Hello guys
As stated before, I am glad that The History Channel is broadcasting Dogfights, I think that it is an interesting program and as it is one of the most popular programs of that channel it hopefully will inspire others to become interested in this aspect of military history. However, I stand by my original comments. Just one example of where I believe the producers erred: I remember very well that in the Flying Tigers episode it was stated that the AVG
shot down 24 Japanese aircraft without loss on 25 December 1941 over Rangoon. I am no AVG scholar but just by visiting
www.warbirdforum.com/rangoon4.htm on Dan Ford's web site I can see that the true Japanese losses were far less - four Sally twin-engined bombers and four Nate fighters (and any claims must include those of 67 Sqn, RAF which suffered five pilot casualties that day by the way). Stating that 24 Japanese aircraft were shot down is an egregious error by any standard. It should have been stated that the AVG (and RAF)
claimed 24 victories that day. My second observation is merely personal and not a criticism. As someone whose primary interest is the Luftwaffe, I wish that once in a while there would be an episode that highlights the achievements of the great German aces as they too have a story to tell. It is my personal belief that most Americans would be dumbstruck if they knew of the career of Oberstleutnant Heinz Bär for example. At the same time, though, I realize that this is an American show, for an American audience, and not many Americans would be interested in the exploits of the other side. Nevertheless, it would be enlightening for them and the global audience that Dogfights reaches to have exposure to the Luftwaffe aces' achievements as well.
Horrido!
Leo