in the frontline escorting B-17s and B-24s on daylight raids deep into Germany. Briefed to provide a candid report on combat flying that could be used as a teaching 'manual' for potential fighter pilots, the VIII FC veterans openly discuss their secrets to success, and survival in the deadly skies over occupied Europe. Exactly half of those pilots who contributed to The Long Reach subsequently achieved ace status.
Contents
Author's introduction
Period preface by Major General W E Kepner
CHAPTER ONE
P-47 THUNDERBOLT PILOTS
CHAPTER TWO
P-38 LIGHTNING PILOTS 77
CHAPTER THREE
P-51 MUSTANG PILOTS 110
Appendices
Colour plates commentary
Index
