Airpower is a surprisingly engaging analysis of the military aviation capabilities of America and European combatant countries during the period of 1936 to 1940.
High Point: Major Williams was provided surprising access to Allied and German factories and aircraft.
Low Point: His description of America’s lack of support of its European allies.
Author: Major Alford Williams
Publication Date: 1940
Genre: Aviation
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Airpower by Major Alford Williams is a surprisingly engaging analysis of the military aviation capabilities of the United States and the European combatant countries during the period of 1936 to 1940. Allied and German authorities granted Major Williams a surprising level of access to their factories and the aircraft they produced. He spent considerable time with the engineers and military leaders who drove the development of their countries’ aircraft. And in a few cases, he was permitted to fly them.
His narrative is full of informative stories about the aircraft and men who would soon be facing one another in combat over Europe. He spices them up with firsthand accounts of travels through Europe as the countries prepared for war.
Major Williams wraps up his book by reviewing the German invasions of the Low Countries and France, and analyzing the tactics they employed so successfully. He concludes with a critical judgment of America’s inadequate support of its European allies and its troubling lack of preparation for the coming war.
Taken on its own, Airpower is a compelling blend of history and aviation. But in the 21st century—armed with the knowledge of how the war ultimately unfolded–Major Williams’ perspectives and analyses become even more striking. His assessments proved to be not only captivating, but remarkably accurate.
Sources For This Book
Free eBook (Project Gutenberg): Not available
Free Audiobook (LibriVox): Not available
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