The Fighting Flying Boat

"Former PBM pilot Richard Hoffman has written the first comprehensive history of Mariner operations. This versatile seaplane was first deployed in 1941 during the Battle of the Atlantic, when it helped sink ten German U-boats. The following year it became a mainstay of the Naval Air Transport Service as the first aircraft to provide a vital link between Hawaii and the South Pacific. In combat, Mariners participated in every major offensive campaign from the Mariana Islands to Iwo Jima and Okinawa, sinking enemy submarines, ships, and aircraft. They also served as the main rescue aircraft, saving hundreds of airmen and seamen in spectacular open-sea rescue operations. At war's end, they were the first aircraft into Tokyo Bay." "This book recognizes the Martin PBM Mariner not only for its contributions to World War II but also the postwar years, when it was involved in the Korean War and with the exploration of the Arctic and Antarctic. Hoffman offers details of PBM fights with Chinese MiGs and patrol and reconnaissance missions. The author also highlights the seaplane's hazardous rescue missions with the Coast Guard and its service with foreign armed forces. Photos of Mariners in action accompany the narrative, and a list of all PBM casualties is appended."--BOOK JACKET.