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The Lucky Seven: One airman’s remarkable true wartime story of escape and evasion from German-occupied Europe, and the brave résistance fighters who delivered him to freedom.
One airman’s remarkable true wartime story of escape and evasion from German-occupied Europe, and the brave résistance fighters who delivered him to freedom.
During the early afternoon hours of April 24, 1944, Second Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. finds himself floating alone toward the war-torn Belgian landscape below. What was his safe passage home, his B-24 Liberator, is now engulfed in flames and hurls to the ground only to report back with a distant thud upon the earth. Just moments earlier, the B-24 and its crew of ten were en route back to England after their inaugural bombing mission and the successful pounding of the Nazi war machine. At the hand of sheer randomness and bad luck, an enemy fighter selected their heavy bomber for retribution from the 230 B-24s dispatched earlier that morning.
Forced to jump for their lives, Goebel and his fellow crew members were now scattered along the Belgium countryside. Soon to be a downed airmen in a hostile enemy occupied territory, the odds of survival are against him. With two men running toward his drifting canopy, Goebel fears he may never see home again.
The Lucky Seven is a gripping true story of escape, evasion and résistance.
During the early afternoon hours of April 24, 1944, Second Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. finds himself floating alone toward the war-torn Belgian landscape below. What was his safe passage home, his B-24 Liberator, is now engulfed in flames and hurls to the ground only to report back with a distant thud upon the earth. Just moments earlier, the B-24 and its crew of ten were en route back to England after their inaugural bombing mission and the successful pounding of the Nazi war machine. At the hand of sheer randomness and bad luck, an enemy fighter selected their heavy bomber for retribution from the 230 B-24s dispatched earlier that morning.
Forced to jump for their lives, Goebel and his fellow crew members were now scattered along the Belgium countryside. Soon to be a downed airmen in a hostile enemy occupied territory, the odds of survival are against him. With two men running toward his drifting canopy, Goebel fears he may never see home again.
The Lucky Seven is a gripping true story of escape, evasion and résistance.
- GenresBiography
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
1 person is currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Norman W. Holden
3 books5 followersFrom concrete laborer to construction executive and author, Norman W. Holden is a no-nonsense patriot raised in the American ethos rooted in hard work, perseverance, and down-to-earth values. A student of life, Norman brings his passion for history, leadership, and personal growth to all of his work. Artfully tapping into his own life experiences, he shares the retelling of very different and impactful personal stories.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 5, 2023
Lucky Seven is biographical fiction set during World-War-Two. I read this book straight after Trial And Tribulation by John Rhodes, in which one of his main characters flew Mosquito aircraft that escorted the larger American bomber planes on their way to Germany.
Lucky Seven is the true story of an American co-pilot of one of those bombers, James Goebel. The story follows Goebel from his later school years, through joining the American Airforce, his training as a pilot and his part of a crew who were shot down over occupied Belgium. Author Norm Holden is Goebel’s son-in-law; he pieced together Goebel’s story from other airmen, historians and from memoirs of both Goebel and another crew member who was part of Goebel’s rescued group.
This tells the story of the brave men and women who worked in the resistance or who showed human kindness in extreme conditions. It doesn’t sugar-coat the casualties and the hardships, but presents this piece of history in a very readable format. This book would be ideal for those interested in real life war stories, historians, and those doing research into the era.
Lucky Seven is the true story of an American co-pilot of one of those bombers, James Goebel. The story follows Goebel from his later school years, through joining the American Airforce, his training as a pilot and his part of a crew who were shot down over occupied Belgium. Author Norm Holden is Goebel’s son-in-law; he pieced together Goebel’s story from other airmen, historians and from memoirs of both Goebel and another crew member who was part of Goebel’s rescued group.
This tells the story of the brave men and women who worked in the resistance or who showed human kindness in extreme conditions. It doesn’t sugar-coat the casualties and the hardships, but presents this piece of history in a very readable format. This book would be ideal for those interested in real life war stories, historians, and those doing research into the era.
January 7, 2024
Completed! Highly recommended. Plan to purchase for my local library and to recommend to my non-fiction local book club.
At 71% … several times I’ve read passages aloud to my hubby with the exclamation … “if this were a novel I would never believe it!” Tomorrow is my non-fiction book club night, so anxious to talk to the librarian about this book. This is a MIST READ! Absolutely fabulous. This book needs more media attention!
36% and will provide updates as I continue to finish The Lucky Seven. If you are looking for a non-fiction book that is better than fiction, look no further. This one is very, very well written and well researched. (I've never gone back and forth between notes - in the back - and the text because I don't want to miss a thing.) The author/Norman Holden is the son-in-law to the late James J. Goebel Jr; he makes this book so interesting. I'm really shocked that their are only a handful of reviews for this book; which was released about 6 months ago. All the details really enhance this book, the route of the team going from US to Germany through Brazil and Africa (and the care around neutral Ireland) is something I was unaware. The US Airmen were getting into it (Goebel connected with the airman - shot down less than two weeks earlier - who previously occupied his bunk, without considering the danger they were putting their rescuers in. Had this detail been in a novel, I would not have believed it. This book reminds me of the Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Ok, back to the book.
Thank you to NetGalley for (yet once again) introducing me to a "new to me author"; I'll try to get to another Holden book once I can get my TBR list under control. Thank you to NetGalley and publisher NWH Holdings, LLC for approving my request to read the advance read copy in exchange for an honest review.
At 71% … several times I’ve read passages aloud to my hubby with the exclamation … “if this were a novel I would never believe it!” Tomorrow is my non-fiction book club night, so anxious to talk to the librarian about this book. This is a MIST READ! Absolutely fabulous. This book needs more media attention!
36% and will provide updates as I continue to finish The Lucky Seven. If you are looking for a non-fiction book that is better than fiction, look no further. This one is very, very well written and well researched. (I've never gone back and forth between notes - in the back - and the text because I don't want to miss a thing.) The author/Norman Holden is the son-in-law to the late James J. Goebel Jr; he makes this book so interesting. I'm really shocked that their are only a handful of reviews for this book; which was released about 6 months ago. All the details really enhance this book, the route of the team going from US to Germany through Brazil and Africa (and the care around neutral Ireland) is something I was unaware. The US Airmen were getting into it (Goebel connected with the airman - shot down less than two weeks earlier - who previously occupied his bunk, without considering the danger they were putting their rescuers in. Had this detail been in a novel, I would not have believed it. This book reminds me of the Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Ok, back to the book.
Thank you to NetGalley for (yet once again) introducing me to a "new to me author"; I'll try to get to another Holden book once I can get my TBR list under control. Thank you to NetGalley and publisher NWH Holdings, LLC for approving my request to read the advance read copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2023
Suit up and strap in for an incredible ride and harrowing close calls when a heavy bomber is mortally wounded and the crew bails out over occupied Belgium in this World War II stunner. Exciting and absorbing, The Lucky Seven is a remarkable story of courage, sacrifice, and heroism. It’s one of the best World War II stories I’ve ever read. And I’ve read a ton.
Grounded in “true wartime events,” The Lucky Seven is the story of First Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. and the brave men and women of the Belgian and French Resistance. Much of the book covers Goebel’s evade and escape experiences after Goebel and his crewmen parachute out of their wounded B-24 over occupied Belgium.
Flying into the teeth of heavy German flak in 1944, the “Ruthless Ruth” B-24 Liberator is hit. With oxygen and all electrical equipment out of commission and a fire on board, the crew has no choice but to bail out of their mortally wounded aircraft. What follows is an incredible tale of evasion, escape, and survival.
When "the lucky seven" finally arrive on foot in Switzerland by walking out of German-occupied Western Europe, they unknowingly become members of the “Blister Club.” Their escape would not have been possible without the support and sacrifice of members of the Belgian and French resistance. This includes a family who risks everything for three young American men. A church that sheltered over a hundred Allied airmen as their final trip into France and Switzerland is coordinated. Hiding in a shed, barns, private homes, farmhouses, and an abandoned theater. A monastery. Much more.
For example, one harrowing experience – there are many – is described in which the Allied airmen, having just crossed the Belgian/French border into France, board a bus. The bus driver stops in front of a German prison to avoid American daytime bombing. German soldiers run around the parked bus as the bombers complete their mission. The Allied airmen are inside the parked bus, sweating bullets. Talk about a nail-biter!
Meanwhile, news from the home front is included as the action shifts back to Brooklyn, New York and the Goebel family home. A May 1944 Western Union telegram is received informing the Goebels that their son James has been reported Missing In Action. It’s enough to wring tears from a turnip.
Compelling and expertly crafted, The Lucky Seven is so well told that after a while, it doesn’t seem like you’re reading. You're suddenly deep behind enemy lines in German-occupied Western Europe with a You Are There feeling. You join the downed Allied airmen in an epic race toward safety as they try to stay one step ahead of the Germans in a desperate and daring escape fraught with peril.
The latter includes not only evading German patrols bent on capturing Allied prisoners, but also dodging German sympathizers and Nazi collaborators. It’s hair-raising. Utterly absorbing. And totally amazing. So are the acts of quiet courage and determined defiance by members of the Belgian and French resistance toward their Nazi occupiers.
Detailed and meticulously researched, The Lucky Seven weighs in at just under four hundred pages. But it doesn’t feel like it. The action skims along briskly. It’ll have readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Jim Goebel and the “lucky seven” through Belgium and France en route to Switzerland and eventual repatriation in London.
It’s a little Twelve O’clock High. A little The Scarlet and the Black. A little Defiance. A bit The Longest Day. Chapters includes dates, times, and locations, so readers can easily track and keep up with the action and events as they unfold. It also includes photos, sketches, cartoons, maps, and other pertinent images.
Supplemental Information on the “flying Mack truck” B-24 Liberator Bomber and the 445th Bomb Group and additional related information is included. Fascinating!
Finally, this is a story that needs to be told. It’s a story that needs to be heard. Inspiring, illuminating, and absorbing, it’ll take your breath away. You’ll want to stand up and cheer by the end of this book! I'd grab a copy now 'fize you.
Grounded in “true wartime events,” The Lucky Seven is the story of First Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. and the brave men and women of the Belgian and French Resistance. Much of the book covers Goebel’s evade and escape experiences after Goebel and his crewmen parachute out of their wounded B-24 over occupied Belgium.
Flying into the teeth of heavy German flak in 1944, the “Ruthless Ruth” B-24 Liberator is hit. With oxygen and all electrical equipment out of commission and a fire on board, the crew has no choice but to bail out of their mortally wounded aircraft. What follows is an incredible tale of evasion, escape, and survival.
When "the lucky seven" finally arrive on foot in Switzerland by walking out of German-occupied Western Europe, they unknowingly become members of the “Blister Club.” Their escape would not have been possible without the support and sacrifice of members of the Belgian and French resistance. This includes a family who risks everything for three young American men. A church that sheltered over a hundred Allied airmen as their final trip into France and Switzerland is coordinated. Hiding in a shed, barns, private homes, farmhouses, and an abandoned theater. A monastery. Much more.
For example, one harrowing experience – there are many – is described in which the Allied airmen, having just crossed the Belgian/French border into France, board a bus. The bus driver stops in front of a German prison to avoid American daytime bombing. German soldiers run around the parked bus as the bombers complete their mission. The Allied airmen are inside the parked bus, sweating bullets. Talk about a nail-biter!
Meanwhile, news from the home front is included as the action shifts back to Brooklyn, New York and the Goebel family home. A May 1944 Western Union telegram is received informing the Goebels that their son James has been reported Missing In Action. It’s enough to wring tears from a turnip.
Compelling and expertly crafted, The Lucky Seven is so well told that after a while, it doesn’t seem like you’re reading. You're suddenly deep behind enemy lines in German-occupied Western Europe with a You Are There feeling. You join the downed Allied airmen in an epic race toward safety as they try to stay one step ahead of the Germans in a desperate and daring escape fraught with peril.
The latter includes not only evading German patrols bent on capturing Allied prisoners, but also dodging German sympathizers and Nazi collaborators. It’s hair-raising. Utterly absorbing. And totally amazing. So are the acts of quiet courage and determined defiance by members of the Belgian and French resistance toward their Nazi occupiers.
Detailed and meticulously researched, The Lucky Seven weighs in at just under four hundred pages. But it doesn’t feel like it. The action skims along briskly. It’ll have readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Jim Goebel and the “lucky seven” through Belgium and France en route to Switzerland and eventual repatriation in London.
It’s a little Twelve O’clock High. A little The Scarlet and the Black. A little Defiance. A bit The Longest Day. Chapters includes dates, times, and locations, so readers can easily track and keep up with the action and events as they unfold. It also includes photos, sketches, cartoons, maps, and other pertinent images.
Supplemental Information on the “flying Mack truck” B-24 Liberator Bomber and the 445th Bomb Group and additional related information is included. Fascinating!
Finally, this is a story that needs to be told. It’s a story that needs to be heard. Inspiring, illuminating, and absorbing, it’ll take your breath away. You’ll want to stand up and cheer by the end of this book! I'd grab a copy now 'fize you.
May 23, 2024
In The Lucky Seven, author Norman W. Holden writes about the experience of his father-in-law, James J. Goebel, Jr., whose B-24 was shot down over Belgian. Goebel would spend months being hidden by the Belgian resistance before finally escaping to Switzerland.
This is one of the most descriptive accounts I have read about the actual process of getting a crew trained in the U.S. to their destination abroad. Over 9,400 miles flown just to arrive in the European Theatre of War. And once there, the long slog of additional training, and waiting for their crew’s pilot to fly the required “co-pilot” missions to be cleared back to his crew for combat. It truly reflects the “hurry up and wait” schedule that frustrated so many airmen.
It is also very detailed regarding the day-to-day lives and routines of airmen who were being assisted by the Resistance. If you’re looking for an action-packed read, this isn’t it because The Lucky Seven accurately reflects the secrecy, hiding, and waiting that so many Allied airmen endured when trying to evade capture by the Nazis. Having read many accounts of airmen assisted by the French Resistance, I was surprised by the many risks taken by the Allied airmen and their Belgian Resistance members, such as going for walks in occupied cities or taking in a movie at a theater frequented by Nazis. I know boredom needed alleviating, but it seemed a tremendous risk, especially to those hiding the men. The Nazis considered such a thing to be a crime punishable by death.
Overall, a well-researched and thorough account about Goebel’s experiences in the war.
This is one of the most descriptive accounts I have read about the actual process of getting a crew trained in the U.S. to their destination abroad. Over 9,400 miles flown just to arrive in the European Theatre of War. And once there, the long slog of additional training, and waiting for their crew’s pilot to fly the required “co-pilot” missions to be cleared back to his crew for combat. It truly reflects the “hurry up and wait” schedule that frustrated so many airmen.
It is also very detailed regarding the day-to-day lives and routines of airmen who were being assisted by the Resistance. If you’re looking for an action-packed read, this isn’t it because The Lucky Seven accurately reflects the secrecy, hiding, and waiting that so many Allied airmen endured when trying to evade capture by the Nazis. Having read many accounts of airmen assisted by the French Resistance, I was surprised by the many risks taken by the Allied airmen and their Belgian Resistance members, such as going for walks in occupied cities or taking in a movie at a theater frequented by Nazis. I know boredom needed alleviating, but it seemed a tremendous risk, especially to those hiding the men. The Nazis considered such a thing to be a crime punishable by death.
Overall, a well-researched and thorough account about Goebel’s experiences in the war.
May 31, 2024
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.com in return for a fair review. Author Norman W. Holden told a vivid and suspenseful story of several airmen who were shot down over occupied-German territory in Belgium. The title, 'Lucky 7', didn't begin to cover it. Centered around James T. Goebel, Jr. who was on his very first flight mission when his plane was shot down, Holden recounts Goebel's day-to-day experience as members of the resistance found him instead of the Nazis. It is hard to imagine anyone who is desperately trying to get to Switzerland under the noses of the enemy. From day one, Goebel and the others, lived in fear for their lives--not knowing who to trust or where their next meal was coming from. Many of the resistance members who helped these men were either murdered or disappeared altogether never to be seen again. It was a harrowing read, but a story that needed to be told. I often wonder when I read these types of books, whether anyone in today's world would be brave enough to risk everything and help a complete stranger. Giving up their ration of food and putting their own lives on the line for harboring them in their homes. Definitely a page turner, I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in World War II history or anyone who might like a good adventure story. It is very hard to imagine what these men, and others like them, went through in the name of freedom. Thank you, Mr. Holden for introducing the world to James T. Goebel, Jr.--a real hero among men.
February 2, 2025
The Lucky Seven tells the incredible wartime story of First Lieutenant James J. Goebel Jr. His journey is one of courage and true heroism that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page.
This book is also a wonderful testament to both the French and Belgian Resistance. At a time when the world was full of chaos and hatred, these groups offered unbelievable kindness despite their own personal hardships and demonstrated acts of true bravery and resilience.
I am fortunate to have visited Normandy, many French and Belgian battlefield sites, and the numerous Commonwealth War Graves cemeteries and memorials - and what is always apparent to me is that we can never grasp the scale of both World Wars, nor comprehend what both servicemen and civilians endured. First Lieutenant James J. Goebel Jr’s story should not be forgotten and I highly recommend this wonderful tribute to him that is ‘The Lucky Seven.’
I cannot finish this review without mentioning the author’s meticulous research and impeccable attention to detail concerning every character and every location featured in the book. A fantastic accomplishment and tribute of which the whole Goebel family should be proud.
I am grateful to the publisher, NWH Holdings, via NetGalley for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is also a wonderful testament to both the French and Belgian Resistance. At a time when the world was full of chaos and hatred, these groups offered unbelievable kindness despite their own personal hardships and demonstrated acts of true bravery and resilience.
I am fortunate to have visited Normandy, many French and Belgian battlefield sites, and the numerous Commonwealth War Graves cemeteries and memorials - and what is always apparent to me is that we can never grasp the scale of both World Wars, nor comprehend what both servicemen and civilians endured. First Lieutenant James J. Goebel Jr’s story should not be forgotten and I highly recommend this wonderful tribute to him that is ‘The Lucky Seven.’
I cannot finish this review without mentioning the author’s meticulous research and impeccable attention to detail concerning every character and every location featured in the book. A fantastic accomplishment and tribute of which the whole Goebel family should be proud.
I am grateful to the publisher, NWH Holdings, via NetGalley for a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2023
Excellent book. Well-written. Even knowing there would be a "happy ending", I still couldn't put it down. It is a must read, especially for those with an interest in WWII history - I would highly recommend it.
August 13, 2023
"The Lucky Seven" by Norman W. Holden is a remarkable testament to the true accounts of valor, sacrifice, and resilience during the tumultuous days of World War II. Rooted in the real-life experiences of First Lieutenant James J. Goebel Jr. and his crew members, this captivating narrative offers readers an authentic and poignant glimpse into the lives of those who faced the harrowing challenges of war.
Holden's dedication to preserving the historical accuracy and authenticity of the events shines through every page of this gripping tale. By drawing upon meticulous research and personal accounts, the author skillfully brings to life the struggles, triumphs, and camaraderie of the crew members. The prologue thrusts us into the heart of Lt. Goebel's parachute descent from a damaged B-24, a real-life moment of peril and courage that sets the tone for the entire narrative.
As the story unfolds, readers are transported to the World War II era, where they witness the crew's experiences both in the air and on the ground. Holden masterfully blends the crew's personal backstories with the larger historical context, providing a rich and immersive reading experience. The depth of character development and the emotional resonance of their journeys serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.
What sets "The Lucky Seven" apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. Holden meticulously weaves together historical events, real-life locations, and genuine accounts, creating a vivid tapestry that honors the memory of those who lived through these events. Through the eyes of Lt. Goebel and his crew, readers gain insight into the challenges they faced, the courage they displayed, and the bonds that formed in the face of adversity.
This book not only serves as a gripping work of historical fiction but also as a tribute to the real individuals who navigated the perils of war. "The Lucky Seven" stands as a testament to the power of true stories, reminding us of the sacrifices and bravery that shaped the course of history. As readers turn the pages, they are invited to embark on a journey through time, guided by the voices of those who were there, and to reflect on the enduring impact of their actions.
Holden's dedication to preserving the historical accuracy and authenticity of the events shines through every page of this gripping tale. By drawing upon meticulous research and personal accounts, the author skillfully brings to life the struggles, triumphs, and camaraderie of the crew members. The prologue thrusts us into the heart of Lt. Goebel's parachute descent from a damaged B-24, a real-life moment of peril and courage that sets the tone for the entire narrative.
As the story unfolds, readers are transported to the World War II era, where they witness the crew's experiences both in the air and on the ground. Holden masterfully blends the crew's personal backstories with the larger historical context, providing a rich and immersive reading experience. The depth of character development and the emotional resonance of their journeys serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.
What sets "The Lucky Seven" apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. Holden meticulously weaves together historical events, real-life locations, and genuine accounts, creating a vivid tapestry that honors the memory of those who lived through these events. Through the eyes of Lt. Goebel and his crew, readers gain insight into the challenges they faced, the courage they displayed, and the bonds that formed in the face of adversity.
This book not only serves as a gripping work of historical fiction but also as a tribute to the real individuals who navigated the perils of war. "The Lucky Seven" stands as a testament to the power of true stories, reminding us of the sacrifices and bravery that shaped the course of history. As readers turn the pages, they are invited to embark on a journey through time, guided by the voices of those who were there, and to reflect on the enduring impact of their actions.
July 13, 2024
James J. Goebel, Jr. (May 19 1923-September 30 2002),was born in Brooklyn,NY,to parents James and Frances Goebel. He loved flying.During WWII, he served in the US Army Air Force as a pilot and officer both stateside and in Europe.He was assigned to a B-24 crew as part of the 16th Bombardment Operational Training Wing. He was assigned to HB (Heavy Bomber) Crew No. DJ-11, where he was copilot, of the Unit 445th Bomb Group/702nd Bomb Squadron.The rest of the crew was pilot Franklin C. Kendziora, navigator Leon Czaplewski,bombardier Robert C.Tucker, engine top turret gunner Donald D. Irvin, radio operator Charles H. Westerlund, waist gunners Irl J. Klinginsmith and Norman C. Mosher, ball turret gunner Charles L. Weymouth and tail gunner Theodore S. Chriss.When their bomber was shot down on 24 April 1944, James successfully evaded capture with the help of the Belgium and French undergrounds.The Comet Line (French: Réseau Comète; 1941–1944) was a Resistance organization in occupied Belgium and France. The Comet Line helped Allied soldiers and airmen shot down over occupied Belgium evade capture by Germans and return to England. The Comet Line began in Brussels, where the airmen were fed, clothed, given false identity papers, and hidden in attics, cellars, and people's homes. A network of volunteers then escorted them south through occupied France into neutral Spain and home via British-controlled Gibraltar.The motto of the Comet Line was "Pugna Quin Percutias", which means "fight without arms", as the organisation did not undertake armed or violent resistance to the German occupation.The men who headed to Switzerland were James Goebel Jr.,Jack Holton, Donald Brinkhurst, Charles Westerlund,Robert Tucker,Solomon and Pavelka, they were known as The Lucky Seven.After WWII, James continued his aviation career, spray flying with the U.S. Agriculture Department, and he joined Eastern Airlines as a commercial pilot in 1951. He wed Joan Ann Stewart on Sept. 20, 1952. Together, they had 7 children, six sons and one daughter. James retired from Eastern in 1983 as a captain.In his honour, Goebel Field Airport was established in Mountain Home,Texas.
January 7, 2024
“The Lucky Seven” is historical fiction that is based on the life (and a true story) of a young American airman, First Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. On April 24, 1944, Goebel’s B-24 is shot down, resulting in his parachuting out of the wreckage and into the Belgium countryside.
Overall, I found this to be a deeply researched and informative story. The author clearly did a lot of research and had a personal connection (author is the son-in-law) to Goebel, which provides authenticity in the tone and details of the story. The pictures and drawings included are also quite amazing and at the end of the book, the author includes some of the details of how he acquired the specifics within the pages. The beginning of this story finds Goebel parachuting out of his B-24. It then flashes back to his childhood, high school years, enlistment, and basic training before moving on to flight training. Find the full blog post at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Overall, I found this to be a deeply researched and informative story. The author clearly did a lot of research and had a personal connection (author is the son-in-law) to Goebel, which provides authenticity in the tone and details of the story. The pictures and drawings included are also quite amazing and at the end of the book, the author includes some of the details of how he acquired the specifics within the pages. The beginning of this story finds Goebel parachuting out of his B-24. It then flashes back to his childhood, high school years, enlistment, and basic training before moving on to flight training. Find the full blog post at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
March 8, 2025
The Lucky Seven is written by Norman W Holden. I have read so many WWII stories lately, and I am a huge fan of reading stories on how people survived various situations. We see Second Lieutenant James J. Goebel We see his journey that starts in school years, to him joining the Airfare. The author covers his training as a pilot. We see the battle that was fought after being shot down in Belgium. This might be one of my favorite memoirs that I have read.
The author has done careful research. He is Goebel's son in law. He has pieced together his story beautifully.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
The author has done careful research. He is Goebel's son in law. He has pieced together his story beautifully.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
May 3, 2024
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy.
An important, extremely detailed, moving account of an U.S. Army Air Forces crewman's harrowing experiences during World War II. On April 24, 1944, Second Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. was shot down over Belgium after a successful B-24 bombing raid .
Goebel and his fellow airmen jumped for their lives, and what followed is a harrowing---and amazingly successful---evasion of Nazi patrols. The author is a son-in-law of Lt. Goebel, and he had access to detailed documentation. A must-read account that I am sure will be made into a movie! I don't see how it can't be.
An important, extremely detailed, moving account of an U.S. Army Air Forces crewman's harrowing experiences during World War II. On April 24, 1944, Second Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr. was shot down over Belgium after a successful B-24 bombing raid .
Goebel and his fellow airmen jumped for their lives, and what followed is a harrowing---and amazingly successful---evasion of Nazi patrols. The author is a son-in-law of Lt. Goebel, and he had access to detailed documentation. A must-read account that I am sure will be made into a movie! I don't see how it can't be.
May 28, 2024
The Lucky Seven - An interesting recounting of the survival of several downed United States Army Air Force and Allied airmen during World War II. The story follows mainly Lt. James J. Goebel, Jr., the copilot of the downed B-24 Ruthless Ruth, in Belgium, on April 24, 1944. Fortunately, the crew A.K.A. DJ-11 survived the death of Ruth. His experiences with the Belgian and French Resistance fighters, his crew, and Allies make an immersing read. Included are supplements and references, as well as what happened to whom. The photographs were distorted on my phone's Kindle app making them difficult to see and read. Source: Netgalley. 5*
December 13, 2023
An inspirational novel about the trials of avoiding capture and escaping from occupied Europe by US and British pilots in WW2. The story will hold your attention and you will find it hard to put down this book. I found it to be a quick and enjoyable read. A great story and book!
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 11, 2024
The Lucky Seven is the true, compelling, inspiring tale of how a group of US Army Air Force aircrew evaded capture after their airplanes were shot down over Nazi occupied Europe during World War 2. It is a story of the daring, bravery and endurance exhibited by a group of very young American men, and the sheer good fortune they occasionally enjoyed, in what were totally alien and often terrifying circumstances; and of the magnificent selflessness, sacrifice and sheer heroism shown by so many ordinary men and women in Belgium and France who came to their aid, offering help, food and shelter despite the risk of betrayal, capture, interrogation under torture and very possibly death at the hands of the occupying force. This exhaustively researched and extensively sourced book is clearly a labour of love for the author, the son-in-law of Second Lieutenant James J. Goebel, Jr who is the main protagonist. It is an important story which deserves the widest possible audience to keep alive the memory of all those, both in the Allied military forces and in the general population of occupied Europe, who gave so much and made so many sacrifices to free the world of Nazi tyranny.
June 13, 2024
I received a free copy via Netgalley.
This was very fact based and just seemed to lack any emotion or tension on what must have been a terrifying journey.
It certainly opened my eyes to the chances that were taken by ordinary people to get allied personal to safety.
Worth a read.
This was very fact based and just seemed to lack any emotion or tension on what must have been a terrifying journey.
It certainly opened my eyes to the chances that were taken by ordinary people to get allied personal to safety.
Worth a read.
May 30, 2024
A very fine WW2 biography, by Norman W. Holden.
The real heroes here are the courageous resistance fighters
who came to the rescue of the downed airmen.
The real heroes here are the courageous resistance fighters
who came to the rescue of the downed airmen.
February 6, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A wonderful and moving story about WWII and one particular pilot who was born to fly, and some of the fellow fighters he met along the way.
A wonderful and moving story about WWII and one particular pilot who was born to fly, and some of the fellow fighters he met along the way.
January 14, 2024
Reviewed by Tom Gauthier for Readers' Favorite
"The Lucky Seven is an authentic, skillfully woven Bayeux tapestry of the aerial war of WWII as seen through the eyes of Lieutenant Goebel, his crew, and the people who interacted with them before the mission and in the aftermath of rescue and captivity. Holden provides not only the accurate physical locations of events but also the emotions, fears, actions, and reactions of the people, bringing the stark realities of history to life for the reader. This is the truest way to honor the millions of the 'greatest generation.'"
"The Lucky Seven is an authentic, skillfully woven Bayeux tapestry of the aerial war of WWII as seen through the eyes of Lieutenant Goebel, his crew, and the people who interacted with them before the mission and in the aftermath of rescue and captivity. Holden provides not only the accurate physical locations of events but also the emotions, fears, actions, and reactions of the people, bringing the stark realities of history to life for the reader. This is the truest way to honor the millions of the 'greatest generation.'"
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