Waverly Author Receives 
USAF Academy Recognition
Ray Ward's Book
"Those Brave Crews"
is Cadet Text Book

Ray Ward of Waverly was accorded special recognition by the United States Air Force Academy's Association of Graduates. Ward, an Air Force historian, author, and World War II veteran, was informed by Lt. Col. Richard M. Coppick, President of the graduate body, that he had been entered on the rolls of the Association of Graduates as an Associate Life Member.

Ward's book Those Brave Crews is used by the Air Force Academy as a cadet text book. As stated in a letter to Ray, "Your book will serve many current and future cadets at the Academy." The book - which took Ward four years to write - describes the valor of the young men who flew during the first year of World War II in Europe and North Africa and details the Ploesti Mission. The Air Force Academy considers Those Brave Crews to be "a definitive work on the history of aerial bombardment."

Colonel Carl W. Reddel, Professor and Head of the Department of Military History, stated to Mr. Ward, "It is a unique and wonderful book, which we are proud to add to our collection. At the end of each year, we recognize outstanding cadets in military, American, and world history and in interdisciplinary studies. Part of their award includes a collection of significant historical works to add to their personal libraries and to further their individual studies. Your book will be a welcome addition to these awards and will serve the new lieutenants in a special, personal way."

Ray Ward is glad that the Air Force Academy is taking leadership in the teaching of American and world history. "The Academy ;is more than remembering those brave men who died for our country. It is instilling in American youth an understanding of history, thus deepening the character of those to play an important part in our nation's future."