The only US 8th Army Air Force fighter group to retain the mighty P-47 Thunderbolt throughout its combat tour in the European Theatre of Operations, the 56th Fighter Group justified its nickname of “Zemke’s Wolfpack” by the aggressive attitude and tactics instilled by its original wartime commander Hub Zemke. This attitude continued through to VE-Day under the auspices of his successors Dave Schilling and Lucian Dade, and it became the top scoring 8th Air Force group for victories in air-air combat. Justifiably considered one of the greatest tacticians and leaders in VIII Fighter Command, Zemke’s leadership engendered an esprit de corps that was second to none.

Fighting High Publishing brings together historians Nigel Julian and Peter Randall to tell the story of the ‘Wolfpack’, complimented by a Foreword from the Group’s wartime leader’s son Hub Zemke Jnr. The two authors are the owners of the websites at 56thfightergroup.co.uk and littlefriends.co.uk respectively, universally acknowledged as the two finest sites on the 56th and VIII Fighter Command. Having researched the 56th Fighter Group for many years, they have established an international reputation for their expertise in the history of this famous unit.

Looking beyond the Thunderbolt flightline, the authors have delved deep into their own extensive collections, along with the 56th Fighter Group museum archives and the many private photograph albums, made available to them by veterans and veteran’s families, in order to produce the most in-depth photographic record of the Wolfpack and its associated service units published to date. More than 400 photographs, the majority of which are previously unpublished, show views from behind the scenes alongside newly discovered aircraft noseart, social events, maintenance and repairs which, together with detailed captions, make this a visual and information feast. The modern day legacy is recorded with a section depicting memorials to the 56th Fighter Group. A full honour roll of those who made the ultimate sacrifice is included along with details of all confirmed claims by the Group’s air-air “Aces”.

All on schedule to be heading for the printers shortly.
The official launch is at Flying Legends in July where myself and Peter will be signing copies.

There may well be a special edition and also a limited edition artwork print.
Check the Fighting High Website for details.

Nice one mate I won't be able to make flying legends but I would like a signed copy?

Cheers Mal
There should be signed copies available direct from the publishers website, (when I can learn to write with a pen again as opposed to a keyboard).
I'll probably have a few copies with me at SMW as well, assuming there are any left from the first print run..( he says hopefully)

July can't come soon enough, can't wait for this book. Thank you Julian and your co-author for doing this. I'll have to buy a signed copy to.

James Sontag

Im 99% sure that signed copies will be available direct from the publishers.
Naturally, trans Atlantic postage will apply on this.

Unsigned copies will be available from "all good book stores" worldwide.

Well I could send the payment and pick it up at Telford?

Hi Nige,

Looks good and its good to see you back.

Any idea of a distributor in NZ or possibly Australia.

Cheers

Chris

Nige told me he will come Down Under, stay at my place, drink my beer, and sign copies for us all.

I've stocked the fridge, now I'm just sitting here waiting.

😁🍻

Damian,
I'm loading up my backpack,make sure have some ice cold VB in the fridge.

I'm only a couple of away.


Chris

News from the publishers is that it's on schedule for heading to the printers.
It'll be 208 pages and retail at £29.95.

Casemate are distributing it, and it will be available from "all good book stores" as the saying goes. Yes, even in NZ and Australia

As soon as P+P rates have been calculated, the book will be available on pre order directly from Fighting High. (Worldwide).
More details as and when I recieve them.

Not long now!

Fighting High have just announced that there will be a limited edition version of mine and Peters book!
"Gilded special editions.
Hardback signed books with silver gilt edging to the pages and presented in a wibalin covered slipcase with silver foil stamping on the front and spine. "
If you are interesting in purchasing one of these, please visit the link below and register your interest.
http://fightinghigh.com/specialeditions.htm

Registered my interest, this will be worth MILLIONS in years to come !

Just registered my interest in this as well.

Cool!
Thanks guys.
Spread the word!!

Hi all.
Everything going on schedule with this

The publisher has informed us that the special edition will be limited to
56 copies only

First come first served so if you're thinking of grabbing one of these I'd recommend getting your expression of interest registered with Fighting High asap.

Review is online now HERE .

Cheers, D