When the US president, Harry S Truman, declared the Truman Doctrine in March 1947, he could not have known that the resultant Cold War would persist for over 40 years until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in December 1991. In addition to nuclear and conventional military friction between the Eastern and Western blocs, the struggle for dominance involved a remarkable range of activities including the space race, psychological efforts, espionage, even rivalry at sporting functions and technological events.
This diversity is reflected in the 20 chapters of Cold War Boys which opens with a vivid description from the author of survival procedures used by English Electric Lightning pilots in the event of nuclear war. From there on, various contributors share their original experiences on a range of fixed-wing aircraft and rotorcraft across the world including tales from RAF Germany, the Falklands and the Far East. Each story demonstrates some of the intriguing circumstances faced by aircrew and ground crew whose tenacity and professionalism had to cope with miscellaneous situations of danger, excitement, risk, pathos and humour.
This book serves as a reminder of what air forces faced during the Cold War years as the ever-present threat of nuclear war persisted. A must for all aviation fans.
Praise for Richard Pike’s work:
For Lightning Boys:
“Richard Pike is to be congratulated on this fascinating compilation of true tales.” Aeroplane
For Lightning Boys 2:
“Another factual and fascinating, humorous and inspiring account.” Aberdeen Press & Journal
For Phantom Boys:
“A brilliant read for any Phantom fan.” Air Forces Monthly
For Helicopter Boys:
“A diverse, pacey and interesting book.” Flypast
More books by Richard Pike and available from Grub Street:
Lightning Boys (9781911621027) Lightning Boys 2 (9781911621065) Hunter Boys (9781911621034) Phantom Boys (9781911621881) Phantom Boys 2 (9781910690390) Helicopter Boys (9781910690550)
Takis Diakoumis, Flight Line Book Review –
“Cold War Boys includes a number of more amusing anecdotes with the author squarely in the middle of the action. The preservation of Cold War history is an ongoing challenge; Richard Pike’s contribution to it will help future generations see directly through the cockpit of the crews that held the watch.”