Flying Forts: The B-17 in World War II

Author: Martin Caiden
Publisher: New York New York
Edition: First
Cover: Hardcover w/Dust Cover
Published: 1968
Bomb
There is no such thunder in history -- nor ever will be again -- as the deep-throated roar of the mighty, four-engined B-17s that streamed across the skies in World War II

More Reference Books

Synopsis: Martin Caidin's definitive account of the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress stands as one of the most comprehensive and emotionally resonant chronicles of America's most famous World War II bomber. Drawing from extensive research and interviews with veterans, Caidin traces the complete saga of the B-17 from its pre-war development through its legendary service in both European and Pacific theaters. The book begins with the aircraft's origins in the mid-1930s, when Boeing engineers created a revolutionary four-engine bomber that would become synonymous with American strategic air power. Caidin details the technical evolution of the B-17 through various models, explaining how continuous improvements in armament, armor, and systems transformed it into the formidable weapon that could penetrate deep into enemy territory and return despite catastrophic damage. The narrative focuses heavily on the Eighth Air Force's daylight bombing campaign over Europe, where B-17s faced the full fury of German air defenses. Caidin masterfully recreates the experience of combat missions, from the pre-dawn briefings through the harrowing flights over heavily defended targets like Schweinfurt, Regensburg, and Berlin. His writing captures the claustrophobic terror inside the aircraft as crews endured temperatures of -40 degrees Fahrenheit, withering fighter attacks, and deadly accurate flak bursts that could tear bombers apart in seconds. The author doesn't romanticize the campaign, honestly portraying the staggering losses during 1943's "Black Week" when the Eighth Air Force lost 148 bombers in a single week. Caidin provides detailed accounts of individual aircraft and crews, including legendary bombers like "Memphis Belle" and "Hell's Angels" that completed their tours, as well as the thousands that didn't return. The book extensively covers the tactical evolution of bomber formations, the development of the combat box formation for mutual defense, and the introduction of long-range escort fighters that finally made deep penetration missions survivable. Beyond the European theater, Caidin explores B-17 operations in the Pacific, Mediterranean, and other theaters, showing the aircraft's versatility in different combat environments. The narrative includes detailed technical explanations of the B-17's construction, particularly its ability to absorb incredible damage and continue flying - a characteristic that saved countless lives. The author addresses controversial aspects of the bombing campaign, including civilian casualties and debates over strategic effectiveness. Throughout, Caidin maintains deep respect for the aircrews who flew these missions, creating a monument to their courage and sacrifice that brings the B-17's story to vivid life.

Flying Forts: The B-17 in World War II, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.