All posts by Acceleration

Dr. Forrest L. Marion, Oral Historian, USAF Historical Research Agency; Author: That Others May Live, USAF Air Rescue in Korea

…includes a ‘gold mine’ of documentary and photographic evidence at the family level. I believe the story will resonate with many readers…”
Dr. Forrest Marion

“This story is a tragic, but wonderful, example of how war may affect the loved ones of those who are lost. It includes a ‘gold mine’ of documentary and photographic evidence at the family level. I believe the story will resonate with many readers, especially the families of those U.S. Servicemen lost in military operations since 2001. In ‘Baited Trap,’ deaths in combat, perceived or actual bureaucratic insensitivities, and human failings combine with the sometimes sorrowful and failed–and sometimes encouraging and successful–efforts of loved ones to cope with their respective losses. There are undoubtedly many American families today who would draw a measure of strength and courage from a poignant reminder that they are not the first to experience a war for whom there may never be final closure in this life.”

Col. Baylor Haynes, USAF (Ret); Founding President, The Jolly Greens and the Air Rescue Association

“There should have been some Silver Stars and a Medal of Honor award for those that participated in Mission 1890…”

Col. Baylor Haynes, USAF-Ret

“When we were in combat we lived in a different world. We approached life differently. The other guy may get killed, but not us. If you do get killed then it’s all over for you. But, it’s only the beginning for our loved ones we left behind. At home our loved ones wait, afraid to look out the window for fear of seeing a car stop in front and military personnel get out. It it is over for us, it is just beginning for them and they will be affected all of their lives by the loss. Every birthday, anniversary and holiday they will feel the effects. I think your approach will be welcomed by the families of those you profiled in Baited Trap. In many respects, they are still going through the waiting-to-know and through the loss. Those who never went through it will get new insights into what pain and anguish it brings. There should have been some Silver Stars and a Medal of Honor award for those that participated in Mission 1890–and Bob Holloway should have been rescued. He would have been in 1965-66. Good story!”

Lt. Col. John W. Caldwell, USAF (Ret); Author: Bless ‘Em All

“…a long overdue tribute to the Air Rescue Service and particularly for these airmen whose bravery, airmanship and dedication to life saving duty is unsurpassed in military history.”
Lt. Col. John Caldwell, USAF-Ret

Captain Tracy Connors has presented a remarkably accurate picture of the courage and dedication of those pilots and airmen who risked and sometimes gave their lives that others may live during the Korean War. At the same time he has also identified and described some of the shortcomings of Air Force leaders and the chain of command at that time who lacked adequate knowledge of rotary wing capabilities and potential–a relatively new branch of aviation. Those of us fortunate enough to have participated in the combat rescue of downed airmen live for the rest of our lives with a sense of gratitude that we were graced with that very rare opportunity.

The loss of any American warrior in the service of his or her country is a tragedy to all of us and most painfully to their loved ones. The author has captured both the pride and the distressing sorrow felt by families when they realize their warriors will not be returning home to the hero’s welcome they so richly deserve. Baited Trap is a long overdue tribute to the Air Rescue Service and particularly for these airmen whose bravery, airmanship and dedication to life saving duty is unsurpassed in military history.

Judy, Virginia

“Della…I just had to let you that I am enthralled by the book…I’m nearly finished chapter 6 and it is fascinating…I will let you know more as I get farther in the book…Thank you so-o-o-o much for sending it…is in indeed a part of history that should be told!”

M.S., San Rafael, CA

[A recent letter to Bob and Della Holloway]

“Dear Bob and Della, I finally finished [Baited Trap, the Ambush of Mission 1890]. Probably one of the hardest reads I have ever done since I know you both personally. Many nights I had to put the book down because I couldn’t see through my tears. Della, you are a very courageous and gutsy woman!!!!!! I admire you for all you did. I don’t know how you kept your sanity all those years, but Faith is a great thing.”

“And Bob, as I was reading with complete awe, I would “TRY” and read certain things to [my husband], but my emotions got the better of me and told him to read it himself. Who knew? You look at people you have known for years, and yet there is always a story that you don’t know about. The way [Baited Trap was written], I felt I was with you on this horrible journey all the way. I had such a heavy heart reading this book, but then thought about the outcome and what two wonderful people you are. You are both heroes in your own way.”

“Bob, I have always told you no one says the Pledge of Allegiance like you. Now I know why. I cry at the National Anthem (I’m Italian, what can I say!) I’m sure the next time the Pledge comes up I will let the tears flow. I am so very happy that I was able to read this book. Your children and grandchildren must be just so proud of the two of you. I know I am. Love, M.

P.S The next time I see a ham and cheese sandwich I know exactly what I will be visualizing!!!!!! “

DLH, Marin County, CA

“Last night we received a phone call from a friend, who is a school teacher, telling us that it is the very best history book he has ever read and it will definitely be part of his library for future use. This morning we received a phone call from a friend in Colorado who has one of the books and just can’t put it down. It arrived at his home yesterday and he stayed up last night to continue reading it. Don’t know what comments you are receiving from the general public, but our friends are definitely intrigued by the book.”