The Douglas C-47 Skytrain and its near twin, the C-53 Skytrooper, formed the backbone of American airborne transport during WWII. In addition to hauling cargo, these aircraft also delivered paratroopers to the front, including the Normandy invasion. The aircraft also towed troop-laden gliders during these operations and incredibly could also snatch gliders from the ground while the C-47 was in flight. Derived from the Douglas DC-3, the C-47 saw service with US and Allied militaries in Korea and even Vietnam, including notably the heavily armed AC-47D gunship. This volume explores the development and use of the aircraft, as well as details of its construction. AUTHOR: David Doyle is a prolific author best known for his archive of superb vintage photography. He serves as the editor for History in Motion, the official publication of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association, an organization for which he also serves on the board of directors. He lives in Memphis, Tennessee. 285 colour and b/w photographs