Roscoe Turner: Aviation's Master Showman

Of all the barnstorming pilots of the 1920s, Turner (1895-1970) was the most successful in whipping up enthusiasm for the new phenomenon of manned flight. Early on he adopted as his trademark attire a sky-blue tunic, fawn-colored jodhpurs and riding boots; in addition he wore an outsize waxed mustache and traveled about with his pet lion, Gilmore, whom he had raised from a cub. But he was flamboyant for a purpose: he was a supersalesman who peddled flying not only by barnstorming, mostly through the South in the 1920s, but also by winning national and international races in the 1930s, helping to train pilots during WWII, writing a book, editing a magazine, appearing on radio programs and playing a minor role in a movie. A bad money manager, he perpetually sought corporate sponsorship, and the combination of his piloting skills and his outgoing personality got him that support. This scrupulously researched work by retired Air Force colonel Glines resurrects an aerial showman who takes his rightful place in the pantheon of 20th-century daredevils. Photos not seen by PW. (May)