Don't Let the Blue Star Turn Gold

by Jerry W. Whiting

These are true stories of airmen who didn't return from bombing missions over Europe. To those flying with them, they were simply gone. Many died in fiery crashes, while others became POWs or Evadees. A few were captured and later escaped and a small number were shot in their parachutes or killed after landing. Back at home, the families waited, often not knowing if a loved one survived. The stories are about the struggle to survive, so that blue star proudly hanging in the window at home wouldn't be replaced by a gold one. They are accounts of love, duty and courage. Some include information about those who aided the downed airmen. Each is placed in the context of what was happening elsewhere in the world at the time. The author shares background history of how each story came to be, often with surprising revelations. Painstakingly researched, this book is a must read for anyone interested in 20th Century American history, particularly for those interested in WWII.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Kayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the way that the author set up this book. Each chapter is its own little story. They do not all have the happiest of endings, but it is a World War II book so that seems impossible to expect. But I think the insights that the author gives in his sections entitled "The Story" are some of the best little tidbits.
The thing (or reality) that struck me the hardest was that there were multiple men who fought in this war and went on 49 missions and made it back to camp. Multiple men went out on what was to be their last mission before going home, but never made it home. So many men and families sacrificed so much in this war, so I greatly appreciate reading their stories in this book.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish i had stories from my great uncle. Reading these makes me a little sniffly so I have to read them sparingly but it is a fine collection of stories that need to be preserved and passed down for the families.