Hostile Skies

[Alan]

Forgive me if I've mentioned this before and/or it has been discussed in these hallow halls in the past, but I cannot stress anymore that this book, Hostile Skies - A Combat History of the American Air Service in World War I by James J. Hudson, is a great treatment on this topic.

For the purists, this not only details the exploits of the Pursuit Groups, but also those exploits of the Observation and Balloon Groups, too; the oft overlooked and unsung 'other' heroes of the war.

Written in 1968, it is still in print today (at least that's what BN & Amazon show...)(mine is a borrowed copy from the houston Public Library) and Mr. Hudson , a member of Cross & Cockade, references the C&C a lot, amongst other sources.

The short of it is, if one is looking for a good source of information that is well researched and documented, then this is a worthy book to peruse.

As to the veracity of said information and content, I leave that for the more well versed in these matters to enlighten. As a matter of record, I'd really welcome the opinion of the more well versed here as to whether I should keep extolling its virtues.

I understand there are those who sell snake oil out there and I'd hate to think this tome is among those products.

Dear Alan,
No, it's not your imagination-- HOSTILE SKIES is simply one of the very best books that you could find regarding the US Air Service, AEF.

While it does present some of the legends as fact, ie Frank Luke, it does a great deal to clarify some facts that have become legend, ie The Lost Battalion.

Also, it has a stupendous bibliography. (I'm finding, as I grow older, when I come across a new book, I skip the sexy parts and turn immediately to the index and bibliography...)

You can still purchase a brand new copy on-line at Amazon for about $14.00 (or contact me, and I'll sell you my slightly worn copy for $10, shipping included&#33.

Did you know that Hudson also wrote another book, in 1990 (and it's out-of-print)?
In Clouds of Glory: American Airmen Who Flew With the British During the Great War

Try ABEbooks on line...

VBR,
Captain Lewis

[Alan]

Thanks, El Capitan!

You'd part with such a volume? *gasp*

Actually, I've already put the wife on notice that this is a 'must' for the home library and I'm just waiting for such an opportunity. I will definitely consider your offer!

vbr,

Alan