Taming the Taildragger

About the Book

When he earns his wings, Tom Fitzgerald learns that he will not be flying jets, but propeller driven Skyraiders. When he and his nemesis, Dean Claymore, report for duty in Miami, Florida they discover that the old taildragger can deliver tons ordnance; however it is unforgiving of inexperienced aviators. Fortunately Miami offers diversions, such as airline stewardesses, jai alai frontons, and all night cocktail lounges.

When the squadron deploys to the Far East it deals with bizarre aircraft accidents, a humiliating encounter in a Manila bar, and a wacky operation to rescue US citizens from a civil war on Sumatra. Days before they are to return home, Tom and Dean disappear over the Philippines and are feared to be victims of communist guerillas.

Crammed with nonstop aviation adventure, this saga will not let you go until the final page has been turned.

About the Author

Colonel R. L. Upchurch served 31 years as a US Marine Corps pilot, flying AD Skyraiders off carriers and A4 Skyhawks in Vietnam. He now lives in Point Clear, AL with his wife Providence and volunteers as a Tour Guide at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, FL. He is the author of numerous magazine articles on aviation and two other novels: With Flying Colors, recounting the escapades of a group of naval aviation cadets, and Graveyard Spiral, an aviation action/thriller.