In this Book
- Wings of Gold: An Account of Naval Aviation Training in World War II, The Correspondence of Aviation Cadet/Ensign Robert R. Rea
- Book
- 2015
- Published by: The University of Alabama Press
summary
Wings of Gold makes a unique contribution to the history of naval aviation. The book sets out the day-to-day experiences and reactions of a cadet who went through the aviation training program at its peak during World War II. An emphasis on training is missing in almost all books dealing with that conflict; in this book, it is the focus. In contrast with official histories, this is an account of how training did occur, rather than how it was intended to occur. It chronicles failures as well as successes, frustrations and achievements. Beginning with a comprehensive introduction to the history of naval aviation training, the authors recount the personal experiences of an individual cadet preparing for war, based on wartime letters written by cadet Rea to his family. The letters are open and candid, and they provide an insider’s look at the conditions and nature of the Naval Aviation Training Program in the 1940s.
Millions of Americans underwent military training during World War II, and contemporary historians and readers have begun to recognize the significance and value of primary sources related not only to combat but also to training and preparedness.
Millions of Americans underwent military training during World War II, and contemporary historians and readers have begun to recognize the significance and value of primary sources related not only to combat but also to training and preparedness.
Table of Contents
Download Full Book
- Illustrations
- pp. ix-x
- 1. Personal Background
- pp. 46-51
- 3. Sprouting Wings: War Training School
- pp. 79-102
- 4. Winter of War: Pre-flight School
- pp. 103-131
- 5. Spring in the Air: Primary Training
- pp. 132-174
- 8. War's End: Squadron Training
- pp. 288-308
- A Personal Postscript
- pp. 309-310
- Appendix: Flight Maneuvers Mentioned
- pp. 311-314
- Bibliography
- pp. 323-326
Additional Information
ISBN
9780817390303
Related ISBN(s)
9780817303198, 9780817358259
MARC Record
OCLC
44964648
Pages
348
Launched on MUSE
2016-01-01
Language
English
Open Access
No
Copyright
1987