Tail-End Charlies: The Last Battles of the Bomber War, 1944-45

This is the best book I have read on the World War II bombing campaign over Europe. I almost feel as if I had been a crew member aboard a B-17 or Lancaster. As I progressed through the pages, I could hear the shrapnel hitting the planes and the screams of the wounded. I could feel the shock of a parachute opening, and I could see the burning cities down below. "Tail-End Charlies" feels as real as having cold water thrown in your face. I would like to thank the British and American crew members who flew those dangerous missions over Europe. You helped to defeat an evil power and to end World War II. May your sacrifices be remembered and appreciated.

This is not an account of the whole European bomber offensive but that last 6 - 9 months, and although it covers both US daylight and RAF night offensive it is largly weighted towards the RAF Experience (which it should be if you consider the Tons Dropped and the losses suffered). However I reccomend this book because it is one of the few which tries to provide a accurate assessment of the events at the time without the benefit of hindsight, and avoids the revisionist approach of condemation of the events and the men. It gives a very fair analysis and perspective relating to "Bomber" Harris. and highlights the disgusting postwar treatment and abandonment of the Veterans of Bomber Command, by the British Government

Wonderful, moving, heartrending stories of these heroes and their courage in the face of the most formidable odds.Finished the book in no time and reread many of the incredible stories to my family aloud. We can never repay them. Bless'em all.

The best book on the history of World War II that I've read in a long time. The title has three meanings: 1. It can refer to the gunner at the back of a bomber. The Brits called these people 'Rear Gunners.' The Yanks used the term 'Tail Gunner.' It's the most dangerous position in the plane. 2. The last plane in the formation. This was more true in the American Combat Box than in British usage. This position is difficult to hold because it is at the end of a string and every move by the lead ship propagates irregularily through the formation. It is also more dangerous as enemy fighters can attack this ship more easily since there aren't so many guns pointing that direction. 3. It can refer to the bombing missions near the end of the war. This splendid book covers all three of these meanings. In addition it does an excellent job of discussing the power and importance of air power in the defeat of Germany.

I often read about others that say they "can't put the book down because it is soooooooooooooo captivating". Well, "Tail-end Charlies" did that to me. What a super read. A dose of history and a dose of personal perspectives all in one. It is also an objective perspective relating to "Butch" Harris. Don't pass this one up.