Caroline Alexander's new book, "Skies of Thunder: The Deadly World War II Mission Over the Roof of the World," provides a detailed examination of the perilous aerial route known as "the Hump," used during World War II to transport supplies from India to China after the Allied loss of Burma to the Japanese in April 1942. This route was crucial in supporting Chiang Kai-shek’s Nationalist government and Allied forces, including the 14th Air Force led by Claire Chennault.
Highlighting the personal struggles and operational challenges faced in the China-Burma-India Theater, the book depicts a scene of logistical nightmares, enigmatic alliances, and extreme weather conditions that pilots had to navigate. The pilots, sometimes called "Hump drivers," faced immense risks, including treacherous terrain, hostile weather, and enemy attacks, often with inadequate equipment or support. Alexander portrays these pilots as intrepid figures, essential yet underappreciated within the broader scope of military history.
Laced with political drama, Alexander delves into the tumultuous relationships among key figures such as American General Joseph Stilwell, Chiang Kai-shek, and Claire Chennault, which further complicated operations in the theater. The book also discusses the significant amounts of cargo flown over this challenging route, emphasizing both the logistical achievements and the high human cost marked by numerous plane crashes.
"Skies of Thunder" not only offers an account of the aviation feats over "the Hump" but also reflects on the strategic importance and the flawed execution of operations in one of World War II's most chaotic theaters.