Fields of Little America An Illustrated History of the 8th2nd Air Division 1942-45
Author: Martin Bowman
Publisher: Euromedia Norwich
Edition: First
Cover: Soft
ISBN: 0-903619-19-9
Bomb
Synopsis: Martin Bowman's comprehensive illustrated history documents the distinguished service of the 2nd Air Division, Eighth Air Force, during World War II, providing detailed coverage of one of the most effective bomber divisions in the strategic bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. This extensively illustrated account combines historical narrative with rare photographs to create a comprehensive visual record of B-24 Liberator operations from England during the crucial period when strategic bombing helped achieve Allied victory in Europe. The narrative traces the division's formation, training, and deployment to England, where they established bases throughout East Anglia and conducted sustained bombing operations against strategic targets throughout Nazi-occupied Europe. Bowman provides extensive coverage of the division's most significant operations, including participation in major bombing campaigns against German oil production, aircraft manufacturing, and transportation networks that crippled enemy war production and military effectiveness. Through careful research and veteran testimonies, the author captures the unique challenges faced by B-24 crews operating in the European Theater, where the Liberator's different performance characteristics required specialized tactics and procedures compared to the more numerous B-17 Flying Fortress units. Personal accounts from aircrew members reveal the courage and determination required for sustained bombing operations against heavily defended targets, while technical discussions illustrate the constant evolution of tactics and equipment that improved mission effectiveness and crew survivability. The illustrated format provides extensive visual documentation of aircraft, personnel, and operations, including rare photographs of mission preparations, combat formations, and the aftermath of bombing operations. Statistical analysis demonstrates the division's exceptional effectiveness and their crucial contribution to achieving air superiority over Europe, while mission accounts reveal the tactical innovations and strategic impact of their operations. The book includes comprehensive coverage of individual bomb groups within the division, providing detailed information about their formation, deployment, and combat records throughout the European campaign. Technical photographs and diagrams illustrate aircraft modifications, bombing equipment, and the specialized techniques developed for effective B-24 operations in contested European airspace. Personal photographs and memorabilia enhance the human dimension of the narrative while providing intimate insights into the daily lives of men who conducted dangerous missions far from home. Maps and operational charts provide geographic context for bombing operations while illustrating the strategic scope and tactical complexity of the division's combat missions. This comprehensive illustrated history serves as both an authoritative reference work and a visual tribute to the men of the 2nd Air Division, preserving their legacy through detailed documentation of their combat experiences and operational achievements during one of the most significant strategic bombing campaigns in military history.
Fields of Little America An Illustrated History of the 8th2nd Air Division 1942-45, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.
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