What do you think?
Rate this book
From F-4 Phantom to A-10 Warthog: Memoirs of a Cold War Fighter Pilot
Absorbing analysis of fighter pilots, their culture and ethos presented by a long-standing member of the fraternity.
Fighter pilots! Images of Baron Manfred von Richthofen and Eddie Rickenbacker in the Great War, Johnnie Johnson, Robert Stanford Tuck and Richard Bong in the Second World War, or Robin Olds in Vietnam, all spring to mind. Volumes have been written about them, past and present. Understandably, most of these revolve around the skill, cunning and bravery that characterizes this distinctive band of brothers, but there are other dimensions to those who take to the skies to do battle that have not been given the emphasis they deserve – until now.
You do not have to be an aviation aficionado to enjoy Colonel Steve Ladd’s fascinating personal tale, woven around his 28-year career as a fighter pilot. This extremely engaging account follows a young man from basic pilot training to senior command through the narratives that define a unique ethos. From the United States to Southeast Asia; Europe to the Middle East; linking the amusing and tongue-in-cheek to the deadly serious and poignant, this is the lifelong journey of a fighter pilot.
The anecdotes provided are absorbing, providing an insight into life as an Air Force pilot, but, in this book, as Colonel Ladd stresses, the focus is not on fireworks or stirring tales of derring-do. Instead, this is an articulate and absorbing account of what life is really like among a rare breed of arrogant, cocky, boisterous and fun-loving young men who readily transform into steely professionals at the controls of a fighter aircraft.
From F-4 Phantom to A-10 Warthog is a terrific the legacy of a fighter pilot.
Fighter pilots! Images of Baron Manfred von Richthofen and Eddie Rickenbacker in the Great War, Johnnie Johnson, Robert Stanford Tuck and Richard Bong in the Second World War, or Robin Olds in Vietnam, all spring to mind. Volumes have been written about them, past and present. Understandably, most of these revolve around the skill, cunning and bravery that characterizes this distinctive band of brothers, but there are other dimensions to those who take to the skies to do battle that have not been given the emphasis they deserve – until now.
You do not have to be an aviation aficionado to enjoy Colonel Steve Ladd’s fascinating personal tale, woven around his 28-year career as a fighter pilot. This extremely engaging account follows a young man from basic pilot training to senior command through the narratives that define a unique ethos. From the United States to Southeast Asia; Europe to the Middle East; linking the amusing and tongue-in-cheek to the deadly serious and poignant, this is the lifelong journey of a fighter pilot.
The anecdotes provided are absorbing, providing an insight into life as an Air Force pilot, but, in this book, as Colonel Ladd stresses, the focus is not on fireworks or stirring tales of derring-do. Instead, this is an articulate and absorbing account of what life is really like among a rare breed of arrogant, cocky, boisterous and fun-loving young men who readily transform into steely professionals at the controls of a fighter aircraft.
From F-4 Phantom to A-10 Warthog is a terrific the legacy of a fighter pilot.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published October 14, 2020
244 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 12, 2021
"He remembers the days when he sky-danced through the heavens, when he could press a button and summon the lightning and invoke the thunder, the days when he was a prince of the earth and a lord of the heavens. He remembers his glory days and he is young again."
Ladd offers us a different kind of reflection (and rarely PC) on a life in the USA’s military.
.
"Although I flew 204 missions, demolished a number of Uncle Ho’s moving vans, bridges and other infrastructure, soaked up a number of bullet holes and dodged the occasional surface-to-air missile (SAM), most of my individual exploits were relatively underwhelming. Secondly, I’m much more interested in providing an insight into behaviors and experiences which make this noble profession unique, rather than providing an autobiographical portrayal of my own year in the combat zone."
This is a rare memoir from someone who put in decades as USAF combat pilot and commander. He isn’t interested in telling combat stories but in giving readers a sense of the attitudes and mindsets of these pilots and those who surround them. It is ribald, jocular, candid, and refreshing. Read this if you want to understand more of what makes these people want to test the limits, both in the air and when they land.
"These guys weren’t one-trick ponies: their talent ranged from brilliance in the air, as pilots, tacticians and aerial choreographers, to that magic and indefinable ‘something’ that characterizes a superlative leader of people. These were men who could outfly and outthink you in the air, then stand you up against a wall in a flight debriefing and tear little strips off your ego in the presence of your peers (who enjoyed the performance immensely, until it was their turn). An hour later, in the bar, he’d buy you a beer, slap you on the back and, in a matter of moments, reattach all those little strips – again in the presence of your peers – because he knew that without them, you were a lesser young fighter pilot and his tribe would be weakened if that situation wasn’t resolved."
"Fighter pilots have, over the years, developed a number of pastimes designed to blow off steam, foster camaraderie and establish a level of exclusivity that others would not even wish to achieve. Most of these amusements fall into certain categories: mindless, irresponsible, uncouth and immature. I wouldn’t expect anyone outside our band of brothers to fully understand, but these diversions are the bonds that hold us together (and set us apart)."
"I received orders to Moody AFB, near the bustling metropolis of Valdosta, Georgia. Not being completely au fait with the various pilot training bases available, I was somewhat disappointed with this location, fearing it would not be conducive to the debauchery and uninterrupted hell-raising I had programmed as a significant part of my pilot training experience."
"The Dog Whistle was a jewel of a basic jet trainer: side-by-side seating, two turbine engines (but no afterburners), fully aerobatic and spinnable, it had all the right credentials to turn a newly Air Force-indoctrinated Bug Smasher pilot into a fledgling jet jockey,"
"Some years later, a number of my colleagues and I were clinging precariously to a bar in our Officers’ Club in Thailand. One"
"Throughout the spectacles of chicken-chasing and veal-assisted tug of war, those not actively participating were taking advantage of a worldclass barbecue washed down with copious quantities of potent but very deceptive sangria that slid down smoothly, just like the fruit juices that supplemented its rioja foundation. The assembled multitude was now, in mid-afternoon, reaching delightful levels of jolly inebriation and it was within this congenial setting that the day’s main entertainment event was launched."
"We all cheerfully chipped in for the broken chairs, tables and glasses, satisfying the contract. In these, the good old days, this was part of the fighter pilot creed and no one ever quibbled about coughing up when they had caused damage through exuberance, mischief or any other factor which contributed to the character and spirit of those who flew fighters for a living."
"We eight are on alert for three days and nights. We will be replaced by eight more crew members and so it goes, 24/7, 365 days a year. Every month, one of three 401st Tactical Fighter Squadrons (TFS) rotates from our home base at Torrejón Air Base, Spain to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey to keep the chain linked. We are but one of our country’s many deterrent forces in a Cold War that has been unremitting since the end of the Second World War. We like to think we are unique: irreplaceable modern-day crusaders primed for a mission only we can achieve. We rarely discuss it among ourselves, but the facts are contradictory. If we are launched, Armageddon is undeniably upon us and the immense nuclear arsenals of the US and USSR will have been irretrievably committed. We, the proud fighter pilots of the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron will deliver the fifth, sixth or even seventh nuclear weapon against our assigned target, having been preceded by US Army Pershing missiles based close to the Iron Curtain, ICBMs launched by lurking Allied nuclear submarines and those unleashed from underground silos in our American homeland. Indeed, every few months senior officers will ‘certify’ each aircrew as having committed virtually every detail of our top secret combat mission profile for a specified target to memory."
"Don’t let Maverick, Goose and that Hollywood crowd hoodwink you; I have no doubt the Navy’s Top Gun course is challenging and extremely valuable to those who spent a short stint at Naval Air Station Miramar, California. The Navy course was four weeks long in the 1970s, five weeks in the 1980s, and all about air-to-air stick and rudder work with a similarly focused academics program in between; IMHO not nearly as grueling or fulfilling as the six-month Air Force version."
"Consequently, as was my custom in those early days, I applied virtually no logic, reason or forethought and decided unequivocally that my bright future would be fulfilled by maintaining the status quo and moving on with the Phantom. My wife, who has always been far superior in foresight, held her counsel and continued to give me rope, hoping I wouldn’t hang myself with it."
"I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America."
Ladd offers us a different kind of reflection (and rarely PC) on a life in the USA’s military.
.
"Although I flew 204 missions, demolished a number of Uncle Ho’s moving vans, bridges and other infrastructure, soaked up a number of bullet holes and dodged the occasional surface-to-air missile (SAM), most of my individual exploits were relatively underwhelming. Secondly, I’m much more interested in providing an insight into behaviors and experiences which make this noble profession unique, rather than providing an autobiographical portrayal of my own year in the combat zone."
This is a rare memoir from someone who put in decades as USAF combat pilot and commander. He isn’t interested in telling combat stories but in giving readers a sense of the attitudes and mindsets of these pilots and those who surround them. It is ribald, jocular, candid, and refreshing. Read this if you want to understand more of what makes these people want to test the limits, both in the air and when they land.
"These guys weren’t one-trick ponies: their talent ranged from brilliance in the air, as pilots, tacticians and aerial choreographers, to that magic and indefinable ‘something’ that characterizes a superlative leader of people. These were men who could outfly and outthink you in the air, then stand you up against a wall in a flight debriefing and tear little strips off your ego in the presence of your peers (who enjoyed the performance immensely, until it was their turn). An hour later, in the bar, he’d buy you a beer, slap you on the back and, in a matter of moments, reattach all those little strips – again in the presence of your peers – because he knew that without them, you were a lesser young fighter pilot and his tribe would be weakened if that situation wasn’t resolved."
"Fighter pilots have, over the years, developed a number of pastimes designed to blow off steam, foster camaraderie and establish a level of exclusivity that others would not even wish to achieve. Most of these amusements fall into certain categories: mindless, irresponsible, uncouth and immature. I wouldn’t expect anyone outside our band of brothers to fully understand, but these diversions are the bonds that hold us together (and set us apart)."
"I received orders to Moody AFB, near the bustling metropolis of Valdosta, Georgia. Not being completely au fait with the various pilot training bases available, I was somewhat disappointed with this location, fearing it would not be conducive to the debauchery and uninterrupted hell-raising I had programmed as a significant part of my pilot training experience."
"The Dog Whistle was a jewel of a basic jet trainer: side-by-side seating, two turbine engines (but no afterburners), fully aerobatic and spinnable, it had all the right credentials to turn a newly Air Force-indoctrinated Bug Smasher pilot into a fledgling jet jockey,"
"Some years later, a number of my colleagues and I were clinging precariously to a bar in our Officers’ Club in Thailand. One"
"Throughout the spectacles of chicken-chasing and veal-assisted tug of war, those not actively participating were taking advantage of a worldclass barbecue washed down with copious quantities of potent but very deceptive sangria that slid down smoothly, just like the fruit juices that supplemented its rioja foundation. The assembled multitude was now, in mid-afternoon, reaching delightful levels of jolly inebriation and it was within this congenial setting that the day’s main entertainment event was launched."
"We all cheerfully chipped in for the broken chairs, tables and glasses, satisfying the contract. In these, the good old days, this was part of the fighter pilot creed and no one ever quibbled about coughing up when they had caused damage through exuberance, mischief or any other factor which contributed to the character and spirit of those who flew fighters for a living."
"We eight are on alert for three days and nights. We will be replaced by eight more crew members and so it goes, 24/7, 365 days a year. Every month, one of three 401st Tactical Fighter Squadrons (TFS) rotates from our home base at Torrejón Air Base, Spain to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey to keep the chain linked. We are but one of our country’s many deterrent forces in a Cold War that has been unremitting since the end of the Second World War. We like to think we are unique: irreplaceable modern-day crusaders primed for a mission only we can achieve. We rarely discuss it among ourselves, but the facts are contradictory. If we are launched, Armageddon is undeniably upon us and the immense nuclear arsenals of the US and USSR will have been irretrievably committed. We, the proud fighter pilots of the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron will deliver the fifth, sixth or even seventh nuclear weapon against our assigned target, having been preceded by US Army Pershing missiles based close to the Iron Curtain, ICBMs launched by lurking Allied nuclear submarines and those unleashed from underground silos in our American homeland. Indeed, every few months senior officers will ‘certify’ each aircrew as having committed virtually every detail of our top secret combat mission profile for a specified target to memory."
"Don’t let Maverick, Goose and that Hollywood crowd hoodwink you; I have no doubt the Navy’s Top Gun course is challenging and extremely valuable to those who spent a short stint at Naval Air Station Miramar, California. The Navy course was four weeks long in the 1970s, five weeks in the 1980s, and all about air-to-air stick and rudder work with a similarly focused academics program in between; IMHO not nearly as grueling or fulfilling as the six-month Air Force version."
"Consequently, as was my custom in those early days, I applied virtually no logic, reason or forethought and decided unequivocally that my bright future would be fulfilled by maintaining the status quo and moving on with the Phantom. My wife, who has always been far superior in foresight, held her counsel and continued to give me rope, hoping I wouldn’t hang myself with it."
"I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America."
June 2, 2021
I read a lot of the reviews, here and elsewhere, before giving my ten cents here. Most are overwhelmingly positive, indeed 5 stars. A few amusingly carp on the high jinks/ partying aspect of the life, entirely missing the point ; I'll get back to that.
The author was in for 28 years, most of which was flying fighters/ mud movers, which is quite a trick, as all of us who flew recognize ( I am ex F-4s ). The normal progression is a flying tour or two, then a ground job , and so on. There is pressure to move up the hierarchy, to be promoted, involving square filling and certain metrics to advance. In some cases , or Air Forces , failure to be promoted means being invited to leave - getting the boot . The author managed pretty much to have his cake and eat it , being for the most part in the cockpit, but still achieving rank. Well played !
This is well written - entertaining, humorous ,in a self- deprecating style. The arc of his career is described from the beginning - ab initio through to hanging up his spurs. Accurate portrayals of the context - the Cold War and the challenge facing the USAF and other NATO Air Forces, his part in the picture ( but not limited to aircrew only, as he credits the disparate folks that make it possible). Ruminations on character, leadership, and sufficient anecdotes of operational flying to give the flavor of fighter flying.
This is as good a description of the fighter pilot ethos as anything I've read or heard. Aggression, but controlled and directed aggression ; motivation and focus, hard work and perseverance . And of course, some luck. And the characteristics required for the job translate into the social life of the squadron, as much in full- on 'socializing ' as when 'turning and burning'.
Folks with this background will enjoy the book, recognizing themselves and their cohort as they turn the pages ; yet it is readily accessible to people with no knowledge of the profession.
Highly recommend.
The author was in for 28 years, most of which was flying fighters/ mud movers, which is quite a trick, as all of us who flew recognize ( I am ex F-4s ). The normal progression is a flying tour or two, then a ground job , and so on. There is pressure to move up the hierarchy, to be promoted, involving square filling and certain metrics to advance. In some cases , or Air Forces , failure to be promoted means being invited to leave - getting the boot . The author managed pretty much to have his cake and eat it , being for the most part in the cockpit, but still achieving rank. Well played !
This is well written - entertaining, humorous ,in a self- deprecating style. The arc of his career is described from the beginning - ab initio through to hanging up his spurs. Accurate portrayals of the context - the Cold War and the challenge facing the USAF and other NATO Air Forces, his part in the picture ( but not limited to aircrew only, as he credits the disparate folks that make it possible). Ruminations on character, leadership, and sufficient anecdotes of operational flying to give the flavor of fighter flying.
This is as good a description of the fighter pilot ethos as anything I've read or heard. Aggression, but controlled and directed aggression ; motivation and focus, hard work and perseverance . And of course, some luck. And the characteristics required for the job translate into the social life of the squadron, as much in full- on 'socializing ' as when 'turning and burning'.
Folks with this background will enjoy the book, recognizing themselves and their cohort as they turn the pages ; yet it is readily accessible to people with no knowledge of the profession.
Highly recommend.
December 5, 2020
Only a Fighter Pilot can truly write about “being” a Fighter Pilot. Steve Ladd, Col. USAF (Ret.) is one of the best in the game. This is not a war-story, “there I was.” tale because Steve chose to highlight the psyche and indomitable spirit of the fighter pilot by spotlighting their unique outlook and culture. Relating his personal USAF experiences he successfully accomplishes that goal. You can read more about the man and his book at https:// phantomtowarthog.com.
Anticipating a wide audience to include civilian and non-aviation readers, there are segments of the book, as pointed out by Steve, that may be a bit “wordy” for many aviators. Those segments DO NOT detract from the story’s flow; but add context for creating the Fighter Pilot outlook and culture he desired. The chapters are well-organized, and if desired, allows one to either pick and choose or stay the course with Steve as he navigates you through his amazing and envied, mostly flying, 28-year Air Force career. His stories are humorous, outrageous, and will enlighten the reader. Bottom-line: this is an entertaining book that is an easy and enjoyable read. He has a way with words that will put a smile on your face from cover-to-cover.
Anticipating a wide audience to include civilian and non-aviation readers, there are segments of the book, as pointed out by Steve, that may be a bit “wordy” for many aviators. Those segments DO NOT detract from the story’s flow; but add context for creating the Fighter Pilot outlook and culture he desired. The chapters are well-organized, and if desired, allows one to either pick and choose or stay the course with Steve as he navigates you through his amazing and envied, mostly flying, 28-year Air Force career. His stories are humorous, outrageous, and will enlighten the reader. Bottom-line: this is an entertaining book that is an easy and enjoyable read. He has a way with words that will put a smile on your face from cover-to-cover.
January 9, 2022
Great autobiography of Steve Ladd, who started flying Phantoms in the 70s, transitioned to the Warthog, and flew nearly all of his 30 year career in the Air Force. Recommend highly for anyone with any interest in fighter pilots or their interesting lives.
October 5, 2020
Absolutely brilliant!!! As a retired USAF F4 Phantom and A-10 avionics technician the author (let's call him Steve) brought the humour and the trials and tribulations of USAF existence to life.
Steve leads us from being a student pilot (and USAF officer) through assignments in combat zones, Cold War bases and 'peace dividend' experiences, all the while weaving his story with humorous antadotes, seat of the pants flying and respect (kind of) for authority.
We get to meet Elaine, his wife/partner/spouse (you choose) and the positive influences (restraining voice) she had upon the author and his career.
Steve tells his story through his eyes with reflection of his progression through the ranks and jobs/functions he held during his career.
He had me in fits of giggles and/or fondly remembering my own experiences of the USAF life as we both knew it, and sadness it will never be that way again.
He was a combat flier, and was never happy behind a BGD (you have to read it!). This lends to Steve telling us of exploits and 'dream sheets' to avoid the BGD as much as possible. We in maintenance had similar constraints on career progression, so it was nice to see we all suffered under 'a common enemy'!
I could ramble on, but IMHO (read the book) he has done justice to his task as it says in the title, and the result is a most enjoyable read for both military and civilian audiences.
I would recommend it to one and all.
Steve leads us from being a student pilot (and USAF officer) through assignments in combat zones, Cold War bases and 'peace dividend' experiences, all the while weaving his story with humorous antadotes, seat of the pants flying and respect (kind of) for authority.
We get to meet Elaine, his wife/partner/spouse (you choose) and the positive influences (restraining voice) she had upon the author and his career.
Steve tells his story through his eyes with reflection of his progression through the ranks and jobs/functions he held during his career.
He had me in fits of giggles and/or fondly remembering my own experiences of the USAF life as we both knew it, and sadness it will never be that way again.
He was a combat flier, and was never happy behind a BGD (you have to read it!). This lends to Steve telling us of exploits and 'dream sheets' to avoid the BGD as much as possible. We in maintenance had similar constraints on career progression, so it was nice to see we all suffered under 'a common enemy'!
I could ramble on, but IMHO (read the book) he has done justice to his task as it says in the title, and the result is a most enjoyable read for both military and civilian audiences.
I would recommend it to one and all.
February 17, 2023
I see in previous reviews that people have shared how and when they knew Col. Ladd and how this book stirred up such special memories. So I thought it only fitting that I too share how I knew this author. He was my first love some 60 years ago in HS at the same RAF Bentwaters he writes about - when my fighter pilot dad was Director of Operations for the 81st TFW – the very position Steve was given some 28 years later. He and Elaine were assigned the very same quarters where I had lived when Steve and I were dating, where he would pick me up to go out (on foot, mind you, as 18 was the driving age in England). Little did we know then that he would be returning.
Being an AF Brat I can certainly attest to how accurately Steve wrote of AF life for the families with its trials and, more importantly, close knit bonds. His recall of so many technical and personal details is most impressive as he weaves camaraderie, humor, pride, humility, leadership, compassion, appreciation, and of course his passion for flying together to create such a special book. Be prepared for some ‘laugh out loud’ moments and even a few tears. But mostly you will know how much this fighter pilot loved serving his country in his Phantom and Warthog. Good job Col. Ladd!
Being an AF Brat I can certainly attest to how accurately Steve wrote of AF life for the families with its trials and, more importantly, close knit bonds. His recall of so many technical and personal details is most impressive as he weaves camaraderie, humor, pride, humility, leadership, compassion, appreciation, and of course his passion for flying together to create such a special book. Be prepared for some ‘laugh out loud’ moments and even a few tears. But mostly you will know how much this fighter pilot loved serving his country in his Phantom and Warthog. Good job Col. Ladd!
August 15, 2024
I may elaborate later but this is good. Mostly by capturing and communicating life and process in this field.
January 28, 2022
Excellent Anthology
This book was an outstanding account of military aviation. It brought back memories of life as a member of USAFE for four years.
Although I was not a flyer, I expert many happy moments within flying circles.
This book was an outstanding account of military aviation. It brought back memories of life as a member of USAFE for four years.
Although I was not a flyer, I expert many happy moments within flying circles.
May 28, 2024
This is a great book. I was a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force and the Air National Guard. I related to a lot of his stories about the life of a fighter pilot and it was great to remember. It was amazing to me when he mentioned a friend that I flew the A-7 with. Nickel on the grass for our friend. My career flying fighters wasn’t as long as his but, I retired from my last airline after flying for about 45 years. Cheers!
December 13, 2020
Fantastic read! My husband was also an F-4E pilot during the same era as Steve Ladd – in fact, they were stationed together for a while during the years he flew the F-4E. So, when he bought this book, I had to see what it had to say. I grabbed it off the counter where he had laid it and read it before he did! I was extremely interested in following the accounts of Steve’s Air Force career, as it closely paralleled the career of my husband (and our Air Force life together). It brought back many memories of our Air Force years: Flight School, Survival Schools, combat tours in Southeast Asia, RTU Instructor Pilot Upgrade training, Squadron Officer School, and overseas assignments. It also evoked memories of many PCS moves and TDY assignments, Friday nights at the O Club, and various aspects of fighter squadron life. Steve’s writing style is perfect… not too technical, but with enough detail to clearly describe the events and incidents. I especially enjoyed his tales of the antics and escapades that were representative of those of the fighter pilot community during those years. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in what the fighter pilot life was really like during the 1960’s and into the 1990’s.
June 5, 2021
A lucky man
As a retired USAFR officer(and prior enlisted) this book speaks to me. While not a fighter pilot(medic/medical ops) this books very much reminds me of why I got in and stayed in. The mission and the people. Col Ladd give an irreverent and touching recitation of his journey in service to his country, service and people. He loved every minute and it shows in his writing. Congrats and bravo Zulu.
As a retired USAFR officer(and prior enlisted) this book speaks to me. While not a fighter pilot(medic/medical ops) this books very much reminds me of why I got in and stayed in. The mission and the people. Col Ladd give an irreverent and touching recitation of his journey in service to his country, service and people. He loved every minute and it shows in his writing. Congrats and bravo Zulu.
August 25, 2024
it could be anyone’s memoir
When i read a memoir of a combat pilot of combat planes i expect stories on combat. I’ve read 30% of this book to notice there is no single description of any combat mission. Nothing. Its about life of a pilot except of combat. Description of his wedding took couple of pages. I realized that when suddenly, after stories in Vietnam pilot founds himself in Spain. Without anything about the missions that he had to went thru
When i read a memoir of a combat pilot of combat planes i expect stories on combat. I’ve read 30% of this book to notice there is no single description of any combat mission. Nothing. Its about life of a pilot except of combat. Description of his wedding took couple of pages. I realized that when suddenly, after stories in Vietnam pilot founds himself in Spain. Without anything about the missions that he had to went thru
October 1, 2021
The best I've read.
The book puts the reader in not only the planes but leads one to understand a little of what AirForce life is/was like.
I'm glad I stumbled onto this story.
Lol,
The book puts the reader in not only the planes but leads one to understand a little of what AirForce life is/was like.
I'm glad I stumbled onto this story.
Lol,
April 14, 2023
The book I am presenting to you today, the memoirs of war and military life of Colonel Steve Ladd of the United States Air Force, is truly fantastic. The book, published by Pen & Sword, introduces us to a period of history, that of the Cold War, which saw enormous forces confronting each other completely aimed at a war of annihilation. The period ended only with the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dismantling of the USSR.
Colonel Ladd is very frank in his memoirs, which makes them extremely enjoyable to read. In fact, by telling of his path, he manages to make the psyche of a "Fighter Pilot" well understood, very different from that of other pilots in service on the numerous types of aircraft under the US arsenal, with the search for competitiveness and a perfection that was truly for a few. Ladd does not weigh his status, his story is extremely human, "down to earth", pleasant in the description of situations and events. Entering aviation in the late 1960s, he served in the Vietnam War aboard the gem of the time, the F4 Phantom, a multi-role fighter-bomber that stood out for its fantastic combat performance and longevity. From the very beginning, Ladd identified himself with the aircraft he piloted, starting from the training ones, and well describing the good fortune of being able to fly a fighter like the F4, a dream of many pilots at the time.
However, a turning point, also mentioned in the title of his book, is the transition to the A-10. We know the A-10 from the tales of the First Gulf War, when it wreaked havoc on Saddam's armored forces. In the mid-70s, however, this aircraft was created to "equalize" forces in an ideal battle between tanks in Central Europe, following a possible Soviet invasion. The A-10 is extremely ugly to behold, clearly not very aerodynamic, designed (it is said, but this is a myth) around its 30 mm gun which occupies the entire fuselage. It is slow, armored, heavy, created to accompany allied tanks like a guardian angel and destroy enemy forces. Ladd betrays the sensations of anyone who has seen this strange aircraft for the first time very well, his tale of the transition from the elegant and powerful F4 to the improbable A-10 is one of the juiciest parts of the book.
At the same time, his story of the various assignments, as he rises in rank and "moves away" from the cockpit of the planes to take on administrative roles (the Big Gray Desks) makes him even more likeable. If Ladd stands out it is because he is always a fighter pilot, and what he would like to do is pilot and not hold administrative roles. Its highlight is that of the Weapons School (the equivalent of the US Navy's Top Gun school) or the comparison with the best of the best, the "master" for a fighter pilot. In between many tasks such as that of instructor in Iran (before the Khomeinist Revolution, since the Shah had bought several examples of Phantom).
There is no doubt that Ladd's book is extremely varied and interesting due to its narrative capacity, his sympathy, his "allergy" to politically correctness, which makes him human and close much more than could possibly be actually a modern day pilot. He does not disdain the criticism towards those who often accompanied him but ultimately defines himself as a "lucky" pilot for what he managed to obtain from his career which took place both in the USA and in NATO, in Germany, Spain, Turkey and the UK. The war stories are few, as he joins the USAF towards the end of the Vietnam War and experiences a period of relative tranquility (albeit under Soviet threat). But the fact that he brings us to know how the USAF works, how it feels to be a fighter pilot, which above all transmits to us through his book the enthusiasm of an excellent soldier for his career, his life and his country, assisted in everything by a fantastic wife like his Elaine to whom he pays just tribute throughout the book, is a testament to the author's worth.
Colonel Ladd is very frank in his memoirs, which makes them extremely enjoyable to read. In fact, by telling of his path, he manages to make the psyche of a "Fighter Pilot" well understood, very different from that of other pilots in service on the numerous types of aircraft under the US arsenal, with the search for competitiveness and a perfection that was truly for a few. Ladd does not weigh his status, his story is extremely human, "down to earth", pleasant in the description of situations and events. Entering aviation in the late 1960s, he served in the Vietnam War aboard the gem of the time, the F4 Phantom, a multi-role fighter-bomber that stood out for its fantastic combat performance and longevity. From the very beginning, Ladd identified himself with the aircraft he piloted, starting from the training ones, and well describing the good fortune of being able to fly a fighter like the F4, a dream of many pilots at the time.
However, a turning point, also mentioned in the title of his book, is the transition to the A-10. We know the A-10 from the tales of the First Gulf War, when it wreaked havoc on Saddam's armored forces. In the mid-70s, however, this aircraft was created to "equalize" forces in an ideal battle between tanks in Central Europe, following a possible Soviet invasion. The A-10 is extremely ugly to behold, clearly not very aerodynamic, designed (it is said, but this is a myth) around its 30 mm gun which occupies the entire fuselage. It is slow, armored, heavy, created to accompany allied tanks like a guardian angel and destroy enemy forces. Ladd betrays the sensations of anyone who has seen this strange aircraft for the first time very well, his tale of the transition from the elegant and powerful F4 to the improbable A-10 is one of the juiciest parts of the book.
At the same time, his story of the various assignments, as he rises in rank and "moves away" from the cockpit of the planes to take on administrative roles (the Big Gray Desks) makes him even more likeable. If Ladd stands out it is because he is always a fighter pilot, and what he would like to do is pilot and not hold administrative roles. Its highlight is that of the Weapons School (the equivalent of the US Navy's Top Gun school) or the comparison with the best of the best, the "master" for a fighter pilot. In between many tasks such as that of instructor in Iran (before the Khomeinist Revolution, since the Shah had bought several examples of Phantom).
There is no doubt that Ladd's book is extremely varied and interesting due to its narrative capacity, his sympathy, his "allergy" to politically correctness, which makes him human and close much more than could possibly be actually a modern day pilot. He does not disdain the criticism towards those who often accompanied him but ultimately defines himself as a "lucky" pilot for what he managed to obtain from his career which took place both in the USA and in NATO, in Germany, Spain, Turkey and the UK. The war stories are few, as he joins the USAF towards the end of the Vietnam War and experiences a period of relative tranquility (albeit under Soviet threat). But the fact that he brings us to know how the USAF works, how it feels to be a fighter pilot, which above all transmits to us through his book the enthusiasm of an excellent soldier for his career, his life and his country, assisted in everything by a fantastic wife like his Elaine to whom he pays just tribute throughout the book, is a testament to the author's worth.
February 18, 2022
One of the best military memoirs I’ve read. Author is a master at articulating his feelings, self depreciation , wit and perception. And humor? - At times I thought I was reading episodes of “Mash”.
There are some who have never served or are or were rank climbers who will not appreciate his style
Their loss.
.
There are some who have never served or are or were rank climbers who will not appreciate his style
Their loss.
.
October 2, 2025
A very personable, interesting story of what it was like to be a fighter pilot from the 60s to the 90s. It felt like listening to a friend talking about all the challenges and hijinks that resulted from doing the one job he really loved - flying jets. Steven Ladd truly was a very lucky man, and I enjoyed reading about his life's work immensely.
October 23, 2021
The story of an American fighter pilot
This is a well written story of a lucky man. He got to do a job he loved for his entire military career! I was greatly interested in Col. Ladd's story because I spent a lot of time working A-10 aircraft and engines
This is a well written story of a lucky man. He got to do a job he loved for his entire military career! I was greatly interested in Col. Ladd's story because I spent a lot of time working A-10 aircraft and engines
September 5, 2024
Best in Breed
I have read dozens of these types of memoirs, and this is easily among the top few. Well written, funny and interesting. I strongly recommend you give it a try, you will not be disappointed.
I have read dozens of these types of memoirs, and this is easily among the top few. Well written, funny and interesting. I strongly recommend you give it a try, you will not be disappointed.
October 8, 2024
Very Educational
I learned about the Air Force and my favorite aircraft the A-10. The story is well written and easy to follow.. Ladd did have a wonderful/and exciting career . Thank you for sharing.
I learned about the Air Force and my favorite aircraft the A-10. The story is well written and easy to follow.. Ladd did have a wonderful/and exciting career . Thank you for sharing.
February 15, 2025
Very enjoyable read. I was in the Air Force in Germany during the same period. I wasn't around fighters, I was in microwave communications. I enjoyed learning about what fighter pilots go through in training. Very well written and humorous in parts
Read
May 16, 2025Outstanding!
As a pilot of ,
American Pie 2. A
classic '58 polished silver Cessna 172 I enjoyed flying as much as was possible as did this writer! And met extraordinary people as well. Sincere thanks for sharing your "ride" Sir. A hard ship to finally part with.
As a pilot of ,
American Pie 2. A
classic '58 polished silver Cessna 172 I enjoyed flying as much as was possible as did this writer! And met extraordinary people as well. Sincere thanks for sharing your "ride" Sir. A hard ship to finally part with.
October 18, 2022
Pretty good story of an air force career. Light on wars, heavy on non-war experiences.
November 24, 2022
Excellent book and very well written story mixed with great humour.
January 18, 2023
Basic story of the pilots life. Not enough about the flying aspects.
June 28, 2024
Shack lead
Thanks for writing this. An outstanding read. Brought back great memories of my twenty year experiences. Four more words required.
Thanks for writing this. An outstanding read. Brought back great memories of my twenty year experiences. Four more words required.
November 9, 2024
the best job ever
Well written work; with good humor and panache . May there be more folks like the author to grace the skies and bring honor our beloved country.
Well written work; with good humor and panache . May there be more folks like the author to grace the skies and bring honor our beloved country.
December 15, 2024
Great memoir!
August 8, 2025
Did not appreciate the disrespect towards the Shah or silly remarks about the state of IIAF. Very biased one would say. Shouldn’t you respect the rules of the host country? Would he have been okay had someone disrespected the rules and customs of his own country while visiting? Overall an okay book. Nothing special. Thanks for your attention to this matter.
May 11, 2022
You simply do not retire from the US Air Force, a "Full Bird' Colonel after service in the Cold War without having some real chops. Having been part of Both the Fighter and Attack Aircraft "Families" over 28 years of the later Cold War and Post Cold War period Steve Ladd has an interesting tale to tell. I enjoyed it immensely as he shows you that nice guys do get ahead in the Services- especially if they really work on their situational awareness. As the title tells you- Steve started over Vietnam Laos and Cambodia- driving the classic Late Vietnam War/Mid Cold War Icon- the F-4 Phantom. But after 204 Missions- Ladd came back to the Cold War rotation of service in Europe and across the US. Then when most fast mover fighter guys were moving to the F-15 program, Ladd zags- and got involved with the "New" Tank Killer in town- the A-10 Warthog - another Icon- where he got to be in on the ground floor. An aerial gunnery and ordnance delivery expert already- the allure of that big gun- that was always intended to rip Soviet Armour to shreds- was able to overcome the "Need for Speed". I frankly loved almost every minute of Ladd's simple and direct style with compelling content.
As the narrative develops- it really becomes more about international relations as practiced within NATO and in the USAF at various different time- and man management- both up and down the chain. With a better attitude about both European Culture (with both big and little "C") and their militaries than most Americans, Ladd was the perfect guy to shine at NATO- and it suited his desire to avoid Pentagon desk jobs. I think any American Officer who wants to finesse alliance assignments should read this book- and I bet it would not hurt Foreign officers assigned to work with Yanks to give it a look either. Ladd is an Eisenhower disciple- really aware of the work it takes to make an Alliance effective. His British wife is a vivid character in the book- the Special Relationship writ in human form. By then end- you understand that a career defending your country is even more about the men in command and in the air- than it is about that wonderful gear that is their tool box.
There are some adult themes, but no graphic injury passages, so this would be a good read for a Junior reader over 13/14 with an interest in the military or aviation. For the Gamer/Modeler/Military Enthusiast a bit of a mixed bag. Some great colour pics make this a good extra resource for the Modeler- and there are some good diorama ideas- but not that much mission detail to help the wargamer. The Gamer and the Military Enthusiast will get tonne of great background and "feel" information about the Cold War and NATO in that period. I frankly think a LOT of Business Managers would be well counseled to listen to Ladd's wisdoms about Man Management - both subordinates and superiors. I enjoyed this as a memoir , a historical document and as a crackin' good read.
As the narrative develops- it really becomes more about international relations as practiced within NATO and in the USAF at various different time- and man management- both up and down the chain. With a better attitude about both European Culture (with both big and little "C") and their militaries than most Americans, Ladd was the perfect guy to shine at NATO- and it suited his desire to avoid Pentagon desk jobs. I think any American Officer who wants to finesse alliance assignments should read this book- and I bet it would not hurt Foreign officers assigned to work with Yanks to give it a look either. Ladd is an Eisenhower disciple- really aware of the work it takes to make an Alliance effective. His British wife is a vivid character in the book- the Special Relationship writ in human form. By then end- you understand that a career defending your country is even more about the men in command and in the air- than it is about that wonderful gear that is their tool box.
There are some adult themes, but no graphic injury passages, so this would be a good read for a Junior reader over 13/14 with an interest in the military or aviation. For the Gamer/Modeler/Military Enthusiast a bit of a mixed bag. Some great colour pics make this a good extra resource for the Modeler- and there are some good diorama ideas- but not that much mission detail to help the wargamer. The Gamer and the Military Enthusiast will get tonne of great background and "feel" information about the Cold War and NATO in that period. I frankly think a LOT of Business Managers would be well counseled to listen to Ladd's wisdoms about Man Management - both subordinates and superiors. I enjoyed this as a memoir , a historical document and as a crackin' good read.
June 11, 2024
fighter pilot extraordinaire revelations
The author has written a compelling book about his experiences as a fighter pilot and revealed untold details behind the scenes of what it is to be so gifted intellectually and physically to fly the mighty F-4 Phantom. Certainly fighter pilots have an air of confidence and superiority about them, but, Col Ladd’s achievements speak for themselves. Love him, hate him, no matter, I highly recommend this easy reading book to anyone who ever dreamed of flying a fighter jet. His book has immortalized his comrades, his units, and those lost doing what they loved to do. Enjoy!
The author has written a compelling book about his experiences as a fighter pilot and revealed untold details behind the scenes of what it is to be so gifted intellectually and physically to fly the mighty F-4 Phantom. Certainly fighter pilots have an air of confidence and superiority about them, but, Col Ladd’s achievements speak for themselves. Love him, hate him, no matter, I highly recommend this easy reading book to anyone who ever dreamed of flying a fighter jet. His book has immortalized his comrades, his units, and those lost doing what they loved to do. Enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews