From Burma to Berlin: The Development of U.S. Air Transport 1938-1949

Authors

Benjamin J. Johnson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

12-2014

Comments

A THESIS Presented to the Faculty of The Graduate College at the University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For the Degree of Master of Arts, Major: History, Under the Supervision of Professor Lloyd E. Ambrosius. Lincoln, Nebraska: December, 2014

Copyright (c) 2014 Benjamin J. Johnson

Abstract

This work examines the development of U.S. military airlift from unproven curiosity to a transformative system of technologies, tactics and logistical support which enabled the United States to engage diplomatic and military scenarios around the world. Through an examination of contemporary reports, technological advances and statistical analyses of airlift practices it is shown that the period of 1938-1949 witnessed a great leap in tactical and technological innovation within the U.S. air transport community. The capabilities utilized during air supply missions to China during World War II and the Berlin Airlift foreshadowed a transformative capability providing military and diplomatic solutions when none previously existed.

Advisor: Lloyd E. Ambrosius