The sixth episode of Black Sheep Chronicles: VMF-214 in World War II is now on YouTube. Last year (HERE), Gamble unveiled an exciting new series of episodes focusing on the renowned Black Sheep Squadron (VMF-214). His debut book, “The Black Sheep,” published in 1998, offered a highly engaging narrative that not only expands but also corrects the historical account of VMF-214 and its legendary squadron leader, Greg “Pappy” Boyington. With four titles currently available, Bruce Gamble is widely acknowledged as a leading author of the Pacific Air War. Part 6 of the Black Sheep Chronicles series tells the story of VMF-214’s reorganization at MCAS Santa Barbara in early 1944, and follows the new squadron through an entire year of costly training before they deployed aboard the USS Franklin in February 1945. The video features rare wartime color footage of Corsairs at Santa Barbara, and the well-known drama of the USS Franklin’s bombing off the coast of Japan on March 19th, 1945. The terrible ordeal knocked VMF-214 out of the war with heavy loss of life.

Episode 6

Black Sheep Chronicles, Part 1: Wildcat Days

Black Sheep Chronicles, Part 2: Corsairs and Swashbucklers!

Black Sheep Chronicles, Part 3: The Origins of The Black Sheep

Black Sheep Chronicles, Part 4: Maj. Boyington’s 1st Combat Tour

Black Sheep Chronicles, Part 5: Maj. Boyington’s 2nd Combat Tour