America's Few

Main Themes and Topics

America's Few by Bill Yenne offers a compelling exploration of US Marine Corps aviation during World War II, with a particular focus on its operations in the South Pacific. The book closely examines the parallel stories of Gregory "Pappy" Boyington and Joseph "Smokey Joe" Foss, two of the highest-scoring fighter aces in Marine Corps history. Yenne delves into the strategic and historical progression of Marine aviation from its inception in 1915 to its crucial role in the South Pacific during the war, highlighting its evolution as a critical component of US military success.

A key theme in the book is the emergence of Marine aviation as a dominant force within the Cactus Air Force in Guadalcanal, with Major General Roy Geiger at the helm. Yenne pays tribute to the bravery and skill of Marine aviators who transitioned from relative obscurity to significant players in the aerial battles against Japanese forces. He also brings to light other notable aces such as Ken Walsh, Don Aldrich, John L. Smith, Wilbur Thomas, and Marion Carl, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Marine aviation history.

Writing Style and Tone

Bill Yenne's writing in America's Few is authoritative and well-researched, befitting his reputation as an acclaimed aviation historian. The prose is engaging and accessible, making complex military history approachable for both enthusiasts and general readers alike. Yenne balances historical depth with narrative elements, weaving personal stories of the pilots with broader historical contexts and military developments of the era.

The tone of the book is one of admiration and respect for the aviators and their contributions during World War II. Yenne is careful to depict the bravery and strategic importance of the Marine Corps' actions without veering into glorification, maintaining a respectful and informative narrative throughout.

Brief Summary

America's Few is a fascinating chronicle of the US Marine Corps aviation's role and development during World War II, particularly focusing on the South Pacific campaigns. Bill Yenne traces the history and evolution of Marine aviation from a small, self-contained force in 1915 to its pivotal involvement in the war after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The book centers around the exploits of Marine Corps legends Pappy Boyington and Smokey Joe Foss, whose remarkable aerial combat achievements symbolize the prowess and determination of Marine aviators. Through detailed accounts of key dogfights and strategic operations, Yenne ensures that the contributions of Marine pilots remain a celebrated chapter in military history.