Jungle Ace
by John R. Bruning
"The Story of One of the Usaaf's Great Fighter Leaders, Col. Gerald R. Johnson"
Popularity
4.19 / 5
* A book's popularity is determined by how it compares to all other books on this website.
Where to buy?
Buy from Amazon* If you buy this book through the link above, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Jungle Ace by John R. Bruning
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Pilots
Military Unit:
US Air Force
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Pacific
Page Count:
410
Published Date:
2011
ISBN13:
9781612340869
Description
Brief Summary
Jungle Ace by John R. Bruning is a compelling biography of Jerry Johnson, a decorated World War II fighter pilot who flew P-38s in the Pacific theater. The book chronicles Johnson's extraordinary military career, highlighting his achievements, including shooting down 24 aircraft across 265 combat missions. At just twenty-four years old, Johnson commanded the highest-scoring fighter group in the Pacific. The narrative also touches on his personal struggles and ultimate fate, as Johnson tragically disappeared during a courier mission shortly after the war concluded.
Main Themes and Topics
The book delves into themes of bravery, leadership, and the relentless nature of war. It explores the intensity and dangers of aerial combat during World War II, particularly in the Pacific theater. Bruning presents a detailed account of the challenges faced by fighter pilots, emphasizing their courage and the high stakes involved in every mission. The tragic disappearance of Johnson post-war brings a poignant element to the story, highlighting the unpredictable and oftentimes unforgiving nature of war.
Writing Style and Tone
John R. Bruning's writing style in Jungle Ace is both engaging and meticulous, painting vivid pictures of aerial dogfights and life on the front lines. His narrative is rich with historical detail, making the reader feel as though they are alongside Jerry Johnson in the cockpit. The tone ranges from gripping action sequences to reflective passages that provide insight into Johnson's life and personality, balancing technical descriptions with human interest elements.
Awards and Recognition
Jungle Ace has been praised for its well-researched and comprehensive portrayal of a WWII fighter ace. The book is recognized for its ability to bring to life the experiences of a war hero whose story might otherwise remain in obscurity. John R. Bruning is noted for his ability to weave a personal narrative within the broader context of historical events, gaining him recognition as a respected author in the genre of military biographies.
