The 357th Fighter Group is one of those iconic USAAF fighter groups of WWII. Its red and yellow checker nose markings are know by anyone with even the slightest interest in WWII US aviation. modelers love it and there have been more decal sheets dedicated to this unit than just about any others. In fact, its markings have become so often seen that it is by many, considered to be almost trite.

In combat from 11 February 1944 until the end of the war in May of 1945, it is truly surprising how much success the unit had in those short 15 months. It was able to make about 36 men aces with many more having air to air success against the Luftwaffe. Some of those men like Chuck Yeager, went on to make a name for themselves in other areas of aviation. Some plane names such as Arkansas Traveler, Passion Wagon and Old Crow are often more well known than the men who flew the planes.

In this book by Chris Bucholtz, one goes from their formation at Hamilton Field on P-39s to their initial combat operations over a year later and many of the missions they flew. In fact, this book is as much an 'I was there' book as anything as it is full of anecdotes provided by pilots of some of their more interesting and harrowing experiences while with the 357th.

All of this is superbly illustrated with the profile work of Chris Davey as well as a number of excellent photos of pilots and planes gleaned from a number of sources. Several of these are old friends while there are those that are new.

In all, it makes for a fascinating read and a book that will be read over and over again.

December 2010

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