Ace in a Day: The Memoir of an Eighth Air Force Fighter Pilot in World War II

Lt Col Wayne K Blickenstaff

Apr 2023 · Tantor Media Inc · Narrated by Alex Wyndham

About this audiobook

Wayne K. Blickenstaff, known as "Blick," was a stalwart of the 350th Fighter Squadron of the 353rd Fighter Group based at Goxhill, Metfield, and Raydon, England, as part of the Eighth Air Force prosecuting the strategic air campaign against Germany. As an original cadre member, he rose steadily through the ranks to a Lieutenant Colonel and Group Operations Officer. His double "ace" status included a Me262 jet fighter and the destruction of five aircraft in one mission-giving him rare "ace in a day" status. Ace in a Day is Blick's honest and gritty personal memoir of his air war in Europe. His account conveys a true sense of just how dangerous flying World War II fighters, in all weather conditions, really was. A moment's inattention, overconfidence, or simple mistake could be deadly. As a keen observer of character, Blick's pen portraits of those around him, including many of those who sadly did not survive the war, offer a poignant and deeply moving tribute to those with whom he served. Supported by an impressive array of original documentation and detailed appendices, including Blick's never-before published wartime journal, Ace in a Day provides a unique and valuable insight into the harsh realities of the air war in Europe from one of the "Mighty Eighth's" top fighter pilots.

About the author

Having achieved his dream of learning to fly, Wayne K. Blickenstaff set aside his wings and had a successful career as an advertising, editorial, and book illustrator. He later became a teacher and art director. During retirement he pursued his interest in writing and his book Ace in a Day was his passion project.

An Oxford University and Royal Academy of Dramatic Art graduate, Alex Wyndham has voiced everything from Apple iPad campaigns to fertilizer instructions. He's also starred in several BBC and HBO shows, including the Emmy Award-winning Little Dorrit and Rome, and in various films.

Graham Cross earned his doctorate in history from the University of Cambridge and specializes in twentieth century American military, diplomatic, and political history. He is a respected expert on the history of the 8th Air Force and for thirty-five years has been the historian and UK contact for the 353rd Fighter Group.