The Wild Blue

The young men who flew the B-24s over Germany in World War II fought against horrific odds, and, in The Wild Blue, Ambrose recounts their extraordinary heroism, skill, daring, and comradeship with vivid detail and affection.

Twenty-two-year-old George McGovern, who was to become a United States senator and a presidential candidate, flew thirty-five combat missions, all the Army would allow, and won the Distinguished Flying Cross. We meet him and his mates, his co-pilot killed in action, and crews of other planes. Many went down in flames.

As Band of Brothers and Citizen Soldiers portrayed the bravery and ultimate victory of the American soldiers from Normandy on to Germany, The Wild Blue illustrates the enormous contribution that these young men of the Army Air Forces made to the Allied victory.

On only his second bombing run on December 15, 1944, the windshield of McGovern’s B-24 was broken by a piece of flak that might have ended his life, missing him by inches as it passed by his left shoulder, yet he continued on and completed his mission undisturbed.

The Wild Blue: The Men and Boys Who Flew the B-24s Over Germany by Stephen E. Ambrose is a captivating and deeply personal account of the brave American airmen who flew B-24 Liberator bombers during World War II. Ambrose’s work provides a detailed and intimate exploration of the experiences, challenges, and sacrifices of these men.

One of the book’s strengths is Ambrose’s ability to bring the individual stories of the airmen to life. Through extensive interviews and research, he vividly portrays the camaraderie, fear, and adrenaline of the young pilots and crew members. The personal narratives add a human element to the broader historical context, allowing readers to connect with the airmen on an emotional level.

Ambrose’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making The Wild Blue a compelling read for both history enthusiasts and general audiences. His attention to detail and meticulous research provide a comprehensive understanding of the training, missions, and challenges faced by the B-24 crews.

However, some critics argue that the book could have delved deeper into the strategic and historical significance of the B-24 missions and their impact on the overall war effort. They suggest that Ambrose focuses more on the individual stories and personal experiences, occasionally neglecting a broader analysis of the role of the B-24s in the air campaign over Germany.

In conclusion, The Wild Blue is a captivating and moving tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the B-24 airmen. Ambrose’s ability to humanize the individuals involved and provide a personal perspective on the war makes it a compelling read. While it may lack some in-depth analysis, the book successfully conveys the intensity and heroism of the men who flew the B-24s over Germany.

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