Flying the SR-71 Blackbird Audiobook By Richard H. Graham cover art

Flying the SR-71 Blackbird

In the Cockpit on a Secret Operational Mission

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Flying the SR-71 Blackbird

By: Richard H. Graham
Narrated by: Shawn Compton
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For anyone who has ever wondered what it's like to fly the SR-71 on a secret Mach 3 reconnaissance mission, this book has the answer. Completely redesigned and updated with photos from author Colonel Richard H. Graham's personal archive, as well as a new introduction, Flying the SR-71 Blackbird details what an SR-71 mission entailed, from planning to donning a pressure suit to returning to base.

The Lockheed SR-71, unofficially known as the Blackbird, was an advanced, long-range, Mach 3 strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed by Lockheed Skunk Works. The aircraft flew so fast and high that not one was ever shot down, even by a missile. SR-71 pilot and instructor Colonel Richard Graham offers a rare cockpit perspective on how regular Air Force pilots and navigators transformed themselves into SR-71 Blackbird crews, turning their unique aviation talents to account in an unprecedented way.

Arguably the world's foremost expert on piloting the Blackbird, Graham takes listeners along on an operational mission that only a few Air Force pilots have ever experienced.

©2008, 2010, 2019 Richard H. Graham (P)2021 Tantor Air Forces Armed Forces Military Military & War Aviation
Fascinating Anecdotes • Technical Details • Engaging Narration • Historical Significance • Aviation Expertise
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What an honor to have this on audiobook thank you to everybody. A close friend was an F117 crew chief and we have always wanted to read this book and it’s always been out of reach until now. Read this along side of skunk Works documentary.

What an honor

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Great perspective of flying the Blackbird! Thank you for sharing your amazing experiences. I agree it was a mistake to shut down the program.

Blackbird

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The SR-71 was a genius machine. Nothing has ever been designed so perfect for it's mission. Everyone involved with this program is a hero.

A one of a kind aircraft that should be flying

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this book is hands down incredibly interesting to those that enjoy history, details, espionage, and the SR-71 Blackbird. this book does give an incredibly detailed view from the pilot and Cruz point of view that encompasses much more than just the cockpit. what made this book five stars for me Isn't it could have been an incredibly tedious and monotonous task going through what each gauge lever switch and button does but both the author and the narrator do and wizard job throwing in anecdotes or stories behind many of the switches Etc very interesting

History, aircraft, and espionage buffs READ THIS!

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This is an amazing story of an irreplaceable aircraft. going through the checklists with the writer put the readers mind in the cockpit of the HABU. it is written in such a manner that you feel like you are flying and living the memories.

Well written and informative

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The author presents a detailed view of SR71 operations by highly qualified pilots and companion flying officers. The aircraft was designed and fabricated by genius engineers and technicians. Eventually retired under questionable circumstances. No other jet engined aircraft comes close to matching the record setting performance of the blackbird! Records include 85,000 feet altitude operations, 2,100 mph speeds, 64 minutes flying time Los Angeles to Washington DC. Simply amazing!

The SR71 Blackbird - No equal!

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I was on the team that initiated the KC135 Q refueling operations at RAF
Mildenhall and this was a wonderfully written book about the Blackbird and it’s refueling support. Thank you Richard Graham. I have purchased this book in hardcover and it will have a special place in my personal library along with all the memories you ignited once more!

Greatest aircraft ever

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It is a detailed and very technical description of the aircraft and its missions, coupled with stories of the writer.

Great book for all avid SR-71 fans and pilots in general!

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As a professional pilot, hearing the checklists was absolutely amazing. It takes the mystery of this beast and brings it to a relatable understanding, highly recommend!!!

What a ride!

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Very technical and a bit dry but interesting. Would like to have had more mission details and stories.

Good story about an icon

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