Solo Into the Rising Sun: The Dangerous Missions of a U.S. Navy Bomber Squadron in World War II

by Ed Kittrell

When we think about World War II bombers, we picture formations of scores of bombers, escorted and protected by fighters, flying into enemy territory and bombing the hell out of the enemy. In Europe and usually the Pacific, this was the standard approach, but some bomber squadrons flew a different kind of mission. This was the case for VPB-117 - the Blue Raiders - unique not only because its B-24 Liberators flew for the U.S. Navy and not the Army, but also because most of the Raiders' missions entailed bombers venturing out over the Pacific, alone, to seek and destroy on long-range missions of a thousand miles out and a thousand back, often at altitudes close enough for sea spray to cloud their windows. This is their story.

336 pages, Hardcover

Published June 1, 2020

Reviews

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book 6 stars, I would. It's a wonderful collection of stories about the young men who fought in WWII in the elite squadron VPB-117. They flew for the Navy in B-24 Liberators alone in the Pacific seeking out ships to bomb. Alone--meaning no fighter jets around to protect them during the attacks. Their missions were usually 1000 miles out and 1000 back daily and their altitudes were incredibly low--1000 feet, 500 feet and OMG feet! The author spent years searching for these men and their families to get their stories and pictures in print before they all passed. Each chapter reads like a script for an exciting movie! A quick background of the flier and you're in the plane with them and off into an adventure not really knowing if they'll all return...and, of course, some did not.

While the action episodes make this book a real page turner, it's really about the people and their individual stories. The war impacted each flier and the author gives you a glimpse into their lives after the war, as well.

The author's father is included, as well as, my own father because they were part of the Blue Raiders. Mr. Kittrell interviewed Dad several times and, after he passed in 2010, he contacted me for some additional details and photos. So, you might think I'm prejudiced, but there's so much more in this book that it would easily stand without either of these two men's stories.

It's history, it's heartwarming, it's touching and it's the truth. It's a book for men and women of any age. It's a must read book for today.

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read a lot of books about WWII. This was introduced to me by my Mother-in-law who contributed information about her uncle, Bill Loesel, whose story is part of this great work. I discovered it to be a MUST READ for all fans of history. I haven't read a book on a similar subject that put a human touch on it quite like this. It explored not only history, but the individual experiences wrapped up in the events and the intimate relationships affected by them. Hard one to put down and never to be forgotten lessons for all those who want to send our children to war.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely a phenomenal book! Fascinating, gripping, exciting, and terrific! An extremely well-written, deeply researched account of the U.S. Navy Blue Raiders in WW 2. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Truly a masterpiece and well worth your attention.