MILITARYSPRING2022US

ALSO AVAILABLE 2022 NEW RELEASES 6 Black Lion ONE TOPGUN Trailblazer Capt. John Monroe “Hawk” Smith in Command of VF-213 Donald E. Auten Readers who enjoyed the popular Roger Ball! can finally learn the rest of Hawk’s story Author Don Auten is a decorated naval aviator and worked closely with Hawk when crafting the narrative Learn about the exciting life of a high-powered Navy fighter pilot and leader: this book is intended to entertain, not just to inform This historical biography of John Monroe “Hawk” Smith, Navy fighter pilot, is a gripping account of valor, sacrifice, and adventure during one of the most tumultuous periods in carrier aviation. It was no surprise when Hawk, having completed a stunning tour as commanding officer of TOPGUN, received orders to a frontline F-14 Tomcat squadron—VF-213, the “Black Lions.” Hawk joined the Black Lions prior to their March 1979 deployment. Several critical factors portended to a most arduous workup period and deployment—there were issues lurking. But Hawk was a man who did not shy away from a challenge. Soon, the Lions would have opportunities to show their colors. These included the first-ever Fighter Derby at NAS Miramar, California—the “World Cup” for naval fighter squadrons, and Constant Peg, a highly classified “Black Program” that exposed aircrews to the capabilities of Soviet fighters. Aviation enthusiasts and historians will be captivated by the historical fidelity and descriptive air combat engagements, amused by the perpetual mirth of TACAIR aviators, and inspired by lessons of leadership that apply to all walks of life. Donald Auten , a light-attack pilot and TOPGUN graduate, logged nearly 5,000 flying hours and completed two commanding-officer tours. He is also the author of Roger Ball! and Alika: Odyssey of a Navy Dolphin . Author Location: Etna, Wyoming ISBN: 978-0-7643-6344-3 Size: 6" x 9" (152 x 228 mm) Pages: 224 Price: $29.99 Illustrations: 32 color and b/w photos Binding: hardcover BISAC: BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / Aviation & Nautical AVAILABLE JULY SEE PAGES 47 & 38 FOR RELATED TITLES WHISTLING DEATH 978-0-88740-732-1 288 pp. | 6" x 9" (152 x 228 mm) | HC | $29.99 FEET WET 978-0-7643-0284-8 368 pp. | 6" x 9" (152 x 228 mm) | HC | $29.95