Warbird Information Exchange

Has anyone read a book called "Masters of the Air" by Donald Miller? I saw Mr Miller on CSPAN's Book TV a few weeks ago and I was impressed with his presentation. I think I will put the book on my "read" list. I am currently reading "The Few" by Alex Kershaw. So far I like this book alot.

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Ain't no sunshine when she's gone!

I haven't yet, but I bought it for my grandfather who was a B-17 FE. He was very impressed and talks about it constantly whenever I see him.

I'm about half way through it.The author is obviously not completely familiar with some of the technical aspects,but from what I've read so far,I'd recommend it.I've read a lot of books concerning the Eighth Air Force and this one contains a fair amount of fresh material.

If you are interested in RAF Bomber Command,an excellent book centered on Number 9 Squadron is:"Bombers First and Last" by Gordon Thornburn (ISBN 1 86105 946 9).Its an interesting counterpoint to "Masters of the Air".Not exactly a suicide assignment,but not too far from it.

I'm almost finished with Masters of the Air. The Few is on deck.

I'm not a professional historian (just an artist), but as somebody who's been studying the WWII 8th Air Force for many years, I can tell you that Miller's book is one of the best books you'll find on the 8th and the strategic bombing campaign in Europe (which of course includes the 15th). He's an accomplished writer and excellent researcher, and it shows. Highly, highly recommended for a very good look at what was going on from many angles, from the highest levels (back and forth notes from Arnold and Spaatz and Eaker) to inside the cockpit through personal interviews.

Jimmy Doolittle later considered his most important decision of the war his early 1944 directive to Bill Kepner (VIII FC commander) that the primary purpose of his fighters would now be to seek out and destroy the enemy, not necessarily as close shepard to the lumbering bombers. As Doolittle put it, "I wasn't too popular on the bomber bases around that time!" The story of near-mutiny by some under his command who most definitely did not support that decision, but Doolittle's maintaining a steady course, is a study in leadership.

The Amazon.com 'reviews' of this title will give you great insight into what's covered.

Well worth it. I'd buy it again - in fact, I really need to read it again to make sure I get the full effect of this book. My only complaint is that with the obviously HUGE amount of information he had, why he didn't make this into a 2-volume set. I'm sure the marketing geeks had something to say about that.

Wade

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I'd have to agree with Wade's review of "Masters of the Air".My criticism on technical items referred to some minor aspects of actually piloting a B-17,such as the cockpit operation of a couple of engine controls.