The Mighty Eighth

The first detailed and profusely-illustrated reference history of the United States 8th Army Air Force from its inception in January 1942 to its departure from the United Kingdom after the end of the hostilities in Europe.
Compiled and written by an acknowledged expert on the subject, this book traces the early history of the 8th Air Force and details its operations against the Luftwaffe from the United Kingdom from July 1942 until V-E Day, with emphasis on the combat units, their men and machines.
An appendix reference section gives accurate statistics on every bomber and fighter formation to serve under the 8th Air Force.
Created for the express purpose of flying unescorted daytime high-altitude precision bombing missions, the 8th Air Force had to face many vicissitudes and combat attrition before it overcame the desperate enemy opposition and its own errors of judgment. By D-Day 1944 the 8th Air Force had grown into the largest air striking force ever committed to battle.
As the 8th Air Force was destined to play a major role in smashing the German war effort, this work will be of considerable value to all readers interested in the history of the Second World War. It is illustrated by over 400 selected photographs enriched by a full color section depicting the markings and color schemes of most 8th Air Force bomber and fighter units.




by Roger Freeman
Published by Macdonald and Janes 1976 4th impression. 311pp profusely illustrated, index, appendix. 23x29 slightly yellowed, otherwise very good, including d/j.
Classic history of the Eighth Air Force, and originator of the prefix "Mighty"






Note:
"Long" descriptions, where shown, may have been taken from the book's dust jacket notes, and as such are relevant to the date of publication (e.g. any references to "new edition" "previously unpublished photographs" etc.) and not the present.