The Berlin Airlift
Tunner, William H. (Lieutnant General, USAF)
This booklet is a reprint of the chapter entitled "Berlin Airlift" from Over the Hump, Lieutenant General William H. Tunner's autobiography. It has been produced in booklet form by special permission of the Office of Air Force History in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift.
As General Tunner so vividly recounts, the Berlin Airlift riveted world attention on post-war Europe and the escalating tension between the Soviet Union and its former allies. Applying many of the lessons learned from flying supply operations over the "Hump" from India to China during World War II, General Tunner fine-tuned the efficiency and effectiveness of the airlift to such an extent that it surpassed even his own optimistic expectations. At the peak of the airlift, during the famous "Easter Parade" of 15-16 April 1949, an aircraft landed at one of Berlin's three airfields every 62 seconds. Airlift crews made 1,398 flights, delivering 12,941 tons in a single 24-hour period, with no accidents or injuries.
In retrospect, the Berlin Airlift accomplished much more than the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Politically, it galvanized American commitment to European freedom, stability, and security. Tactically, it demonstrated the ability to use air power to further national policy by peaceful means. Logistically, it helped define the requirements for new generations of larger, more powerful Air Force transport aircraft.
General Tunner's contributions as commander of the Berlin Airlift, and later as commander in chief of United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) from July 1953 to July 1957, earned him a place of honor in USAFE history. We are proud to remember his selfless service and to publish this excerpt from his personal memoirs as part of this 50th anniversary celebration.
Softcover
80 Seiten / pages
two photos
very good condition
Ramstein Air Base, Germany - 1998 - Office of History United States Air Forces in Europe
Art.Nr. 25202
