Iowans of the Mighty Eighth

Air Force

During my recent visit to Iowa I also took the opportunity to read some interesting books. I was impressed by the book, the title as listed above, written by Charles D. Taylor which contains World War II wartime experiences from Iowa Heroes as they relayed them to the author.

The book contained a brief History of the Eighth Air Force and then had pictures of most of the Heroes who were killed in action during the War. There were 482 known Heroes who perished in World War II who served in the Eighth Air Force. Each of these had a picture in the book.

The main part of the book contained the stores of those who came home. Their stories as well as the pictures taken during their Service time as well as their current photographs were interesting to view. Over 2000 Iowa Heroes served in the Eighth Air Force during World War II.

The author concluded his book with this comment: "Memories may have faded, but Pride in their Unit has not faded."

Certainly a great book to read and to also realize the sacrifices these men made to protect our freedoms.