"Never Call Me a Hero" is a treasure for any amateur historian, offering an immersive memoir that provides a unique perspective from someone who witnessed and played a pivotal role in a historic battle. Jack "Dusty" Kleiss, the humble hero at the heart of this gripping tale, was an aviator in the SBD Dauntless, delivering precision strikes on Japanese ships in the Pacific Theater. This autobiography, thoughtfully compiled by Timothy and Laura Orr from Kleiss's memoir and notes, transports readers into the tension, excitement, and heartache he endured during the most significant naval battle of World War II, perhaps unmatched since the defeat of the Spanish Armada. It's a must-read, firmly cemented on my list of books to "Read through History."
Kleiss's narrative commences with his formative years in Coffeyville, painting a vivid picture of his childhood during the early days of aviation pioneers. His passion for flight takes root in this era, sparked by his initial exposure to aviation through the guard unit and ultimately leading him to the hallowed halls of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. He provides a candid glimpse into life as a junior officer on the USS Vincennes, dispelling any glamorous notions of shipboard life.
The journey to becoming a Navy Aviator is no easy feat, and Kleiss takes us through the rigorous training required before he finally earns his wings. Amidst this narrative, his enduring love story with Jean, his beloved wife, unfolds. Her influence is evident in the detailed letters and notes he maintained and eventually shared, a testament to the support that fueled his compelling account.
The pages come alive as Kleiss shares his time at sea leading up to the Battle of Midway, recounting significant events such as the Marshall Islands operation in February 1942 and the engagements at Wake and Marcus Islands in February and March 1942. He offers valuable insights into the behavior of his aircraft and the challenges posed by the unreliable Mark 13 weaponry, enriching the chapter on Midway with further depth and intrigue.
The book's zenith arrives with an in-depth exploration of the three pivotal days of June 4-6, 1942, at the Battle of Midway, spanning three engrossing chapters. Kleiss transports us into life aboard the USS Enterprise, one of America's formidable aircraft carriers under Admiral Halsey's command. His description of daring bombing runs on the Japanese carriers Kaga, Hiryu, and Mikuma are so vividly articulated that readers can practically feel the adrenaline rush he experienced during his perilous dives. The unwavering courage exhibited in the face of exploding anti-aircraft fire and the menacing presence of A6M2 Zeros in the skies reveals why Kleiss retired as a decorated hero, adorned with the Navy Cross and Distinguished Flying Cross.
Following the harrowing battle, Kleiss takes us back to the United States, offering valuable insights into his role as a Flight Instructor. Even after the war's end, Kleiss's career in aviation continues to evolve, mirroring the swift transition from propeller-driven aircraft to the dawn of jet propulsion. The later chapters of the book provide a swift but comprehensive overview of this phase in his life, culminating in his decision to chronicle his experiences in this memoir.
The narrative takes a poignant turn as we learn of Jack's passing in 2016, just months before the book's publication, as reported by CNN. However, his well-crafted account ensures that his impact on history extends beyond those three momentous days in June 1942. Kleiss's legacy endures, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of history.
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