U.S. citizens fought and died in WW II long before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. Among them were the pilots of the Eagle Squadrons, three fighter squadrons of Britain's Royal Air Force manned by young U.S. flyers. This book tells how the Eagle squadrons were formed and summarizes the history of the units and evaluates their deeds, motivations, and contributions. Draws on interviews from more than 35 surviving Eagles, their letters and memoirs, and official records. Depicts their daily lives along with special heroes and amazing sacrifices. "An important contribution to the study of American involvement in WWII. Highly recommended."

The inspiring story of the U.S. citizens who fought and died in World War II long before their country entered the war. Drawn from interviews with dozens of surviving Eagles, from their letters and memoirs, and from official records of the squadrons -- and containing numerous photos from the pilots' personal collections -- the Eagles' story is a unique chapter in American military history.

Includes 14 illustrations of the units, planes and personnel of the Eagle Squadrons During the perilous years of 1940-1941, a small band of Americans joined the Royal Air Force to help England resist Nazi Germany. They did so while the United States remained a neutral power and overcame significant obstacles to accomplish their objective. Over time, the RAF formed three fighter units, known collectively as the Eagle Squadrons, around these volunteer pilots. These Americans flew alongside their British comrades in fighter and bomber escort missions until 1942, when they transferred into the United States Army Air Forces. The Eagle Squadron pilots made noteworthy contributions to the RAF, assisting them in their transition from fighting a defensive war to waging an offensive campaign against the German Luftwaffe and helping pave the way to an eventual Allied victory.

Among the most remarkable organizations in the history of air power are the three RAF Eagle Squadrons. Made up of American volunteers they helped stop Hitler's mighty Luftwaffe prior to American entry into the war and subsequently became the initial cadre of the legendary Fourth Fighter Group.

While the United States sought to remain neutral in the early years of World War II, some Americans did not. This book is the first to provide the operational records and combat reports of the three American "Eagle" Royal Air Force squadrons--units comprised of volunteer American pilots who served with the British prior to the U.S. entering the war. The records tell the story of the more than 200 pilots who, against federal law, flew with the British in their fight against Nazi Germany. While some Americans served individually in other RAF units, these three squadrons--the 71st, 121st and 133rd--were the only ones organized exclusively for Americans. They were the first of dozens of American fighter squadrons that would soar over Europe.