The Surly Bonds of Earth

The entire world was aflame in a bitter war for survival. Europe had been struggling for its very existence for some time, and there were clouds of war drifting inexorably toward America. A sneak surprise attack on Pearl Harbor galvanized Americans to action. Patriotic fever reigned supreme and all citizens readily answered the nation's call to service. One youngster, still a senior in high school, waited impatiently to become old enough to put on a uniform and join the millions who had responded to their country's call. To become a pilot and join the ranks of Colin Kelly, The Flying Tigers, The Memphis Belle, Major Bong and others was a 24/7 dream and fantasy. I was that dreamer. This is an account of one young pilot's participation in that conflict. This true historical account commences with childhood fantasies about becoming a pilot, and the sometimes-clumsy effort to joint the Army as an aviation cadet. Once accepted for training there was a year of intense training before joining a wartime unit with 65 combat missions over France and Germany. All the dangers, frustrations and emotions from almost daily brushes with death, as reported in diary entries and letters home, are recorded in this gripping story from World War II.