Hostile Skies: A Combat History of the American Air Service in World War I

From April to November 1918, the American Air Service grew from a poorly equipped, unorganized branch of the U.S. Expeditionary Forces to a fighting unit equal to its opponent in every way. Hostile Skies details the actual battle experiences of the men and boys who made up the service squadrons at the front - Raoul Lufbery, Elliott Springs, Fiorello La Guardia, and, of course, Rickenbacker. In addition, several chapters are devoted to the background problems of the infant U.S. air arm, its training, and organization. Combining a straightforward historical exposition with a colorfully written narrative based on eyewitness accounts, James J. Hudson draws on information from his research in the National Archives, USAF Historical Division Archives, unit histories, and reports enhanced by his personal correspondence with many of the survivors of the "war to end wars." This book will be read by all who are interested in this little-documented aspect of the Great War.