David Doyle Books

This second of two volumes on American landing craft of World War II focuses on the larger LCT, LSM, and LST vessels that transported tanks and heavy equipment to the shores of North Africa and Normandy and throughout the Pacific. The need for massive numbers of landing craft capable of disgorging huge numbers of troops and equipment was predicted by the US Army in 1940. Later, the British army estimated that over 2,000 of such vessels would be required for the assault on Europe. The US launched a building campaign to produce these seagoing craft, turning primarily to shipyards and manufacturers located along the American rivers. Ultimately many of these continued to serve the nation's need through Vietnam. Some were even heavily laden with rocket launchers and used for close-in support for troops going ashore.

Detailed photos and data on vehicles and weapon systems used by the US Armed Forces in the Vietnam conflict. číst celé

Though it barely missed being caught and destroyed at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the US Navy's USS Enterprise (CV-6) aircraft carrier took part in every major action of the Pacific War, from the Doolittle Raid to the battles of Midway, Santa Cruz, and Guadalcanal to the Philippine Sea and Leyte. Affectionately known as the "Big E," as well as as the "fightingest ship in the Navy," the Enterprise racked up one of the most impressive tallies of damage to the enemy of any Allied warship during WWII. This book explores Enterprise's design and construction, wartime activities, and ultimate postwar decommissioning and scrapping through carefully researched photos, many of which have never before been published. The clarity and large size of many of the photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, put the reader on the deck of this historic warship throughout its famed history.

USS Lexington (CV-16), a member of the famed Essex class of carriers that made up the backbone of the US Navy's carrier force in WWII, served its nation from WWII into the 1990s. With almost a half-million arrested landings recorded, arguably more naval aviators have landed on its decks than on any other aircraft carrier in the world. Scarred in battle during WWII, the Lexington earned considerable distinction in that war, participating in the sinking of over a million tons of enemy ships and downing hundreds of Japanese aircraft. The history of this famed vessel is presented through over 200 photographs and accompanying narrative. These photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, put the reader on the deck of this historic warship throughout its history.

An illustrated history of one of the US Navy's earliest aircraft carriers

Although not a weapon in the traditional sense of the word, arguably no item in the Allied arsenal contributed as much to the defeat of the Axis during WWII as did the Liberty ships. The 2,710 Liberty ships placed into service between 1941 and 1945 provided a vital link in the supply chain not only of US but also Allied forces during WWII. Although the basic design itself was obsolete even before the first one slid down the builder's ways, it had the advantage of being relatively easy to produce, and simple to operate and maintain. Thus, the vessels were mass-produced by no fewer than eighteen shipyards. Building time, initially 244 days, dropped to forty-two days per ship, although as a publicity stunt the Robert E. Peary was launched four days and fifteen and a half hours after the keel was laid.

Focusing on the Mach 2 Convair B-58 Hustler, this book details its design and development, highlighting the engineering challenges and innovations that led to its creation. It also explores the aircraft's operational history during wartime, showcasing its significance in military aviation. Through in-depth analysis and historical context, readers gain insight into the technological advancements and strategic implications of the B-58 Hustler in the Cold War era.

Focusing on the iconic "Gooney Bird," this illustrated guide delves into the history and significance of the renowned American aircraft from World War II. It highlights its design, operational use, and the affection it garnered from pilots and crews. The book serves as a tribute to the aircraft's legacy, featuring captivating visuals that enhance the exploration of its impact during the war.

Carrying the highest hull number ever assigned to a commissioned US battleship, the Wisconsin was the last of the four Iowa-class battleships--along with the Iowa, New Jersey, and Missouri. The Wisconsin fought through the final year of WWII, saw extensive service during the Korean War, and then was recalled to arms to liberate Kuwait during the Gulf War in 1991. During the latter war, Wisconsin not only loosed its massive 16-inch cannons but launched Tomahawk cruise missiles deep into enemy territory. Finally released from Navy service, the battleship today is a floating museum moored near downtown Norfolk, Virginia. This book, through more than 250 photos, documents the battleship from design and construction, through combat during each of its wars, to its preservation today.

The March 1965 landing of the US Marine Corps at Da Nang, South Vietnam, marked the first large-scale deployment of US forces to the region. From then on, the Marine Corps fought continuously until May 1975, when two Marines became the last US servicemen killed in that war during the Mayaguez battle. With over 200 archival photos, many never before published, the weapons, vehicles, and equipment of the Marines in theater are documented in this volume. Small arms, mortars and artillery, tanks, amphibious, armored and soft-skinned vehicles, helicopters, uniforms, and personal and specialist equipment are featured in superb-quality photos and detailed captions, including photos from such legendary Marine Corps battles as Hue and Khe Sanh.

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules has been in continuous production for over six decades, longer than any other military aircraft in the world, and no end of production is yet in sight. The Hercules has been a part of US combat operations since Vietnam, and the airframe, which began life as a simple transport, has been adapted to a variety of roles, including gunship, electronic warfare, refueling, and rescue. This book chronicles the development and use of the Hercules from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of surviving vehicles, these iconic armored fighting vehicles are explored, and their history is explained.

During WWII, Germany fielded a variety of six- and eight-wheeled armored cars, which were used in numerous ways, including reconnaissance, antitank, infantry support, and other roles. The earliest of these vehicles, the 6-Rad, or six-wheeled vehicles, were based on 6 × 4 truck chassis. Once the limitations of this design became evident, later models utilized specially designed all-wheel-drive power trains, with the final model, the 234 series, incorporating a unibody design. Similarly, armament evolved from 7.92 mm machine gun to 75 mm PaK 40 cannon and 7. 5 cm StuK40 howitzers. Based on the author’s earlier work, through over 250 photographs this volume explores 12 major types of these vehicles and delves into the subtle changes made during production.

The design, development, and evolution of the Bell UH-1 Huey in combat during the Vietnam War.Few implements of war are as representative of the US presence in Vietnam as the Bell Huey UH-1-series helicopters. Whether serving in the role of troop transport for airborne assault, supply transports, aerial gunships, or medical evacuation, the Huey was seemingly everywhere. The versatile aircraft, officially the "Iroquois," was affectionately known to all as the "Huey," a name derived from its early model designation of HU-1A. The Huey, later redesignated UH-1, was a mainstay during America's presence in Vietnam, and 11 Huey crewmen earned the Medal of Honor. This comprehensive volume details the complete, colorful, and important history of this iconic helicopter and the men who flew it.

USS Lexington (CV-2) was just the second US Navy aircraft carrier produced. This Legends of Warfare illustrated history is the perfect companion to the author's earlier work on USS Lexington (CV-16).

A visual history of USS Intrepid , one of the most visited museum ships in the world!USS Intrepid , the "Fighting I," was one of America's longest-serving aircraft carriers. Launched during WWII, Intrepid and her crews weathered kamikazes, torpedoes, and typhoons throughout three years of heavy combat. With her days at sea over, Intrepid first hosted the Navy exhibits during the US bicentennial celebrations in 1976, before finding a new home as the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum on the Hudson River waterfront in New York City.

The complete history of the P-61 "Black Widow," one of the most advanced and most sinister-looking fighter aircraft of the Second World War.The striking P-61 Black Widow was the first purpose-built American night fighter. Designed by Jack Northrop and Vladimir Pavlecka, the P-61's menacing appearance was matched by the plane's advanced technology and fearsome weaponry. Interestingly, the Widow is credited with the final aerial kill of the war. Part of the Legends of Aviation series, this book—by prolific author David Doyle—tells the story of the Black Widow from the experimental XP-61 on through the final production variant, the F-15A.

The Consolidated PBY is the most readily recognized and widely produced flying boat design ever made. The aircraft, which came to be known as the Catalina, has it origins in Consolidated's 1932 Model 28. The US Navy began taking deliveries of the PBY-5A in October 1941 and then placed orders for over 600 more following Pearl Harbor. During WWII, PBYs conducted anti-submarine warfare, patrol bombing, convoy escort, search-and-rescue operations, and cargo transport. Some PBY-5As went to the US Army and others to US Allies - Australia, Britain, Canada and the Free French forces. This book presents a comprehensive view of the Catalina with 170 photographs, color profiles and detailed line drawings.

The book offers an illustrated exploration of the F-104 Starfighter, renowned for its high-speed interception capabilities and notorious reputation as the "widowmaker." It delves into the aircraft's design, operational history, and the challenges faced by pilots. Rich visuals complement detailed descriptions, highlighting the technical innovations and historical significance of this remarkable jet fighter. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, it provides a comprehensive look at both the triumphs and tragedies associated with the F-104.

The LVT(4), also known as the "Alligator," was a groundbreaking amphibious vehicle designed for military use during World War II. Developed by philanthropists Donald and John Roebling, it played a crucial role in the Pacific campaign, capable of navigating challenging terrains like coral reefs and swamps. The innovative rear ramp design allowed for easier troop deployment. With over 8,000 units produced by various manufacturers, the book features archival and detailed photographs that highlight the history and significance of this iconic vehicle, of which only a few remain today.

Powered by a massive Ford V-8 engine, the M4A3 Sherman was the standard tank of the US Army during the later stages of WWII, as well as the Korean War. The M4A3 was also supplied to the Marines during WWII, when the Corps faced a shortage of their preferred M4A2. The M4A3 was used by both services during the Korean War and was supplied in large numbers to Allied nations during the post-WWII rebuilding process. This book chronicles the development and use of these vehicles from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of surviving vehicles, these iconic armored fighting vehicles are explored, and their history is explained.

This book documents the development and production of the M4A1 through its many variations, as well as its combat use around the globe. Produced by Lima Locomotive Works, Pressed Steel Car Company, and Pacific Car and Foundry, the M4A1 was the first of the famed Sherman tanks and preceded the welded-hull M4 into production. Powered by a nine-cylinder, air-cooled radial engine, the M4A1 fought in North Africa with both US and British forces, across northwestern Europe, and on Pacific Islands with both the Army and the Marines, serving well into the 1950s. The evolving design went through three major hull designs, multiple turret designs, and armament with either a 75 mm or 76 mm gun--all of which are detailed in this book. Extensive archival photographs are augmented by stunning color images of preserved tanks, taking the reader around and inside this famed warhorse. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

A concise, visual guide to Porsche's giant tank hunter.

An illustrated guide to one of the most important US military helicopters

A Legends of Warfare guide to the most iconic military flying boat ever produced.

This new book provides a visual guide to every F-15 variant, from the first airframes produced in the early 1970s to the brand new F-15EX Eagle II.

This new book on the SR-71 provides a excellent compliment to Schiffer Military's "Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird: The Illustrated History of America's Legendary Mach 3 Spy Plane" by James Goodall, which is a much larger, more expensive book; this also serves as a replacement for the strong-selling book on the aircraft by Bill Holder, which was released in 2002 and is now out of print.

This is the 2nd edition of this title, and has nearly doubled in size from the previous edition, published 10 years ago. Twice as many photos and pages have been added, making this the most comprehensive guide on the subject.. 1,000 b/w photos with an 8 page color section.

The B-17 Flying Fortress is one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history. Through a broad range of photos gathered from around the world, this book, the first of a two-volume series, chronicles the design, development, and wartime use of the early models of the Flying Fortress, from the ill-fated experimental model 299 through the B-17D, including the famous "Swoose." These early models are distinguished by their narrow fuselage, art deco styling, and a small, "shark fin" tail. A second volume will continue the B-17 story with the large-tail later models, B-17E through B-17H. The story of these iconic WWII aircraft is told through carefully researched photos, many of which have never before been published, and which are reproduced in remarkable clarity. Large, clear photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, unlock the secrets of this aircraft.

"This is the first-ever collection of images and data on German Military vehicles! Packed with never-before-seen photos and recently-discovered technical data, Standard Catalog of German Military Vehicles delivers comprehensive coverage of the most revered and feared war machines of WWII. Covering everything from the famous Tiger tanks to obscure and peculiar hybrids, motorcycles and tracked vehicles, this all-encompassing reference is a must-have for any military historian, military vehicle enthusiast or military modeler. With historical information behind each of the 200 featured vehicles, as well as specifications for each and more than 1,000 detailed photographs - Standard Catalog of German Military Vehicles is the best, biggest and most complete book on the market!"

The history of the design, development, and deployment of the famed WWII battleship USS Alabama !The fourth and final battleship in the South Dakota class, the USS Alabama served in both the Atlantic and Pacific during World War II, participating in many of the most famous battles of the war. Armed with nine 16-inch guns, 20 5-inch guns, and a myriad of 40 mm and 20 mm weapons, Alabama was one of the most powerful warships afloat. Through carefully researched archival documents and photographs, the history of this iconic warship and the men who crewed it is presented in this profusely illustrated volume.

The Hummel ("bumblebee") and Nashorn ("rhinoceros") are two of Nazi Germany's most widely recognized self-propelled artillery pieces. The Hummel, with its heavy field howitzer, was indispensable as heavy field artillery despite its open-top fighting compartment. The Nashorn, also known as the Hornisse ("hornet"), utilized the same chassis but mounted the formidable 88 mm antitank gun, becoming one of the most feared pieces of antitank artillery, or Panzerjäger ("tank hunter"). This book chronicles the development and use of these vehicles from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of surviving vehicles, these iconic armored fighting vehicles are explored, and their history is explained.

Developed to provide the US military with a fast-moving reconnaissance vehicle sufficiently armed to knock out WWII-era armored vehicles. The M8 Armored Car and its sibling, the M20 Armored Utility Vehicles, were the most widely used armored vehicles built by Ford. These vehicles saw use with the US Army as well as Allied nations during WWII and well into the 1960s. This book chronicles the development and use of the vehicle from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of these vehicles, this iconic tank is explored, and its history is explained.

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history. Through a broad range of photos gathered from around the world, this book—the second of two volumes—chronicles the design, development, and wartime use of the late models of the Flying Fortress, from the first truly combat-capable model, the B-17E, to the lifesaving B-17H. These B-17 versions featured the so-called "large" tail and were famously used in the devastating strategic-bombing campaign against Germany. As a special feature, detailed coverage of the famed "Memphis Belle" is included. Combine volumes 1 and 2 for the complete photographic reference on the Flying Fortress.

The F4F and FM Wildcat aircraft was the US Navy's front-line fighter in the early days of WWII. This iconic aircraft was designed and produced by Grumman, as well as the newly-formed Eastern Aircraft Division of General Motors. As larger and more powerful fighters joined the fleet in the later stages of the war, the Wildcat remained in the fray, flying from the decks of escort carriers, which were too small to permit the operation of the later aircraft. The Wildcat was remarkable not only because it served through the duration of the war, but also because it was the mount of some of the nation's most distinguished aces, including Butch O'Hare and Joe Foss.

This volume is the most detailed study yet presented of the M3 Lee/Grant tanks, illustrating and describing the development, production, and use of these iconic vehicles by US, Commonwealth, and Russian forces during WWII. The tanks, their power plants, and production techniques used by each manufacturer are shown from assembly line to front line through this profusely illustrated book, including numerous never before published vintage photos.

The current economic climate has meant that cost control is firmly back on the corporate agenda. This edition maintains that all too often, costs are cut in a way that is actually detrimental to the company in the short and long-term. The author highlights and examines the many pitfalls managers face, and suggests a more flexible model which will offer stability and sustainability in the modern global marketplace. Getting maximum results out of organisational resources while minimising costs will continue to rank as one of the main strategic issues facing managers for many generations to come.

The development and combat history of the twin-engine, twin-boom, Lockheed P-38 Lightning from the first flight of the XP-38 in January 1939 through a succession of models, ending with the electronic-laden two-seat P-38M. Created on the drawing boards of two of America's most notable aircraft designers - Hall Hibbard and Clarence 'Kelly' Johnson - the P-38 Lightning was the only US pursuit plane to remain in continuous production throughout WWII. In the Southwestern Pacific, the P-38 served as the USAAF's primary long-range fighter prior to the arrival of the P-51D Mustang. Top American air aces and Medal of Honor winners Richard Bong and Thomas McGuire both flew Lightnings, and it was a P-38 that brought down Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto's plane in April 1943. The Lightning saw service in Europe too, and it was after flying a P-38 to assess the progress of the Normandy Invasion in 1944, that US Lt. Gen. Jimmy Doolittle referred to the Lightning as "the sweetest-flying plane in the sky." Illustrated with nearly 150 period photographs, a third of them rare original color photos, plus color profiles and detailed line drawings. 72 pages.

The Mekong Delta's marshlands provided strategic advantages for Viet Cong forces, while the Mobile Riverine Force became central to the American Brown Water Navy's operations. The dense jungles across Vietnam hindered allied troop movements, leading to a greater reliance on helicopters for various military functions, including troop transport, cargo delivery, medical evacuations, and aerial combat support. This dynamic landscape shaped the tactics and logistics of the Vietnam War.

The narrative follows Boris Rus, a young man from Fiume, Italy, as he engages in unconventional warfare against the German and Axis Powers during World War II. The story shifts dramatically from his acts of resistance to his harrowing experiences in the Dachau concentration camp. This poignant account reveals the brutal realities of survival and the unforeseen events that unfold in the aftermath of war, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, this book delves into the operations of the US military branches, including the Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Army, as they deployed various fixed-wing aircraft. It highlights their missions against numerous targets, the challenges posed by North Vietnamese Migs, and the constant danger from Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) and antiaircraft fire, offering a detailed look at aerial combat and strategy during this tumultuous period.

Despite the limitations of the Washington Naval Treaty, the USS Indianapolis was an imposing warship. It was widely used by US dignitaries in the 1930s, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who sailed aboard the ship many times. After the outbreak of World War II, she saw service near Alaska before moving into waters nearer the Japanese home islands. There, she was struck by a kamikaze and forced to return to the US for repairs. Upon completion of the repairs, Indianapolis was selected to transport components of the "Little Boy" atomic bomb from mainland US to Tinian in the Mariana Islands. On the return journey, she was torpedoed and sunk by a Japanese submarine, becoming the last large warship lost by the US during World War II. Delay in the mission to recover surviving crew resulted in the largest loss of life aboard a single ship in US Navy history. The sinking of the Indianapolis remains surrounded in controversy, and the wreck was not located until 2017.

The M3 Lee was America's first mass-produced combat tank. Its unusual configuration of hull-mounted 75 mm gun and turret-mounted 37 mm cannon was a result of the rush to get the vehicle in production following Nazi Germany's rapid advances in Europe. Following heavy British tank losses in France, the Commonwealth turned to the US to bolster their tank stocks, and the M3 was adapted, through the use of a different turret style, to fill this need. Later, as more-advanced tanks became available, notably the M4 Sherman, the M3s were adapted to fill other roles. This book chronicles the development and use of these vehicles from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of surviving vehicles, these iconic armored fighting vehicles are explored, and their history is explained.

The M18 was developed in an era when the United States fought tanks not with other tanks, but with specialized tank destroyers. With a powerful aircraft-style radial engine pushing it at up to 50 miles per hour, and mounting a potent 76 mm cannon, the Buick-built M18 Hellcat, or "Hell-Cat" as Buick's publicists named it, provided US troops with a powerful shoot-and-scoot answer to heavily armored German tanks. Further experiments were conducted to increase its armament or adapt it to other uses, such as the M39 armored utility vehicle. Through dozens of archival images, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of these vehicles, this iconic tank hunter is explored, and its history is explained. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

Even today, almost eighty years after its first flight, the North American P-51 Mustang remains one of the most famous and recognizable aircraft in the world. Nimble and fast, qualities that lead the Mustang to be used even today in air races, the aircraft was forged in battle. This, the second of two volumes on this iconic aircraft, explores the "bubbletop" versions that helped bring the war to the German and Japanese homelands. These Mustangs were widely used escorting Allied bombers deep into the enemy homeland. The story of this historic fighter is told through carefully researched archival photos, as well as photographs of preserved examples, illuminated through detailed captions, thereby illustrating not only the use of the late WWII Mustang, but also the details of its construction. Large, clear photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, put the reader on the airfield and in the sky with this historic aircraft.

The M24 Chaffee was the finest light tank developed by the US during WWII. Utilizing the M24 chassis--developed by Cadillac--the US Army procured a family of fighting vehicles, including the M19 Twin 40 mm Gun Motor Carriage, the M37 105 mm Howitzer Motor Carriage, and the M41 155 mm Howitzer Motor Carriage, all of which are covered in this second volume on the Chaffee. While all of these motor carriages were too late to see combat in WWII, all were widely used during the Korean War, with many at the front of the fighting. This book chronicles the development and use of these vehicles from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of these vehicles, this iconic tank hunter is explored and its history is explained.

"Initially developed to combat armored vehicles, in time the type evolved into an infantry support tank. Although production of the Panzer III ended in 1943, the type remained in service through the end of the war. Through over 160 photos, this volume chronicles the design, development, and deployment of this ubiquitous German tank. This material is arranged in nine chapters, each focusing on a specific production model, or Ausfrüng, of the tank. Comprehensive tables reveal the details of the performance and technical specifications of each variant. Part of the Legends of Warfare series"--provided by publisher.

While initally labeled as a troublesome aircraft, the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver went on to be noted for striking more Japanese targets than any other US Navy dive bomber. Despite this, the Helldiver was to be the last of a long line of US Navy dive bombers. The development, production, and combat use of the many variations of the Helldiver are examined, including experimental variants that did not progress beyond the prototype stage. Profusely illustrated with war-era photographs, both black-and-white and color, which are augmented with beautiful color photos of the only remaining flyable example, this book provides the reader with a concise yet thorough study of this legendary aircraft. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

Powered by twin General Motors diesel engines, the M4A2 Sherman was the standard tank of the US Marine Corps during WWII. In such service, having a common fuel with many of the landing craft simplified logistics. The M4A2 was also supplied in large numbers to Russia as well as the British. The M4A2 was used in some of the most severe tank combat of the war, both on Pacific islands and on the Eastern Front. This book chronicles the development and use of these vehicles from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of surviving vehicles, these iconic armored fighting vehicles are explored, and their history is explained.

The United States, being at peace, had not foreseen the need for a specialized tank recovery vehicle, despite the ramping up of tank production in 1940-1941. However, observation of the new world war quickly pointed to the need for such a vehicle. Armored vehicles, immobilized for any reason, were easily destroyed by opposing troops, denying the possibility for recovery and repair or even the salvaging of parts after the battle. This book chronicles the development and use of the US and British military's Sherman tank-based armored recovery vehicles.

Through historic photos, this volume traces the development, production and deployment of this iconic piece of military equipment from the drawing boards to the battlefields of Europe in World War II.

This first of two volumes presents the P-38 story by focusing on the early models of this historic fighter--XP-38 through P-38H. Each type is examined through carefully researched archival photos, as well as photographs of currently preserved examples. Known to the enemy during World War II as the "Fork-tailed devil," the Lockheed P-38 Lightning was piloted by those who were charged with the responsibility of escorting American bombers deep over heavily defended Europe during the early years of the air campaign against Nazi Germany. Detailed text and captions illustrate not only the design and construction of the early-war Lightnings, but also their combat use in WWII. Large, clear photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, put the reader on the airfield and in the sky with this historic aircraft. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

The Grumman F6F Hellcat formed the backbone of America's carrier-based fighter force as the Allies pressed the war toward Japan. Powered by a massive and reliable Pratt & Whitney radial engine, the Hellcat racked up an incredible 19:1 kill ratio against its foes in WWII, and 305 aviators earned ace status while flying the Hellcat. Such famed US naval aces as David McCampbell, Cecil Harris, Eugene Valencia, and Alex Vraciu all flew the Hellcat. In addition to its wing-mounted .50-caliber machine guns, the F6F was equipped to carry bombs as well, allowing pilots to deliver up to 2,000 pounds of bombs on targets. By the time that Hellcat production ended in November 1945, 12,275 examples had rolled off Grumman's Bethpage, Long Island, assembly line. Through carefully researched photos, many never before published, the history and details of this iconic aircraft are revealed. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

The Boeing B-29 Superfortress was not only the largest and most advanced US aircraft to see combat in World War II, it was also the most expensive weapons system of the war, even exceeding the cost of developing the atomic bomb--the weapon that ultimately would be delivered to Hiroshima and Nagasaki by a pair of B-29s in August 1945. Through a broad range of photos gathered from around the world, this book, the first of a two-volume series, chronicles the design, development, and World War II combat of the iconic Superfortress. The story of this historic aircraft is told through carefully researched photos, which are reproduced in remarkable clarity. Large, clear photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, unlock the secrets of this aircraft.

The Grumman-designed TBF Avenger was unquestionably the most successful torpedo bomber in the US fleet during WWII. Developed just prior to the US entry in WWII, the type made its combat debut at the Battle of Midway. Demand for the large carrier-borne aircraft, which could drop conventional bombs and depth charges in addition to torpedoes, soon outstripped Grumman's capacity. To supply the needed aircraft to the US Navy, the US Marines, and the Royal Navy, the Eastern Aircraft Division of General Motors was contracted to build duplicate aircraft, which were designated TBM. With numerous adaptations, both the TBF and TBM continued to serve militaries well after WWII. Through carefully researched photos, many of which have never before been published and which are reproduced in remarkable clarity, the history and details of this iconic aircraft are revealed and put the reader in the skies with this historic aircraft.

The M4A4, also known at the Sherman V, with its unusual 30-cylinder Multi-Bank engine, was the type of Sherman most widely used by Commonwealth forces during WWII. Additionally, many US tankers were trained using this type of tank. The tank went on to become the basis for the famed Firefly, Crab, and DD amphibious variants of the Sherman. This book chronicles the development and use of the vehicle from concept to combat. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of these vehicles, this iconic tank is explored, and its history is explained.

The General Motors Corporation DUKW was without a doubt the most successful amphibious military vehicle ever constructed. This is due in large part to the enormous amount of scientific and engineering talent that was devoted to the project. Included in the design team were America's Cup winner Rod Stephens, adventurer and environmentalist Dennis Puleston, and scientist and engineer Palmer C. Putnam. The DUKW was so successful and so widely used that Gen. Dwight Eisenhower described it as "one of the most valuable pieces of equipment produced by the United States during the war". This book chronicles the development and use of these vehicles from concept to combat in WWII and Korea. Through dozens of archival photos, many never before published, as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest existent examples of surviving vehicles, these iconic armored fighting vehicles are explored, and their history is explained.

The largest and most advanced US aircraft to see combat in WWII, the B-29 Superfortress was also the most expensive weapons system of the war, even exceeding the cost of developing the atomic bomb. Not surprisingly, the aircraft remained a part of the US arsenal in the following years and again saw combat in Korea. The evolution of the B-29 into the B-50 is covered in this book--the second of two volumes--as is the B-50's part as an early nuclear deterrent. Not only is the production of these aircraft illustrated, so are the host of adaptations, from mother ship to X-planes to weather and refueling aircraft. This volume chronicles the design, development, and deployment of these later versions through photos gathered from around the world.

Chronicles the design, development, and wartime use of this famous American attack bomber.The A-20 Havoc, known to the British as the Boston, was built by Douglas and Boeing during WWII and arguably became the most famous of the attack aircraft fielded by the United States during that war. Written David Doyle, author of over 125 books, this comprehensive volume is part of the popular Legends of Warfare series.

A Legends of Warfare guide to Douglas's high-powered attack bomber

The M42 Duster is the subject of a new entry in the Legends of Warfare series. Legends of Warfare titles are hardcover pictorials about military vehicles, which retail at attractive price points from $19.99 to $24.99. They are popular with modelers, gamers, and museumgoers.

The Pershing was the American answer to the famous German Panther and Tiger tanks. This book is a complete photo history of the mighty Pershing and its variants.

This is a detailed visual guide of the M60 tank; 340 photos both show the vehicle's design details and help readers visualize the tank's operational history.

A pictorial guide to the powerful M48 Patton. The M48 is a versatile tank that saw combat with the US military in Vietnam and remains in service in large numbers with foreign militaries all over the world.

With a midengined configuration, sturdy tricycle landing gear, and nose-mounted 37 mm cannon, the Bell P-39 was a thoughtful and innovative design. However, the plane lacked the all-out performance of some other key fighters available to Allied fliers (e.g., Spitfire, Hellcat, Mustang), particularly at altitude. Largely rejected by British and American combat squadrons, the Airacobra was much better received in the Soviet Union, where the Red Air Force successfully deployed large quantities of the type against the Luftwaffe. This new entry in the Legends of Warfare series features detailed photographic coverage of all variants of the Airacobra, including prototypes, trainer versions, production models C through Q, and the P-400.

The Grumman F8F was a fast, agile, carrier-borne fighter aircraft developed as the ultimate dogfighter for the Pacific Theater. This is the most complete collection of Bearcat photography in print.

This is the most complete and up-to-date reference on the tracked amphibious vehicles deployed by the United States Marine Corps

A visual history of Krupp's terrifying long-range artillery piece

USS Kidd (DD-661) is the only Fletcher-class destroyer preserved in WWII configuration. With 175 total ships launched, the Fletchers were the most numerous and most impactful class of destroyers in the US Navy during the Second World War. DD-661 was named for RAdm. Isaac C. Kidd , who was killed onboard the Battleship Arizona at Pearl Harbor. USS Kidd saw action in both the Atlantic and in the Pacific. In April 1945, the ship was seriously damaged by a Kamikaze strike. Kidd was recommissioned during the Korean War, and finally decommissioned for the final time in 1964. The interior and exterior of the ship have been painstakingly restored and preserved in Baton Rouge by the Louisiana Naval War Memorial Commission. This work uses color photography to provide readers an illustrated tour of the ship, above and below deck.

This book illustrates the history and US military service of this weapon system from its advent in the early 1950s through the first Gulf War. Widely used in Vietnam, where it had the longest range of any land-based artillery, the M107 and M110 series of vehicles, formed the backbone of US self-propelled artillery.

This book explores the mechanical details and military use of the M911 C-HET and M1070/M1070A1 HETS and their associated trailers. These vehicles are tasked with transporting the US Army’s heaviest weapons—the M1 Abrams tank and other armored vehicles. In a departure from previous generations of tank transporters, which were designed especially for this task and built at great expense, the vehicles in this volume utilize numerous components from the civil market in order to lower cost and ease maintenance. The Oshkosh M911 C-HET and the M747 trailer typically used with it are first examined, then the newer M1070, M1070 armored cab conversion, M1070A1, and M1070F and the M1000 trailer used with the M1070-series tractors are studied. These heavy haulers are revealed in outstanding detail in this volume, which features both combat and detail photos. Hundreds of color and black-and-white photos put the reader in, on, over, and under these massive machines.

Featuring sloping armor and armed with a powerful 75 mm gun, Germany’s Panther tank was developed as a counter to the Soviet T-34. Entering production in 1943, the Panther was intended to become Germany’s standard medium tank. Although featuring potent armament and excellent armor, the Panther was hampered by disruptive production and drivetrain maintenance requirements. Produced in three variants, by three firms (MAN, Daimler-Benz, and MNH), the roughly 6,000 Panthers were used on the Eastern Front, in Italy, and from Normandy to Berlin. In this greatly expanded edition of the author’s earlier work, almost 250 photos are used to present the Panther from the factory to the battlefield in considerable detail.

Designed to counter the threat of a massed Soviet armored assault, the M50 Ontos showed its merit in the jungles and streets of Vietnam. Ontos grew out of Project Vista, the secret study of possible improvements to NATO defenses. Project Vista identified the need for an inexpensive, heavily armed “something” to thwart waves of Soviet armor. Armed with six powerful recoilless rifles, the diminutive M50 was given the name “Ontos,” an Army mistranslation of Greek for “the Thing.” Initially, the Army felt that the Allis-Chalmers T165E1 (later standardized as the M50) was the thing to fill the recommendation of Project Vista. Ultimately, and after some controversy, the Army lost interest in the vehicle, but the United States Marine Corps believed in the vehicle, and in 1955 the M50 entered production. While the Corps first used the Ontos in Santo Domingo in 1965, it would rise to fame in Vietnam, where the M50, as well as the modernized M50A1, saw considerable use as antipersonnel weapons and in perimeter defense. On the streets of Hue, Marines made considerable use of the Ontos, blasting open walls and using antipersonnel rounds to create faux smoke screens. Over 270 photos, many in color, chronicle the development, production, combat use, and details of this famed vehicle and the men who used them.

Covid19 has had a profound impact on the world we live in. A child at the window is a depiction in diary form of the emotional impact of Covid19 of the lives of children. Different days bring different activities, different connections and drive different emotions. There is fun, longing, anxiety, happiness and everything in between. No one emotion dominates but each is present within the emotional rollercoaster that occurred. It explores the condensed variety of emotions that Covid19 introduced to us all, as seen through the eyes of a child.

Based on an adaptation of the White Scout Car, the US half-track vehicles of WWII combined the cross-country ability of a fully tracked vehicle with the road performance of a medium truck. A myriad of variations of these vehicles were produced, including prime movers, armored personnel carriers, mortar carriers, and a wide range of heavily armed variants. Antiaircraft versions were often used against ground targets with devastating results. In fact, despite half-track production ending in March 1944, demand for half-track vehicles mounting quadruple .50-caliber machine guns was so great during the Korean War that additional examples were produced through the wholesale modification of personnel carriers. Although phased out of service by the US military in the late 1950s, the Israeli forces continued to use these remarkable vehicles through the 1980s. This volume includes coverage of the vehicles produced by Autocar, Diamond T, and White for use by US forces, as well as the similar International Harvester–built vehicles supplied to our allies through Lend-Lease. Illustrated with over 200 vintage photos, as well as line drawings and color profiles.

The M10 was a fast tank destroyer based on the Sherman chassis. The Achilles was a British adaptation of the M10.

The North American B-25 Mitchell was one of the premier US warplanes of WWII. It gained immortality early in the US involvement in the war when a small group of B-25Bs under Lt Col. Jimmy Doolittle took off from the deck of the USS Hornet and executed a surprise attack on military targets on the Japanese island of Honshu. Subsequently, Mitchells saw service in every theater of war, doing duty as tactical bombers, coastal patrol aircraft, photo-reconnaissance and photo-mapping planes, and, when fitted with additional guns and rockets, superb ground- and shipping-attack platforms. The US supplied B-25s to the British Royal Air Force and to the Soviet Union, which flew them against the Nazis on the Eastern Front. The career of the Mitchell is covered from the experimental NA-40 prototype to the final production B-25J model. US Marine Corps PBJ versions are also chronicled. Eight all-new pages of photos and information fill out this latest edition.

Kniha poskytuje čtenáři přehled o všech obrněných vozidlech, která používaly jednotky Wehrmachtu i SS během druhé světové války. Více než 300 stran textu, který doprovází přes 400 fotografií, z nichž mnohé nebyly doposud zveřejněny, činí z této knihy nejobsáhlejší dílo na toto téma. David Doyle jako zkušený autor sestavil publikaci ideální pro historika i modeláře, v níž nabízí technické informace, fotografie a historii nasazení: obrněných automobilů polopásových vozidel tanků útočných děl stíhačů tanků Jagdpanzer a Panzerjäger samohybných děl, houfnic a minometů protiletadlových vozidel plamenometných vozidel vyprošťovacích vozidel obrněných ženijních vozidel