Barry Blake of the Flying Fortress

"Barry Blake of the Flying Fortress" by Gaylord Du Bois is a novel written in the early 1940s. The story follows the journey of Barry Blake and his friend Chick Enders as they undergo rigorous training at Randolph Field during World War II to become military pilots. Throughout their training, they encounter various challenges, both physical and mental, that test their mettle as they prepare for combat in a global conflict. At the start of the narrative, Barry and Chick arrive at Randolph Field, where they are greeted by upperclass cadets enforcing strict military discipline. The opening chapters showcase their initial struggles with the demanding environment, including hazing and the pressure to excel in flight training. Barry reflects on their friendship and experiences, while Chick grapples with feelings of inadequacy exacerbated by the sabotage of a fellow cadet, Glenn Crayle. As they adapt to the hardships of cadet life and hone their flying skills, readers gain insight into the camaraderie and resilience required of pilots during wartime. The narrative sets the stage for a more intense exploration of aerial combat and the friendships that will be tested in the face of danger.