Don't Let the Blue Star Turn Gold: Downed Airmen in Europe in WWII

This is a very well written and researched collection of World War II stories about downed airmen from the 485th Bomb Group, 15th Air Force, flying out of Italy. This volume provides a number of features that you won't find in most books from this genre. First, and most impressively, Whiting has managed "crossed the water" to uncover sources in Europe who could add their perspective to what happened to the downed Americans on the ground. Second, after each story, Whiting provides an interesting background piece describing his research and interviews on the topic involved. Third, Whiting often provides interesting stories about those who waited at home for their loved ones to return, an often neglected aspect of World War II histories. Finally, Whiting is most scrupulous about writing only the facts that he can prove. There is no invented dialoge to fill in gaps or add dramatic tension. None is needed, as the stories speak for themselves. My favorite chapter, the longest, is "Down over Auchwitz," the moving story of a crew shot down near the infamous camp. This chapter alone is worth the price of the book.

In reading the first three pages of the prologue, I'd have to admit, chills went up my spine... I was beginning to feel the full weight of the unselfish sacrifices these young men, like so many others like them made during this period of war. This book truly brings the reader through a whole range of emotions. The stories that are told by those who survived along with letters sent home on the behalf of those that didn't, are very powerful. I found myself thinking more then once how men of such a young age themselves, could be writing such caring and mature letters home to the parents of their lost crewmates. These young men certainly evolved fast. I pray that the same Spirit and Courage is still alive in our youth today. A very well researched book and delivered to the reader with great feelings. Thank you Jerry, I am glad you were finally able to tell "THEIR" untold story.

A fine story of men in wartime. The reasearch from Mr Whiting as always is amazing. He goes to the ends of the earth for the reader.

I recommend this book for anyone interested in a bomber crew's fate after being shot down. I did not realize how many friendlies were in the Europeon Theater at that time to help these guys dodge the enemy and make it back safely. I am the grandson of a bomber crew co-pilot, and even though I've been told of many stories (probably "sugar coated"), this book doesn't hold back.