Tail-End Charlies: The Last Battles of the Bomber War, 1944-45

Upon first looking into this work it all seemed familiar as though the authors had merely compiled excerpts from memoirs I had already read and which were well known in the literature. But as I read on I decided that this book was destined to be the standard reference on the subject of USAAF and RAF strategic operations against Germany in the decisive, final years of World War II. Much material not previously known to me was integrated into the authors' study from their original research into unpublished sources. They prove their theses that aerial bombardment was not capable of bringing Germany to its knees without an invasion on the ground, as dogmatic air power advocates such as Arthur Harris iinsisted was possible. But strategic bombardment nonetheless was critical in defeating the German war machine when supplimented by troops on the ground. The authors strongly disagree with those who accuse the air forces of war crimes for their bombardment of population centers particularly Dresden. The authors attribute the Dresden allegations to disinformation originating with Nazi Josep Goebbels and taken up since by those who were sympathetic to the Nazi cause. Their evidence is clear and convincing and their reasoning is cogent.

This is the best book I have read on the World War II bombing campaign over Europe. I almost feel as if I had been a crew member aboard a B-17 or Lancaster. As I progressed through the pages, I could hear the shrapnel hitting the planes and the screams of the wounded. I could feel the shock of a parachute opening, and I could see the burning cities down below. "Tail-End Charlies" feels as real as having cold water thrown in your face.I would like to thank the British and American crew members who flew those dangerous missions over Europe. You helped to defeat an evil power and to end World War II. May your sacrifices be remembered and appreciated.

This is a good WW II history of those who came over towards the end of the war in Europe and their experiences. Since I love all the history of the war in Europe, especially the Bombing effort (my Dad flew B-24's out of Attlebridge), this is my kind of book.

Mr. Nichol has a wonderful way with words, and manages to document the "who, what, where, & how many" of this tremendous 1000-mile-long battlefield while also capturing an incredible variety of the feelings and emotions that went along with being a small part of this hugely important battle. Outstanding and powerful read with lots of interesting revelations!

This probably the best book about the bomber air war in Europe that I have ever read. Every story told by those who participated in this endevor is captivating and thought provoking. While one would not believe that humor could come out of a horrible and fearful endevor

It's a good book about B-24's especially the Tail-end Charlie, the last planes in formation, hence the title.

Why they all didn't quite is real story. Now you know why the are called the Great Generation! But survival rates was dismal but job needed to be done.

I often read about others that say they "can't put the book down because it is soooooooooooooo captivating". Well, "Tail-end Charlies" did that to me. What a super read. A dose of history and a dose of personal perspectives all in one. It is also an objective perspective relating to "Butch" Harris. Don't pass this one up.

What a great book.A fitting tributes to our flying heroes of the 2nd World War. To both those who made it....and even more so to the many tens of thousands who didn't.So much more than the sum of it's parts too. Beautifully written....and with great empathy. Funny at times-despite the oft grim but heroic content.It is also politically fascinating, detailing at it does the strenuously opposed debate on mass bombing that came toward the latter end of the campaign.If you're thinking of buying...or just umming and ahhing over a Christmas gift...Don't hesitate. You're sure to be thanked. I heartily recommend it.

A really fantastic read - well-written and researched thoroughly. Really brings the stories of these heroes to life. Anyone with an interest in WW2 needs to read this book.

A great book that not only shares the incredible experiences of the brave men of Bomber Command but which examines their actions from a military, sociological, historical and ethical perspective. I am reminded of the debt we all owe them. Never again. Pray for peace always.

A well written history of Bomber Command for the last two years of the War. It makes you very aware of the huge sacrifices made by the 55,000 airmen who died without whom the war could easily have been lost. It also highlights the issue of the carpet bombing of German cities and puts it into context with the horrors committed by the Nazis. It also highlights the losses suffered by the American bombers who also underwent huge losses when doing the same thing during daylight hours. We should never forget those who gave their lives and it says much about politics whereby it has taken years for the government in this country to recognise their sacrifices along with those who gave their lives on the Arctic convoys.

What a story! I almost wept as I read the saddest stories of such men. I knew a Wireless Op who won the DFC and he was so carefree.