Beyond Valor

A World War II Story of Extraordinary Heroism, Sacrificial Love, and a Race Against Time

By: Jon Erwin, William Doyle

Narrated by: Zach Hoffman, Jon Erwin

Length: 6 hrs and 59 mins

Publisher's summary

On April 12, 1945, a fleet of American B-29 bombers flew toward Japan. Their mission was simple: Stop World War II by burning the cities, factories, and military bases of the Japanese em­pire, thereby forcing an unconditional surrender. But it didn't go as planned. Beyond Valor is one soldier's extraordinary tale of bravery, faith, and devotion.

Onboard one of the B-29s, the City of Los Angeles, a phosphorus bomb detonated inside the plane. Staff Sergeant Henry E. "Red" Erwin absorbed the blast of burning phosphorus and managed to throw the still-flaming bomb overboard be­fore collapsing from the third-degree burns that covered his body.

Breaking protocol, the plane diverted to a military hospital at Iwo Jima. President Truman quickly ordered that Erwin be awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest honor of the American military.

Drawn from in-depth interviews with eyewitnesses and deep archival research, Beyond Valor tells the gripping story of Erwin's life—from his upbringing in the suburbs of Birmingham, Alabama, to his enduring commitment to supporting veterans. Beyond Valor gives you a front-row seat to Erwin's amazing life and legacy. Along the way, you'll learn:

• How Erwin's childhood in Birmingham shaped his faith and his family
• How a split-second decision changed the course of his life
• The countless ways that Erwin chose to give back to his fellow veterans after he returned home

Beyond Valor is about more than that fateful day in April 1945. It's a story of one man's journey from the ultimate despair to a place beyond service, beyond honor, and beyond valor: a life illuminated by the light of God's love.

©2020 Jon Erwin and William Doyle (P)2020 Thomas Nelson

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I got this book because it dealt with aviation history. The first few words were all about "Red" Erwin, Medal of Honor recipient. It got better and the author weaves him into the story of the war in the Pacific during WWII. And, don't forget that he loved God and his family too. The book was short ( 7 hours) and to the point.

Pretty Good Listen

I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this book, but thought I'd give it a try. I've read several books about the B-29 recently, so was passingly familiar with the Red Erwin story. This book naturally expanded on it, as one would expect, but was also not a bad overview of the B-29 saga over Japan. If you're not really familiar with this topic, this is not a bad way to find out about it; not super detailed, but provides enough information that you won't feel lost.

One of the best books I’ve ever listened to!!!

This book is a must listen!
Be ready… it may become your favorite book of all times. And that is no exaggeration!
As a story of a well-lived godly life,- it inspires you to re-examine your values and fills your heart with inspiration and courage to go and be used by God in every day challenges. “Uncommon Valor” was an excellent pic of a title!
Great job, Erwin Brothers! You blessed me once more.
You do have a God given talent of storytelling, no doubt. I have gained a brand new perspective on history as well as my country, thank you so much! I can only pray you will make it a movie, it surely can become of the best tools in the Lords hand Entertainment industry needs so much!!!
... If you are looking for the truth, that can inspire and propel your personal growth, you will indeed do yourself a huge favor to buy this book and listen to it first and then send it as a gift to your whole family.
Prepare to fall in love❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
You will not be disappointed!

Incredible

The story of Red Irwin is one that should be required reading. Completely burned by phosphorus during a bombing run, Erwin depended on his Christian faith to get him through. How he survived and persevered is a miracle only God could allow.

Amazing story of heroism and resilience

I write very few reviews but felt compelled to write this one.
The book was not what I expected, nevertheless it was more than I had hoped for. The story wove the history of WW II in the Pacific Theatre with the bravery and humility of Mr. Red Erwin a recipient of the Medal of Honor.
There were parts of the book that were difficult to listen to as it related the horrors of war - the treatment of American POWs and the bombing of cities in Japan. The depths of human cruelty as well as the compassion cannot truly be understood even when seeing with the eyes of faith.
There are probably thousands of books written about the war in Europe, but to my knowledge not as much about the war with Japan.
This is a well written story with attention paid to historical events woven in with the lives of very brave men, especially Mr. Erwin.
He has left a legacy that only God will be able to unravel.
This book should be a must read.

Absolute MUST READ, to know our heritage!

words cannot express the amount infinite detail, heartfelt and in-depth research , that was put into this book. an amazing amount of our history, of all our lives, that needs to be read, and reread to our children and our children's children.

Inspirational

Very inspirational book. Sound like Mr. Erwin was a remarkable man.
The story and the narration are both done very well.

I loved it!

While listening to the narrator I was struck by a lot of the heroism that the soldiers went thru.. I cried and laughed at multiple times and would gladly listen to this book multiple times. Also, while listening to this story helped me to understand why my grandfather never told of his time in the military. I will also gladly recommend this book to anyone.

Inspirational, story of true heroism; captivating

This is such an important retelling of the selfless action of Red Erwin who suffered unimaginable pain and agony so that others might live. You'll want to listen to the very end. Highly recommend.