World War II
A Pilot's Experience
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About the Book
The men and women who were young adults in WWII have been called "The Greatest Generation". Although they were ordinary people, they accomplished extraordinary things. WW II: A Pilot's Experience tells one such story, the story of an 18 year-old boy from rural Louisiana who volunteered for service, like million of others who responded at their country's time of need. His choice was the US Army Air Force. His story provides an up-close and personal look at the details and rigors of pilot training and preparation for combat.
Like so many of his generation, Lt. Burch was thrust into a position of command and leadership at a tender age. The reader discovers the challenge he experienced as pilot of a crew of 10 young men on a B-17 as it flew into the heat of combat. Strong bonds form between the young men in the face of such challenge.
The adjustments young people made at the time of war are great, yet
the book illustrates the remarkable ability of young people to adapt
at the time of their nation's need. This book illustrates the
adaptations of young civilians to military life, the excellent and
intensive training the young military personnel receive prior to combat,
and their adjustments to civilian life after military service. WW II:
A Pilot's Experience rekindles memories of those who served and is a
vivid personal account of WW II for others. Pictures of many aspects of
the lives of military airmen enhance the story.
About the Author
Robert R. Burch was born in Edgard, Louisiana. He was attending Southwestern Louisiana Institute prior to joining the US Army Air Force during WW II. He served in combat as a B-17 pilot. After WW II he received an MD degree from Tulane University and advanced medical training at Philadelphia General Hospital, Duke University and Tulane. He practiced Internal Medicine and Cardiology in New Orleans for 46 years. He served on the Clinical Faculty at Tulane School of Medicine and retired as Clinical Professor of Medicine. Only after his retirement did he begin non-medical writing.