William Wolf Livres

The book provides an in-depth examination of U.S. aerial armament during World War II, covering a wide range of topics including machine guns, cannons, ammunition, and gunsights. It delves into the machine gun versus cannon debate, explores gunnery training, and highlights air-to-air and strafing tactics used by both bombers and fighters. Additionally, it features a comprehensive analysis of bomber turret positions and fighter aircraft armament, supported by historical context, detailed descriptions, and illustrations of various weapons and their applications.

Focusing on the often-overlooked B-32 bomber, this comprehensive account delves into its development, testing, and combat history, challenging the narrative of mediocrity surrounding it. The author utilizes extensive design and production data, flight evaluations, and previously unexamined manuals to provide a thorough analysis. Insights from personnel involved in the B-32's journey, along with rare archival materials, enrich the narrative, offering a detailed perspective on its operational missions in the Pacific theater.

The narrative highlights the often-overlooked contributions of the Marine Corps squadron VMF-223, known as the "Death Rattlers," during World War II, particularly in the Okinawa campaign. Within a brief two-month period, they achieved remarkable success, becoming the top-scoring unit with 124 1/2 victories and producing 12 aces. The account not only focuses on the pilots and their valor but also honors the vital role of the enlisted men who supported them, emphasizing the camaraderie and personal growth experienced during their intense training and combat.

The narrative focuses on elite American pilots chosen through rigorous standards, showcasing their exceptional training and skill in advanced fighter aircraft. As they engage in aerial combat against the Axis powers, who struggle with training and resources, the pilots' superior tactics and abilities lead to a decisive victory in the air. The book highlights their experiences, challenges, and contributions to the war effort, providing an insightful look into a pivotal aspect of military aviation history.

The North American B-25 Mitchell is WWII’s most heralded and versatile medium bomber. Volume 1 (of two) gives the reader a concise illustrated look at the A through D models and follows the bomber’s genesis from the formation of the North American Company and its early steps toward the development of the NA-40, the first B-25. The continued evolution of the Mitchell from the A, B, C, and finally to the iconic D models is described in vintage photos. The production at the parent Inglewood, California, plant and then the Kansas City plant is illustrated, as are the important modification centers. The last half of the book covers the D model in many color photos of the interior and exterior, from nose to tail and from wingtip to wingtip. The Wright R-2600 radial engine and Hamilton-Standard propeller are detailed, as are their associated systems. The Mitchell’s markings and insignia changes are featured throughout.

Focusing on the often-overlooked contributions of USAAF fighter-bomber pilots during World War II, this comprehensive examination highlights their critical role in air-to-ground attacks over the Mediterranean and northwest Europe. The book reveals that these pilots faced significantly higher casualty rates during ground support missions compared to aerial dogfights. By exploring combat reports and pilot narratives, it delves into their strategies for achieving air superiority, interdiction, and close air support, showcasing their bravery in the face of intense enemy fire.

Focusing on the Douglas A-20 Havoc, this book highlights its significant yet often overlooked role in WWII, serving various Allied forces including the USAAF, British, and Soviet air forces. As the sixth installment in the "Ultimate Look" series, it offers comprehensive research, utilizing original sources and technical manuals, along with photographs. The narrative delves into the history of the Douglas Company and its key figures, Donald Douglas and Ed Heinemann, providing an authoritative examination of the Havoc's impact on the air war.

The book delves into the comprehensive history of U.S. aerial armament during World War II, highlighting various weaponry including dive bombers, fighter bombers, and advanced munitions like atomic bombs and guided missiles. It draws from an extensive collection of archives and technical manuals, providing detailed insights into weapons such as rockets, torpedoes, and even unconventional methods like animal aerial weapons. An extensive chapter is dedicated to guided missiles, covering numerous series and drone technologies, making it a definitive resource for military aviation enthusiasts.

Focusing on the often-overlooked contributions of the 5th Fighter Command during WWII, this volume examines air campaigns in the Pacific through a detailed analysis of daily battles. Utilizing over 9,000 newly released documents, it breaks down engagements by Fighter Groups, Squadrons, and individual pilots. The narrative covers the command's early operations in the Philippines, Java, and Australia, progressing through Papua and New Guinea, culminating in the significant reduction of Rabaul in November 1943.

Focusing on U.S. aerial armament during World War II, this volume delves into the evolution of bombs, bombing theory, and strategic applications. It features comprehensive chapters on conventional bombs, fuses, and bomb handling, as well as detailed discussions on bombsights, the role of the bombardier, and various bombing missions and tactics. The book also examines the effects of bombs and miscellaneous ordnance, setting the stage for a future volume that will explore air-dropped and secret aerial weapons.