Wildcats over Casablanca: U. S. Navy Fighters In Operation Torch (Aviation Classics Ser.)

By: M. T. Wordell and Keith Ayling and E. N. Seiler

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Synopsis: Wildcats Over Casablanca, first published in 1943, is a first-hand account by U.S. naval aviators in World War Two's 'Operation Torch' – the November 1942 British-American invasion of French North Africa and their fighting against the Vichy French. The exploits of the airmen, based on the aircraft carrier USS Ranger, and flying their trusted Grumman F4F “Wildcats” are described, as are sorties of the carrier’s bomber and scout squadrons. French battleship Jean Bart, still under construction following the French surrender to Germany, was in the Casablanca Harbor, and sunk as part of the Operation. The Operation was also significant as it was one of the first wartime engagements to use carriers in support of an amphibious landing. During the combat, co-author “Mac” Wordell, who commanded the squadron – known as the “Red Rippers” – was shot down and taken prisoner by the Vichy French, and an interesting perspective is provided of the divided French loyalties prevalent at that time.