«In this first-rate account of World War II’s unsung glider pilots, Scott McGaugh takes readers on a plunging ride into the crucible of combat. McGaugh’s vivid narrative combined with pilots’ eyewitness testimonies provide a page-turning story of these pioneering aviators who navigated challenges in the air and on the ground with courage and perseverance. Buckle up – you’re about to be towed over the battlefield in an engineless glider for a one-way trip into chaos.»

James M. Fenelon, author of 'Four Hours of Fury' and 'Angels Against the Sun'

«Scott McGaugh artfully blends the little-known tactical campaign history of WWII glider pilots with their individual heroism, courage, and sacrifice. This book reads more like a gut-wrenching novel with defenseless readers in the co-pilot’s seat as they land (or crash) in enemy territory ahead of every major Europe invasion.»

Colonel Donald G. Patton, U.S. Army (Ret.) and Founder of World War II History Round Table

«By focusing on a handful of young, incredibly brave glider pilots, Scott McGaugh has brilliantly and poignantly personalized the real-life terror of what these boys faced when they flew into Normandy in little more than crates. But the title is wrong: coffins were built much better than these gliders.”»

Flint Whitlock, editor of 'WWII Quarterly' and author of 'If Chaos Reigns: The Near-Disaster and Ult

«An unforgettable read, revealing incredible stories throughout.»

History Book Chat