In the Shadow of Eagles: From Barnstormer to Alaska Bush Pilot, a Flyer's Story

by Jim Rearden, Rudy Billberg

In the Shadow of Eagles is a uniquely American saga. Rudy Billbergs story takes readers through the great age of aviation, from his first airplane ride in Minnesota in 1927 to his bush flying career in Alaska beginning in 1941. One of the authentic aviation pioneers, Billberg writes of his countless adventures and close calls during the decades; stunt flying in Midwestern air shows, flying out of Nome into the frozen Arctic, and more. Filled with history and insight, Billbergs narrative chronicles the lives of many of his fellow Alaskan pilots, including the great pioneer airmen Joe Crosson, Harold Gillam, Noel Wien and Sam White, and tells of the early flying machines they all flewTravel Airs, Pilgrims, Fairchilds, Bellancas. Rudy Billberg has given us a great story of his time.

352 pages, ebook

First published April 1, 1992

Reviews

[Ingrid · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid, true auto-biography of an adventurous life by someone that humbly, it seems, did what he loved, with extreme integrity; and was richly rewarded. The first 1/2 was a little slow for me, but the last 1/2 made up for it. I'm not an aviation fan, but regardless, it brings early Alaska alive in numerous ways, outside of the obvious.

[Ryan Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must for anybody with an interest in flying. Bush pilots in Alaska during the 1930-40s faced tremendous challenges prior to radio navigation, GPS, etc.