Japanese Quote by Laura Hillenbrand
““In World War II, 35,933 AAF planes were lost in combat and accidents. The surprise of the attrition rate is that only a fraction of the ill-fated planes were lost in combat. In 1943 in the Pacific Ocean Areas theater in which Phil’s crew served, for every plane lost in combat, some six planes were lost in accidents. Over time, combat took a greater toll, but combat losses never overtook noncombat losses.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Greatest Generation by Laura Hillenbrand, 2014
Aircraft attrition in WWII was dominated by non‑combat accidents, with combat losses only later surpassing them.
In simple terms: Most plane losses were accidents, not combat.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden risks beyond obvious threats.
Themes
risk
history
military
aviation
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
historical
informative
When to use this quote
- WWII air campaigns
- pilot training
- maintenance safety
- logistics planning
Key Concepts
attrition
noncombat loss
combat dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How did non‑combat risks shape wartime strategy?
- What safety measures could reduce accident rates?
A Different Perspective
Combat losses eventually exceeded accidents, showing shifting danger sources.
