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Not Just Another War Story is a link to America's past, one that is filled with tremendous sacrifice and unprecedented acts of heroism from unexpected sources. Although this novel focuses centrally on Pappy's Pack and the crew of the 305th Bomb Group of the Eighth Air Force, it is representative of the more than forty bomb groups that participated in World War II. From the beginning, the narrative features a strong sense of realism and meticulous attention to detail that transports readers directly into above-the air action. Many of the scenes demand the extensive exposition provided to assist readers with visualizing the development of complex sequences. MacDowell's novel is an undeniable showcase of ceaseless effort in accruing factual accounts of World War II. History buffs will appreciate that many scenes in the novel come equipped with a specific timeline and inside knowledge of the war regions that only a soldier who lived through the moment could provide.
Steve Carmichael, a University of Florida graduate and top prospect of the Detroit Tigers baseball organization is the main character; however, it is through him that MacDowell symbolizes the value, virtue, and sacrifice one makes when he commits to lay his life on the line for his country. Conjure the image of a newly minted college degree, and the hopes of living a prosperous life, being traded in for military uniforms by individuals who, only recently, left their teenage years behind. In some cases, as the narrative will demonstrate, some soldiers are only eighteen, like gunner Ronald Lattamus. The novel does an excellent job of presenting the often heartbreaking side of losing one's friends and fellow soldiers. Perhaps the toughest element of an air force captain is informing the family of a crew member that their child is a casualty of the war.
Romance is a key component of Not Just Another War Story. Most war-time romances are just a summer fling; the relationship between Steve and Maggie is clearly not. Today, too few individuals truly understand and appreciate the enormous commitment and sacrifice of World War II soldiers and, in part, their beloved. The author carefully unearths the human side of these individuals to depict just how much they gave up so America could be a better place for future generations. Steve's dedication to spending time with Maggie, whenever he could get a pass, along with the relationship with his father, Ray, who taught Steve to fly at twelve proves that soldiers, like civilians, live their life on hope, love, and friendship.
Interestingly, MacDowell's uncle was First Lieutenant Wright E. Gerke, head of the Gerke Crew that not only shared training with the Carmichael Crew, but also shared many evenings and drinks in the O-Club. Steve Carmichael and Howard VanDyke III's friendship is only a small sample of the level of dedication and camaraderie on display by the different factions of the military. www.305thbombgroup.com is the virtual home of the 305th Bomb Group Memorial Association, but represents, as they describe, a fellowship of men who were willing to pay—and many who did pay—the ultimate price in Nazi-occupied Europe. Many of the scenes in this book come directly from the shared memories of the veterans themselves.
Romance and friendship withstanding, Not Just Another War Story is a powerful tool for interested readers to learn about the war in the skies that features B-17 aircrafts, fierce German opponents, nonstop gunfire, and the shadow of death lurking until mission completion. Stationed in Chelveston, England, the 305th Bombardment Group, piloted by Steve Carmichael, takes their $300,000 bombers into hostile territories like Kiel, Germany. The dialogue surrounding the action in the air is by far the most captivating and gives insight into how the characters perceive their friendships and commitments to their country. Audiences will get to learn about famous World War II battle regions and the anatomy of potent planes like the B-17, P-38, and P-47.
Not Just Another War Story is doused in the reality of one of the most brutal wars in America's history. The experiences shared within these pages show a different side to the wars, a human side filled with hopes and dreams. More dialogue between characters and less narration would have brought each and every character to life for all readers. Nevertheless, this is a meaningful read for World War II and history enthusiasts.