Tiger in the Sea: The Ditching of Flying Tiger 923 and the Desperate Struggle for Survival

On a moonless September night in 1962, a civilian pilot named John Murray saved 48 people from near-certain death by landing his big plane in the middle of a raging sea after it began to fall apart 900 miles from land. His stunning feats led to safety breakthroughs that have saved countless more lives, and he remains a pioneer who helped pave the way for modern-day heroes like Sully Sullenberger.

Format: Hardback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 14 July 2021
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

In the aftermath of World War II, when the hallowed yardstick of Iwo Jima and the Battle of the Bulge determined valor, the term "hero" was not lightly used. However, in 1962, a civilian pilot rose to the occasion and achieved unprecedented feats that captivated the world. John Murray's selfless actions and remarkable accomplishments garnered global headlines, prime-time media appearances, and a formal letter of gratitude from an awe-struck President Kennedy.

On a moonless September night in 1962, Flying Tiger flight 923, 900 miles from land, began to fall apart. At 21,000 feet, one by one, its engines burst into flames, leaving most of its passengers, Special Forces, en route to West Berlin, powerless over the North Atlantic. The inevitable crash was imminent. Survival seemed like an impossible mission. Yet, the scrappy pilot defied protocol, rejected the recommended emergency procedure, and "landed" his large plane in the middle of a raging sea. His audacious move saved all 76 on-board, despite the tragic fact that 28 died before they could be rescued.

John Murray's incredible feats did not end there. His remarkable achievements led to safety breakthroughs that have saved countless more lives. Billions still rely on these innovations today. Humble and quick to disavow his historic role, John Murray was a pioneer who paved the way for modern-day heroes like Sully Sullenberger.

Flying Tiger 923 is the story of that harrowing flight. It is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unwavering determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. John Murray's legacy continues to inspire us, reminding us that heroism knows no boundaries and that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things.

Weight: 682g
Dimension: 162 x 237 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493031566