Fighter Pilot

The Memoirs of Legendary Ace Robin Olds

By: Robin Olds, Christina Olds, Ed Rasimus

Narrated by: Robertson Dean

Length: 17 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

A larger-than-life hero with a towering personality, Robin Olds was a graduate of West Point and an inductee in the National College Football Hall of Fame for his All-American performance for Army. In World War II, Olds quickly became a top fighter pilot and squadron commander by the age of 22—a double ace with 12 aerial victories.

But it was in Vietnam where the man became a legend. He motivated a dejected group of pilots by placing himself under junior officers and challenging them to train him properly. He led the wing with aggressiveness, scoring another four confirmed kills and becoming a rare triple ace. With his marriage to Hollywood actress and pin-up girl Ella Raines, his nonregulation mustache and penchant for drink, Olds was a unique individual whose story is one of the most eagerly anticipated military books of the year.

Christina Olds, the daughter of Robin Olds, holds a B.A. in English and creative writing from Vassar, is a member of the Air Force Association, and is the first honorary lifetime member of the Red River Valley Association.

Ed Rasimus is a retired USAF fighter pilot who holds a B.S. in political science and an M.S. in both political science and international relations. He has previously written two books on the Vietnam air war, When Thunder Rolled and Palace Cobra.

©2010 Robin Olds with Christina Olds and Ed Rasimus (P)2010 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Massively welcomed by his legion of fans." (Walter J. Boyne, author and former director of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.)

What a man.

This guy was a man’s man and a phenomenal leader. I wish our military still had some like him. Truly sad that he had such turmoil in his marriage, but what a life otherwise! A great story, very well captured, very well read and full of laughs. I’ve listened to it twice now.

A book to read, and re-read.

Robin Olds lived life with a spirit that could be emulated regardless of one’s race, color, creed, or background. That spirit was one of fullness, presence, honor, integrity, loyalty, courage, love, excellence, and above all, authenticity… Robin Olds lived out the truth of his soul. If I can be half the leader he was, I’d be honored. I feel bad for anyone who doesn’t get a chance to read this book, and know the historic, epic life which was lived out by what was, undoubtedly, one our Nation’s finest citizens. May you fly forever, Robin. You are my hero.

Proof that Hard Times Create Strong Men

A beautifully written memoir of an American hero and icon. We can only hope to achieve a sliver of General Olds’ spirit and fire.

Outstanding!!!

What a ride! Don’t miss it! It’s engaging and captivating. So glad I found it.

Air power

A raw and honest portrait of an exceptional leader. a great book to learn about history and leadership. should be a mandatory read for Air Force Cadets

Great Audiobook!

I couldn't stop listening to this biography about Robin Olds. The book is a treasure trove of history about WWII and Viet Nam. If you are a student of history, this book will be a goldmine of information about the war years.

Wow..

This book is one of those books you can listen to over and over again. The narration is excellent. It's a good marker for how the military works, and the joys and frustrations of a man who clearly enjoyed his career. There are high points and also low points to the book. I found myself laughing and even quite distraught at times. I would recommend this book to any who enjoy reading about military memoirs, action, adventure, war, military life, and aviation.

well told story of an interesting life

I found this autobiography very engaging. It tells the story of a man who thoroughly loved his profession and had a passion for doing the right thing. I enjoyed listening to his tale and was rooting for him at every turn of events.

Well told

What does Robertson Dean bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The narrator did a very good job speaking for Robin Olds. Very good performance.

Any additional comments?

I am in the Air Force and am very glad I found this book.

a truly great story about a truly great man

Brigadier General Robin olds legendary fighter pilot and Great American. a man who knew how to fight a war. may he rest in peace. flying through the sky watching over all of us.