The Lonely Eagles: The Story of America's Black Air Force in World War II

by Robert A. Rose

Describes African American participation in the Air Force during World War II.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1976

Reviews

[Bruce Cline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Day 2, book 2
Lonely Eagles, The Story of America’s Black Air Force in World War II by Robert A. Rose , D.D.S.
This short, amply illustrated book, documents in sometimes exhausting detail the difficulties in establishing the right of Blacks to serve as pilots and support in a segregated military. It’s long on names, units, aircraft, logistics and otherwise dry administrative detail, but provides a glimpse into the struggles inherent in proving the abilities and capabilities of Blacks against at a background of individual and institutional prejudice. Jim Crow attitudes and behavior throughout the country and throughout government were very real and very personal. The author does include some operational stories — combat — but it would have been a more interesting read to have had more of that. However, the domestic fight against Institutional racism is a more important story. This is an enlightening, positive, yet depressing look at mid-century America that is missing from mainstream education.

[KennyO · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was at an air fair at an airport and asked an old Tuskeegee airman which of the books on display on their table would be the best introduction to their story. This is the one he picked up and dedicated for me. It's a small book with as much space given to photographs as to text. I agree with his selection, this is a fine introduction to that history.