The Second Team

The Second Team Book Description

James C. Downing Jr. tells of his dramatic missions as a young emergency combat pilot in the Vietnam war 1966-1967. He was among the "The Second Team" pilots that arrived as replacement pilots who pioneered the art of helicopter warfare in the US Army. The stories he shares feature tragic loss, mishaps, humor, heroic acts of valor, and the providence he personally experienced as a man of great faith. More than 53 years later, Downing shares his inner thoughts, rich descriptions, and a wide range of emotions while he wrestled with his greatest fears and regrets. This detailed historical, never seen before account, is based on Downing's daily personal journal entries, artifacts and photographs that he recorded while serving as a Warrant Officer in the US Army in Viet Nam in the 1st Cavalry Division from 16 June 1964 to 14 June 1967. This coming-of-age story of Faith, Freedom and Flying is sure to evoke reflection of the past, purpose in the present, and hope for the future.