This epic air story of World War II is a powerful, poignant cross-section of the global air conflict from the perspective of British and American pilots. The author artfully weaves the historical backdrop with the pilots' accounts of one-on-one dogfights, dangerous bombing missions, and narrow escapes. Whether recounting the dark days of the Battle of Britain or the far-flung operations in the South Pacific, the narrative pulls the reader into the cockpit where the smell of fuel, the percussion of anti-aircraft fire, and the strain of man and machine stretched to their limits are palpable. The pilots' stories of courage in the face of danger and death—including the rescue of a young Lt. George Bush—provide an inspiring theme throughout. This book is a must read for pilots and everyone else who appreciates "the right stuff."