Sky Train - The Story of the 67th Troop Carrier Group

Author: Collas Harris (Preface)
Publisher: Angus & Robertson Ltd Aus
Edition: First
Cover: Hardcover
Published: 1945
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Synopsis: Collas Harris presents a detailed unit history of the 67th Troop Carrier Group, documenting this essential transportation unit's vital contribution to Allied victory in World War II through its participation in major airborne operations across multiple theaters. The book traces the group's formation and intensive training programs that prepared crews for the complex challenges of combat troop carrier operations including precision navigation, formation flying, and coordination with airborne forces. Harris meticulously documents the group's deployment to combat zones and participation in crucial airborne assaults including the invasion of Sicily, D-Day operations in Normandy, Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands, and the Rhine River crossing operations. Each operation is examined in comprehensive detail, showing how the group's C-47 aircraft and glider-towing capabilities were fundamental to the success of Allied airborne strategy. The narrative incorporates extensive firsthand accounts from pilots, crew members, and ground personnel who served with the unit, providing personal perspectives on the unique dangers and challenges of flying unarmed transport aircraft into heavily defended combat zones. Technical aspects of troop carrier missions are thoroughly covered, including specialized aircraft modifications for paratroop and glider operations, navigation equipment and procedures, and the complex coordination required with ground and airborne forces to ensure mission success. The book documents the evolution of troop carrier tactics throughout the war and the valuable lessons learned from early operations that improved subsequent mission effectiveness and reduced casualties among both aircrew and passengers. Harris examines the extraordinary risks faced by transport crews, who often flew predictable flight paths through enemy-defended airspace while maintaining precise formations essential for accurate delivery of airborne forces to their objectives. The work includes detailed accounts of aircraft losses and combat casualties, showing the human cost of these vital operations and their impact on unit morale and operational capability. Training procedures and preparation for combat operations are covered extensively, demonstrating how crews developed the specialized skills necessary for precise formation flying, accurate navigation under combat conditions, and effective coordination with multiple military units. The book also documents the group's crucial role in post-combat operations including supply missions to advancing Allied forces, medical evacuation flights, and the transportation of liberated prisoners of war back to Allied territory.

Sky Train - The Story of the 67th Troop Carrier Group, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.