Monty’s Flying Fortress Takes Flight at Elaine’s Literary Salon

Alexandria, VA – A little-known story of World War II aviation is landing in Old Town Alexandria.

On Wednesday, Oct. 7, military historian and defense journalist Zita Ballinger Fletcher will appear at Elaine’s Literary Salon. The evening begins at 6 p.m. at Elaine’s, 208 Queen Street.

Fletcher will discuss “Monty’s Flying Fortress,” her account of British Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery and the American airmen who flew him through wartime skies.

The event will include dinner, an interview, an audience Q&A.

An American B-17 for a British Commander

Millions know Montgomery, better known as “Monty,” as the victor of El Alamein and one of Britain’s best-known wartime commanders.

Far fewer know about the American B-17 Flying Fortress that became his personal wartime aircraft.

That unusual arrangement is at the center of Fletcher’s book.

Montgomery secured the heavy bomber to help him travel through dangerous wartime airspace. However, the aircraft came with something equally important: an American crew.

The young U.S. airmen assigned to protect Montgomery came from backgrounds far removed from his own. Many had never left the United States before the war.

Nevertheless, the British commander and his American crew developed a strong bond. Their relationship grew into a story of trust, courage and Allied cooperation.

American Airmen Take Center Stage

For Fletcher, the story also offers an opportunity to bring overlooked American servicemen back into the historical record.

“The B-17 was a remarkable aircraft flown by courageous crews during World War II,” Fletcher said. “Not many people know that U.S. aviators flew and protected a British commander.”

She also believes Montgomery’s story continues to offer lessons.

“Montgomery played a critical role in shaping World War II operations, and learning about his life and leadership can deepen our appreciation of history and teach us lessons for today,” Fletcher said.

At the same time, Fletcher wants readers to remember the Americans who flew with him.

“It’s also important to remember the U.S. airmen who were at his side during the war’s most challenging moments,” she said.

“I hope my book reminds people of the Allied spirit that brought nations together during World War II and is badly needed today, and recognizes the achievements of U.S. airmen whose stories got left behind in history.”

Fletcher Brings Military History to Life

Fletcher comes to Alexandria with extensive experience as a military historian, journalist and author.

She graduated from the University of South Florida Honors College. She later earned a master’s degree in military history with distinction from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.

Fletcher also made publishing history as the first female editor to manage both Military History Quarterly (MHQ) and Vietnam magazines.

She has written more than 10 books and over 100 historical articles.

In addition, Fletcher previously served as the official historian of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. She covers modern security issues as a defense reporter and Forbes contributor.

Her work also extends overseas. Fletcher writes in German as a guest historian for the German War Graves Commission.

War Stories Over Dinner in Old Town

Elaine’s Literary Salon combines an intimate dinner with the conversation and exchange of ideas found in a traditional literary salon.

During the Oct. 7 program, Fletcher will discuss Montgomery’s personality and wartime experiences. She will also share stories drawn from B-17 flight logs and the American crew’s missions.

Together, those records reveal an unusual wartime partnership forged in dangerous skies.

Following the interview, audience members can ask Fletcher questions. She will also sign copies of her books.

Monty’s Flying Fortress and the American Airmen

For military history readers, the evening offers more than another familiar account of famous generals and battles. Instead, it turns the spotlight toward the American airmen whose role in Montgomery’s story largely faded from public memory.

More than 80 years later, their B-17 is flying back into the spotlight.

Event Details

“Monty’s Flying Fortress” with Zita Ballinger Fletcher begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at Elaine’s Literary Salon, 208 Queen Street in Old Town Alexandria.

Seating in the salon dining room is limited. Advance reservations are encouraged.

Tickets and reservations: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/author-talk-montys-flying-fortress-by-zita-ballinger-fletcher-tickets-1998447230463