USS Intrepid's Fighting Squadron 18 (VF-18) was one of the most formidable carrier-based units of World War II, achieving extraordinary success despite being largely composed of novice pilots. During their intense 81-day tour, the squadron's aviators, including Cecil "Speedball" Harris-the Navy's second-highest-scoring ace-amassed over 170 aerial victories, earning them the nickname "Two-a-Day 18" in nationwide newspapers. Intrepid's Fighting Squadron 18 traces the journey of these pilots from rigorous training to the brutal realities of aerial combat, weaving together their personal stories, friendships, and sacrifices. Drawing from extensive archival and family records, author Mike Fink brings to life the squadron's diverse personalities, such as the determined young pilot "Moe" Mollenhauer, the outspoken yet controversial "Punchy" Mallory, and the skilled and disciplined Harris, who mentored his peers for battle. Joining the Navy's fast-carrier force in August 1944, VF-18 played a pivotal role in the Pacific theater, engaging in some of the war's most decisive battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Formosa Air Battle, where they secured numerous victories but also endured severe losses. They also witnessed the emergence of Japan's desperate kamikaze tactics, an ominous shift that underscored the war's deadly climax. Through gripping storytelling and meticulous research, Intrepid's Fighting Squadron 18 not only highlights the remarkable combat achievements of these pilots but also explores the profound camaraderie and personal cost of war, shedding light on the men who shaped history and the war that forever changed them. 304 Pages Dimensions 9 x 6 x 1 inches Published January 2025
