aerial operations

Although airplanes were used to some degree in conflicts prior to 1939, World War II was when military aviation truly became a vital component of war plans. Many sophisticated warplanes were developed, increasing the power and accuracy of aerial bombing and tactical air support. This resource provides an in-depth look from every angle at aircraft such as the P-51 Mustang and Boeing B-29 Superfortress, demonstrating how these planes contributed to how each nation waged war during World War II.

A young adult adaptation of the account of American lieutenant Louis Zamperini's experiences as a prisoner of war during World War II after his plane crashed in the Pacific ocean and he was captured by the Japanese.

A biography of Olympic runner and World War II bombardier, Louis Zamperini, who had been rambunctious in childhood before succeeding in track and eventually serving in the military, which led to a trial in which he was forced to find a way to survive in the open ocean after being shot down.

Biography of Eugene Jacques Bullard, the world's first black fighter pilot. Discusses Eugene's early life in racist Georgia and how he fled to France, joined the French Foreign Legion, learned to fly, and distinguished himself in both World War I and World War II.

In Bombing Nazi Germany, renowned graphic novel author and artist Wayne Vansant profiles the Allied air war against Nazi Germany throughout Europe during World War II. Meticulously researched, illustrated, and written, the novel tells the story of the first and second generations of airmen, soldiers, and politicians from both sides who sought to bomb the enemy into submission.

In the waning months of the war, German measures against the Dutch grew more and more harsh. Raids increased in frequency and ferocity. House-to-house searches flushed out suspected Resistance members, who were deported to work camps or shot. The Nazis starting mining the nation's remaining dikes in preparation for a last ditch stand. In April they blew up the great polder of Wieringermeer, rendering thousands of people homeless.

Draws from primary sources and interviews with surviving veterans of all ranks and duties to recreate the Pacific War of World War II as it was fought in the skies by forces from Japan, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand; exploring technology and tactics, the battlefield, living conditions, leadership, morale, and other topics.