While volumes have been devoted to the legendary "Flying Tigers," the ultimate American Volunteer Group, another virtually unknown band of flyers preceded them in 1932. When Colombia and Peru became embroiled in what is known as the "Leticia Affair," a little-heralded arms race ensued. The Curtiss-Wright Export Corporation saw an opening and soon had not only sold the Colombians on an impressive assortment of aircraft types but also an American cadre to bridge the gap until their own crews were ready. Illustrated with rare contemporary illustrations, this book tells the fascinating story of these oft-forgotten men and the aircraft they flew.

"This work reflects an extraordinary research effort. Aviation developments between World War I and World War II, including the use of aircraft seldom seen in the United States, as well as export competition among American manufacturers are other interesting themes."

"...the information about an obscure group is interesting."

"Few have so illumined Latin American Aviation history for English-speaking readers as Dan Hagedorn has. And this terrific little tome proves it."

"The book is well researched and the types of aircraft are nicely illustrated by period photos of these planes in service."