Unfaltering Courage

Unfaltering Courage honors the bravery and resilience of the men who fought in World War II. Ray Vachon, of Somersworth New Hampshire, survived fifty bombing missions in the Mediterranean Theater in 1944. The diaries he kept tell a gripping tale of six months that became the defining moments of his life. An enlisted airman, Ray chronicled the dangerous duty faced by the men of the Fifteenth Air Force flying out of southern Italy, a deadly theater of military action during the months he was there. His journal also sheds light on the tragedies that befell servicemen during aerial training in the US in the 1940s. This book brings Ray's wartime experience to life, drawing on personal interviews, historical photos, and original artwork. His diary straps us into the gunner's seat and sends us into the flak field. We can feel the fatigue and tension he must have felt after long days over enemy territory. The narrative helps readers understand how spartan conditions were for B-24 crews and the incredibly dangerous odds they faced. 'Looking back, I realize how truly lucky my dad was to survive,' reflects Ray's son Dennis Vachon, who compiled the narrative to preserve his father's story and honor the sacrifice of those who did not return. After reading Unfaltering Courage, US Air Force Colonel Matthew Robinson wrote: 'I could really relate to Ray's story. The challenging weather, maintenance issues, threats, camaraderie, and details about flying with a crew. I have flown many combat missions, but I can't even imagine the danger flight crews faced back then, and the level of losses they sustained. How did they have the courage to keep going? Many families have lost stories; this memoir ensures the heroism and character of TSgt. Vachon will live on. It truly is an amazing story.'Ray Vachon was an ordinary man who met the challenge of his times with real courage. His story inspires us all to cherish our country, look out for our buddies, kick up our heels when we get the chance, and never ever lose sight of the sweet joy of going home.