Wings Of Victory

From the creators of The World War II Video Library of the China-Burma-India Theater (reviewed in our January 1992 issue), this new series uses historical footage, maps, graphics, and interviews to tell the story of the 20th Air Force who flew the B-29 Superfortress during WWII. Part 1 traces the development of the B-29 from its initial planning stages in 1940 to the building of six runways in China from which to launch the massive planes on air raids into Japanese-held territories. Plagued by mechanical problems and lack of training, the initial B-29 missions had low hit rates and suffered comparatively high casualties. In 1944, the 20th flew some 25 missions, 13 directly into Japan. At the beginning of 1945, the 20th left China to take up positions on Guam, Saipan, and Tinian. Part II chronicles the increased activity of the 20th during the first half of 1945, while Part III covers the final missions against the flagging Japanese empire. As much tribute as history, Wings of Victory is likely to be popular with WWII veterans, and is recommended for those with strong military collections. (Available from: Monumental Productions, 12811 8th Ave. West, Suite #A201, Everett, WA 98204-6300; (206) 742-4500; and Baker & Taylor Video.)