Published: 22 August 2007
Air & Space Power Journal- Fall 2007

Liaison Pilot by James R. Bryce. Sunflower University Press, 2002, 120 pages, $10.95.

Flying by visual rules in marginal weather without radios says much about the times and survivors of such a training regimen. During World War II, the US Army Air Forces mobilized for war in Europe, where conditions were even worse. TSgt James R. Bryce flew tiny airplanes, principally the Stinson L-5, during this time. In this brief memoir woven from his wartime letters, pilot log, and vivid memories, he sets out to tell the reader what a liaison pilot did in the war—and he does a good job.

Bryce engages the reader immediately by his rejection of the fighter-pilot path, a candid self-­assessment based on his dislike of the Vultee BT-13 Valiant trainer. His sincerity binds the story, drawing the reader across the country and then the Atlantic.

Operating generally in rear areas, Bryce hauls the mail, couriers, and senior officers, staging from muddy and treacherous pastures. Spotting for the artillery was not a liaison function, but Bryce flies a few reconnaissance missions. Detailed maps allow the reader to follow him and the 72nd Liaison Squadron from Italy across France and into northern Germany by VE-day. Bryce witnesses the horrible consequences of war and survives to face his own mortality.

Bryce could have moved his story faster with more show and less tell. He could have increased its reference value with more specific history and statistical information on the 72nd Liaison Squadron. What was its official mission? How was it tasked? What was its combat record? What became of it? Parts of the book would benefit from a bit more beef. For example, he offers, “I suddenly lost control of the aircraft and crashed into the side of the hill” (p. 42). That little sentence would have filled a colorful chapter in my book.

Overall, Liaison Pilot is a worthwhile two-hour read. Its greatest appeal lies in the offer of a candid look back in time. The protagonist is likeable. The story is genuine and unique.

Col James E. Roper, USAF, Retired
Colorado Springs, Colorado

Disclaimer

The conclusions and opinions expressed in this document are those of the author cultivated in the freedom of expression, academic environment of Air University . They do not reflect the official position of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, the United States Air Force or the Air University .

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