SR-71 Blackbird: Stories, Tales, and Legends

Meet the brave and determined people who gave their hearts, minds, and, in some cases, their lives to put Lockheed’s incredibly fast SR—71 Blackbird in the sky.

In SR—71 Blackbird: Stories, Tales, and Legends, former SR—71 pilot, instructor, and wing commander Colonel Richard Graham presents the most intriguing SR—71 stories ever told. This once highly classified program is fully revealed through the words of pilots, commanders, mechanics, and instructors involved in the Blackbird’s creation and flight testing. From grueling reconnaissance missions to the Persian Gulf conflict, this insightful book is brimming with stories of courage and perseverance.

Including detailed commentary by Colonel Graham, drawn from 15 years of assignments within the SR—71 community, and with a foreword by the late deputy director of the National Air and Space Museum Don Lopez, this fascinating book answers all the questions you might have about this legendary airplane.

Running chronologically, from the first A—12 flights to the record—breaking transcontinental delivery flight of the SR—71 now in the National Air and Space Museum collection, each chapter begins with a brief biographical sketch of the featured Blackbird program participant, followed by their firsthand accounts. Explore:

• Personal stories, legends, traditions, and behind—the—scenes activities of the Blackbird program
• Sidebars amplifying and expanding on aspects of the stories
• The meanings of Blackbird—related terms such as Habu, unstart, Bat Caver, and hook
• Black—and—white photos of the participants at work and play
• SR—71 key events timeline

Feel the Mach 3 power of this awesome aircraft and gain an appreciation of just how unique the Blackbird program really was.