Fine unread condition blue boards with silver spine lettering contained in a fine condition non price-clipped color illustrated dust jacket. Includes List of Other Books by Walter J. Boyne; Author Dedication; Acknowledgments; Foreword by Hugh Sidey; Preface; Appendix One: Secretaries of the Air Force, Chiefs of Staff of the Air Force, and Cihief Master Sergeants of the Air Force; Appendix Two: Commands of the United States Air Force; Appendix Three: Guard, Reserve, Air Force Academy, and Civil Air Patrol; Bibliography; A Chronology of Aerospace Power Since 1903; and Index. Illustrated with three sections of black-and-white photographic plates and one section of color photographic plates. "September 18, 1997, marks the fiftieth anniversary of the United States Air Force. Over the five decades of its existence, the USAF has distinguished itself in wars both hot and cold; in the process, it has pioneered the most amazing advances in technology that the world has ever seen. Beyond the Wild Blue is a fascinating look at fifty turbulent years of Air Force history. From the prop-driven armada of World War II to the most advanced Stealth weaponry, from pioneers like General Henry "Hap" Arnold to glorious conquests in the Gulf War, Beyond the Wild Blue is a high-flying study of the triumphs (and failures) of leadership and technology. The USAF has adapted to an array of social challenges as well. The armed services are often praised for their successful intergration of both women and minorities; the Air Force was demonstrably the most effective and aggressive service in achieving these goals. Beyond the Wild Blue tells the full story of meeting these challenges, and how the USAF is preparing for the difficulties of tomorrow. Author Walter J. Boyne is one of the country's leading authorities on the United States Air Force. As a retired colonel, he has five thousand hours of flying experience, and is a former director of the National Air and Space Museum. He also served as host of The History Channel's television production of Beyond the Wild Blue. This is Boyne's most important book yet - an invaluable study for anyone who's interested in history, the military, or the simple joy of flying." - from the inner front jacket flap.
