Nose Art of the 5th Air Force: Pin-Ups and More, 1942–1947

In this lavishly illustrated book, World War II aviation historian Vincent (The RAAF Hudson Story) has compiled an extensive and thoroughly documented look at the nose art of the American 5th Air Force. Activated in September 1941, the 5th Air Force was headquartered in Australia after the Japanese occupied the Philippines. During the war, they flew bombing raids, reconnaissance missions, and offered close air support for U.S. operations in the Pacific. Many bomber crews adorned their planes with artwork inspired by pinup models found on calendars and in magazines such as Esquire. The large, flat surfaces of the planes were especially suited for this personalized form of naming and artwork. Fighter planes, to a lesser degree, received their own pieces of art. Although never officially sanctioned, nose art was widely tolerated. Where possible Vincent has included photos of different versions of the nose art, airplane serial numbers, the artist when known, and the fate of the plane. The pictures in this book, collected over two decades, are a treasure trove for World War II aviation enthusiasts.