Half a Wing, Three Engines and a Prayer

[N.O.S.]

If you have just half an interest in B17s and the experience of their aircrews, get this book.

 

Half a Wing, Three Engines and a Prayer, by Brian D. O'Neill ISBN 0-07-134145-5

 

This is a 1999 much-revised edition of a 1990 work, detailing the 25 missions undertaken by a B17 crew of the 303rd BG, Molesworth between Aug '43 and Feb '44.

 

Using war diaries of crew members and some thorough research, this is a fascinating illustration of what it must have been like to fly and survive a tour of duty. All missions are detailed, as seen by each crewman and observers from other planes, all based on personal diaries, logs, recollections and official reports.

 

I have found similar books in the past to be a little unpalletable, but this one will have you glued to the pages - you seem to get drawn into each successive struggle for survival. 10/10 from me!