This highly-readable book recounts the highs and lows of US Navy air operations during the Vietnam War, from their start in 1964. Superbly researched, the author's easy style cleverly stiches together technical, tactical and doctrinal detail with relevant and moving personal accounts. The first part examines, in detail, the background to the start of the controversial bombing campaign against North Vietnam and the unsuitability of US carrier aircraft that had been designed for Fleet defence in a Cold War scenario. This resulted in the evolution of the famous 'Top Gun' school and the contrast in the later bombing campaign of 1971-2 is marked. Most impressive are the descriptions of the combat search-and-rescue operations, highlighting the sometimes desperate efforts the US made to rescue downed aviators from the horrors of capture. This gripping narrative will appeal greatly to general readers as well as aviation 'buffs.'
展开▼
