Skyraider: The Douglas A-1 Flying Dump Truck

Skyraider: The Douglas A-1 "Flying Dump Truck" is the story of an basic American military aircraft from its conception in June 1944 by Douglas Aircraft designer Ed Heinemann, to its initial launch nine months later. It was continuously employed by the U.S. Navy and Air Force during Korea and Vietnam. This sturdy, stubby, prop-driven attack plane was a true aeronautical workhorse and called a "flying dump truck" because of its enormous capacity for ordnance to be delivered to the assigned target. Not only did the American armed forces rely on the A-1 but so did allied forces including the British, French, and Swedish. Navy Captain Rosario Rausa brings a special expertise to his aviation history of this remarkable plane from its beginnings down to its last mission (shooting down MiG jets over Vietnam). These stories of the A-1 and the men who piloted it into aviation history is very highly recommended reading for all students of aviation history and military buffs.

CAPT Rausa spent a lot of time researching this work - and even more time strapped into the seat of the Skyraider. The stories, the history, the memories his work rekindles are all tremendous. Some of my stories are reccounted - along with those of officers and men I served with and served under. I loaned my copy to my Dad and found that his Boss was in it! This book is a must for any military aviation afficianado. CWO4 James W. Doran, USN (RET): AOAN, VA-122, A-1E/H/J, 1963-1964 AO3, VA-52, A-1H/J, 1964-1966 AO2, VA-125, A-1E, 1966-1969