Gunslingers: Allied Fighter Boys of WWII

During World War II, the United States was technologically disadvantaged in all branches of the military, including a viable air force. This book focuses on the young men who answered the call to duty and were transformed from "farm boys to fighter pilots" and offers a rare glimpse of what it was like to fly a variety of frontline fighters, including the P-39 Aircobras, P-40 Warhawks, P-38 Lightnings, P-47 Thunderbolts, and P-51 Mustangs. Many of the pilots depicted also achieved the status of ace with five or more aerial victories.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

When the war clouds of Europe and Asia descended upon the shores of the United States, the allied military found itself vastly outnumbered, outgunned, and outflown. The United States, still reeling from the Great Depression, faced a significant technological disadvantage across all branches of the military, including a viable air force.

Numerous books have been dedicated to exploring the development of US airpower and the intricate specifications of each American and Allied aircraft. However, this book takes a different approach. It focuses on the young men who answered the call to duty and underwent a remarkable transformation from "farm boys to fighter pilots." This book offers a rare glimpse into the experiences of flying a diverse range of frontline fighters during World War II.

The reader will journey through the skies with Army Air Force P-39 Aircobras, P-40 Warhawks, P-38 Lightnings, P-47 Thunderbolts, and P-51 Mustangs, as well as US Navy F4F Wildcats, F4U Corsairs, and F6F Hellcats. Each story is vividly recounted, accompanied by actual combat reports from many of the narratives. Notably, many of the pilots portrayed in this book achieved the prestigious status of ace, with five or more aerial victories under their belts.

This book is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the young men who served in the air forces during World War II. It sheds light on the challenges they faced, the training they underwent, and the sacrifices they made to protect their countries and allies. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in military history, aviation, or the personal stories of those who fought for freedom.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 237 x 166 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493063697