A Missed Gem: Sonoma's Historical Connection to "Masters of the Air"

NOTE: The following Letter to the Editor at the Sonoma Index-Tribune was sent on Friday, February 2, 2024. If you happen to feel the same way, please submit your own Letter to the Editor and email it to: editor@sonomanews.com

A Letter to the Editor of the Sonoma Index-Tribune,

Having read your article on Friday, February 2, 2024, covering the new television streaming series "Masters of the Air" which began airing on Apple TV+ on Friday, January 26th, I felt a surge of eagerness to draw attention to an unexplored facet of our community's rich history that was regrettably overlooked in your piece.

Peter Larsen's insightful contribution in the Orange County Register, subsequently echoed in the Sonoma Index-Tribune, delved into the collaboration between Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks for this noteworthy series which serves as the third part of their Second World War trilogy to include “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific.” However, my amazement peaked when I noticed a glaring omission – a historical gem that links Sonoma Valley intimately with the 8th Air Force, the focal point of this gripping streaming saga.

The 8th Air Force played a crucial role in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, with General Hap Arnold, a towering figure in military history and a resident of Sonoma Valley, serving as the commanding general of the entire United States Army Air Forces. Undoubtedly, General Arnold's profound influence and leadership were ingrained in the fabric of the 8th Air Force, shaping strategic operations and extending beyond. The creation of the 8th Air Force, as detailed in Donald L. Miller's book "Masters of the Air" (which the streaming series is based on) stemmed from General Arnold's initiative soon after Germany declared war on the United States. He appointed General Carl Spaatz to lead it and General Ira Eaker to command its bombardment force. A notable distinction for General Arnold is that he is the sole United States Air Force general to achieve five-star rank in two different U.S. military services. The enduring legacy of General Arnold is vividly reflected in our landscape through landmarks such as Arnold Drive, Arnold Field, and a dedicated roundabout in front of Hanna Boys Center, marked by three signs underscoring his historical significance.

While it is understandable that an article originating from the Orange County Register might not spotlight this local connection, the omission by our own editorial team raises questions about the editorial lens we apply to our community narratives. In times past, under the stewardship of Bill Lynch, our local newspaper excelled in bringing to light unique and locally relevant aspects, a trait sorely missed in this instance.

The oversight calls for attention from the current custodians of the Sonoma Index-Tribune. A publication with such a storied history should be at the forefront of recognizing and celebrating the ties that bind us to significant events and figures, both past and present.

In closing, the absence of a seasoned editorial perspective akin to Bill Lynch's leaves a void during moments like these, where a unique narrative could have elevated our local coverage. My sincere hope is that these words resonate, sparking a reevaluation of editorial choices and a renewed commitment to capturing the exceptional stories that render Sonoma truly special.

Sincerely,

Bob Leonard

Former Captain, U.S. Marine Corps