Fly By Knights: Air Force A/B/RB-26 Air Commando Missions in the Vietnam War

During the Vietnam War, U.S. military leaders recognized the effectiveness of prop-driven planes like the Douglas B-26 light bombers in counterinsurgency warfare. Forty B-26s were remanufactured as improved A-26 attack aircraft, destroying hundreds of North Vietnamese supply vehicles on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The personal recollections of pilots, navigators, maintenance and armament personnel, and family members provide a harrowing account of combat operations in Vietnam and Laos.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

The United States military underwent a significant transition towards jet aircraft during the Vietnam War. However, it soon became apparent that prop-driven planes could still have a valuable role in counterinsurgency warfare. As a testament to this, World War II-era Douglas B-26 light bombers proved to be highly effective in close air support and interdiction operations.

Beginning with Operation Farm Gate in 1961, these planes were utilized to great effect in supporting ground troops and disrupting enemy supply lines. To enhance their capabilities, forty B-26s were remanufactured as improved A-26 attack aircraft. These upgraded planes were instrumental in destroying hundreds of North Vietnamese supply vehicles on the Ho Chi Minh Trail during the 1966-1969 period.

The personal recollections of 37 pilots, navigators, maintenance and armament personnel, and family members provide a harrowing account of the combat operations conducted by the B-26 and A-26 Air Commando Wing in Vietnam and Laos. These individuals witnessed firsthand the challenges and dangers of flying in hostile environments, as well as the bravery and sacrifice of their fellow airmen.

The use of prop-driven planes in Vietnam highlights the adaptability and versatility of the U.S. military. It demonstrates that even outdated aircraft can be repurposed to meet the changing needs of warfare. The stories of the pilots and crew members who flew these planes provide a valuable insight into the history and legacy of the Vietnam War, and their contributions to the overall effort to secure victory.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476686806