Boyd

The Fighter Pilot Who Changed the Art of War

By: Robert Coram

Narrated by: Patrick Lawlor

Length: 19 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

John Boyd may be the most remarkable unsung hero in all of American military history. Some remember him as the greatest US fighter pilot ever - the man who, in simulated air-to-air combat, defeated every challenger in less than 40 seconds. Some recall him as the father of our country's most legendary fighter aircraft - the F-15 and F-16. Still, others think of Boyd as the most influential military theorist since Sun Tzu. They know only half the story.

Boyd, more than any other person, saved fighter aviation from the predations of the Strategic Air Command. His manual of fighter tactics changed the way every air force in the world flies and fights. He discovered a physical theory that forever altered the way fighter planes were designed. Later in life, he developed a theory of military strategy that has been adopted throughout the world, and even applied to business models for maximizing efficiency. On a personal level, Boyd rarely met a general he couldn't offend. He was loud, abrasive, and profane. A man of daring, ferocious passion and intractable stubbornness, he was that most American of heroes - a rebel who cared not for his reputation or fortune, but for his country.

©2002 Robert Coram (P)2016 Tantor

Courage to do what’s Right

This is a must read by all who served. The book is a powerful insight to this man’s life his contribution to the “Pointy End Warrior” and that he must never
go to war in a Fair Fight.

One of the best biographies I’ve ever read

I don’t ever write comments or reviews but felt the need to do so after this book. Coram does an amazing job detailing the life and impact of Boyd, and all those whom he influenced along the way. This story is touching, funny, educational, and always engaging. Boyd is truly fascinating and once you learn about his legacy, you will probably be inspired in your own way. Shame on me for not reading this book years sooner.

Worth another listen Great Story

Great Story and delivers in a manner that felt you were their For such an over achiever sad to see with his insight on being able to read people and plan ahead he was unable to provide for his own family and children emotional needs and the human toll it took on his wife and 5 children. Non the less a compelling story and background delivered well. It was hard to stop listening to this well researched book. This is one audible book that I will listen to several more times again

Under appreciated Patriot

Boyd and his partners should be household names for their contributions and dedication
to our country.

Incredible

What a person hope I can learn more unbelievable research and presentation need more like him

Give it time. It's worth it.

This book is surprisingly excellent. More than meets the eye. Highly recommend. Flat out amazing.

If I had to pick a word for this book: humbling

It’s been a few years since I’ve read a book that hit me hard enough to think it would leave a lifelong impression. I believe my life will take a different course as a result of reading this book. Colonel John Boyd... your story has humbled me, and I hope that I can honor your legacy by thinking about your example whenever I come to the decision we will all face one day; to be, or to do? The author is brilliant.

Great insight into the DOD machine

I thought this was a great detail of an uncompromising man’s work inside One of our nations most important bureaucratic organizations. Very detailed, personal and professional. Especially loved the last part of the book.

Great Story

Slightly romanticized but very fascinating insight into the old days of fighter piloting and the pentagon.

A Book That Soars Above the Rest

I loved this book. Maybe it's because John Boyd was from Erie Pennsylvania close to where my father and mother are from. Maybe it's because he was Air Force and I was Air Force (albeit I was an AFRTS broadcaster). Maybe it's because he was at the Air Force Academy, I was stationed at the Academy. Maybe it's because he was at the Pentagon and my uncle was at the Pentagon around the same timeframe. I actually believe I gave this book all fives is because it's a damn good book.

John Boyd was quite the character and larger than life. He was brilliant and he was eccentric. He was dead serious and he could be fun loving. He was not a very good family man, but he changed the way America fights wars in the air and on the ground. He developed the EM theory of flight and it revolutionized the way air wars were fought. He created the OODA Loop which the Air Force, Navy, and the Army ignored. The US Marines bought into the concept and it helped the US to win the Iraq war. Boyd was responsible for helping ensure that tanks, planes, and other military hardware were safe for those using them. Boyd was more than a rabble-rouser. He was looking to hose someone. It didn't matter if it was a civilian or a general. If they didn't get what he was trying to sell them he would hose them.

This book tells the story of a great man. The writing is fantastic and the narration is one of the best I heard. I was engaged in this book from beginning to end.

To learn about a great unsung hero get this book. You won't regret it!