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
Related Articles
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
