About this episode

This episode explores the life and culture of the 10th Tactical Fighter Squadron during the Cold War and Operation Desert Storm through the eyes of former officer Michael Makatura.

Step behind the wire of one of NATO’s most elite tactical fighter squadrons—the 10th Tactical Fighter Squadron—during the tense final years of the Cold War and into Operation Desert Storm. Former US Air Force officer Michael Makatura’s new book, The Fightin’ Tenth, takes you inside the hardened aircraft shelters of Hahn Air Base and witness life on the front lines of the Cold War. From the heart of West Germany to the skies above Iraq, this gripping episode captures what it means to stand ready for war at a moment’s notice, fly the iconic F-16 Viper, and live among warriors with a shared sense of purpose and brotherhood. Makatura’s story is filled with grit, fighter-pilot mockery, and raw honesty. Whether it’s enduring the mental gauntlet of Officer Training School, landing in Europe as a wide-eyed second lieutenant, or watching seasoned pilots prep for combat in the Middle East, The Fightin’ Tenth brings to life the unique culture, mission, and mindset of an American fighter squadron in an unforgettable era. Buy the book and support the podcast https://amzn.to/4wnzzab Curated episode extras⁠ ⁠⁠https://coldwarconversations.com/episode463 Help me preserve Cold War history via a…

People in this episode

Host: Ian Sanders

Guest: Michael Makatura

Topics covered

• Cold War
• military history
• fighter squadrons
• US Air Force
• Operation Desert Storm
• fighter pilots

Keywords

• Cold War
• fighter squadron
• F-16 Viper
• military culture
• Operation Desert Storm
• Michael Makatura
• Hahn Air Base
• US Air Force

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: US Air Force

Books & works: The Fightin’ Tenth

Places: Hahn Air Base, West Germany, Iraq

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