Ace in a Day: The Memoir of an Eighth Air Force Fighter Pilot in World War II

Wayne K. Blickenstaff, known as Blick, was a cadre member of the 350th Fighter Squadron of the 353rd Fighter Group based in England. He flew the P-47 Thunderbolt and P-51 Mustang, completing two tours of operations between 1943 and 1945. His memoir, Ace in a Day, provides a unique and valuable insight into the harsh realities of the air war in Europe from one of the Mighty Eighth's top fighter pilots.

Format: Hardback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2022
Publisher: Fighting High Ltd

Wayne K. Blickenstaff, known as Blick, was a steadfast member of the 350th Fighter Squadron of the 353rd Fighter Group, stationed at Goxhill, Metfield, and Raydon, England, as part of the Eighth Air Force's efforts to prosecute the strategic air campaign against Germany. As an original cadre member, he steadily progressed through the ranks, from Second Lieutenant Element Leader to Flight Leader, Squadron Operations Officer, Squadron Leader, and finally to Lieutenant Colonel and Group Operations Officer. Blick's remarkable career was marked by his proficiency in flying the P-47 Thunderbolt and P-51 Mustang, completing two tours of operations between 1943 and 1945, encompassing a total of 133 missions and claiming the destruction of 10 enemy aircraft in the air. His exceptional achievements earned him the status of a double ace, with a Me262 jet fighter and the remarkable feat of destroying five aircraft in a single mission. This extraordinary feat bestowed upon him the rare distinction of achieving ace in a day status.

Blick's honest and gritty personal memoir, Ace in a Day, delves into his air war experiences in Europe. Through his vivid writing, readers are transported into the cockpit, sharing the intense battles and ground attacks that characterized his service. Blick's account vividly portrays the sheer danger of flying World War II fighters, regardless of the weather conditions. It highlights the multitude of threats faced by pilots, not just from enemy fire but also from moments of inattention, overconfidence, or simple mistakes that could have catastrophic consequences. Blick's keen observation of character shines through in his pen portraits of his fellow pilots, including those who tragically lost their lives during the war. These portraits offer a poignant and deeply moving tribute to those with whom Blick served, providing a glimpse into the lives and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.

Ace in a Day is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of a working fighter squadron at war and the complex dilemmas faced by those in command. Supported by an impressive array of original documentation, photographs, and detailed appendices, including Blick's never-before published wartime journal, Ace in a D, the book provides a comprehensive and immersive account of Blick's military service. Blick's wartime journal offers a firsthand perspective on the challenges and experiences of a fighter pilot during the war, providing insights into the daily routines, missions, and emotions of those on the front lines.

In conclusion, Wayne K. Blickenstaff, known as Blick, was a remarkable fighter pilot who played a pivotal role in the air campaign against Germany during World War II. His achievements as a double ace, coupled with his honest and gritty memoir, Ace in a Day, offer a unique perspective on the challenges and dangers of flying in the era of World War II. Blick's memoir provides a valuable insight into the dynamics of a working fighter squadron and the sacrifices made by those who served during this tumultuous period. Through his vivid writing and personal accounts, Blick pays tribute to his fellow pilots and the countless others who lost their lives in the air battles of Europe. Ace in a Day is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, aviation, or the human cost of war.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838068738