Jagdstaffel 17, better known as Jasta 17, was one of the premier German fighter squadrons of World War I. It began as Kampfstaffel Metz, and later became known as Jasta 17. Although not as famous some of the other units, it nevertheless produced its share of aces, and three of its members were knights of the Orden Pour le Merite, holders of the coveted Blue Max. Julius Buckler, with 35 confirmed victories, was the highest scoring ace of Kampfstaffel Metz. Other standouts included Oblt Bruno Loerzer, Hermann Goring, Jacob Wolff (who was 48 years old when he scored his last victory, and was also Jewish), Vzfw Christian Donhauser, and a number of others who either transferred in and out of the unit, or served briefly until becoming casualties.

Although this book is a history or the unit, it reads like a novel and tells the story very well, illustrating the writing skills of the author. When I started it, I had difficulty putting it down, and in keeping with my practice of never going anywhere without something interesting to read, I carried the book around for quite a while until it was finished.

Not only was the story well done, but also the information on the aircraft was outstanding. The color profiles, mainly of Albatros D.II and D.V biplanes, also included several Fokker D.VIIs, one Fokker E. III, and a solitary Pfalz D. XII. Both profile and plan views are provided, so this book will be extremely useful for modelers of World War I aircraft.

One thing about World War I fighter operations was that the airplanes were similar in performance to our modern lightplanes, Cessnas, Pipers, Luscombes, Taylorcrafts, and the like). Flying these types allows you to go back in time and realize how demanding aerial warfare was during this time period. As hard as other airplanes are to see in the air today, even with the tower calling out their locations, a pilot then would have to have had extraordinary eyesight to be able to see well-camouflaged enemy aircraft in the air and maneuver in order to attack them without being seen. It’s a wonder than anyone was able to score victories at all if the enemy pilots and aircrews were observant.

I was very impressed with this book, as I have been with all Osprey issues, as they occupy over 24 inches of my bookshelf. They are very useful in modeling, and interesting to read and reread.

Highly recommended for anyone interested in World War I aviation.

Thanks to IPMS and Osprey Publishing for the chance to review this book.