Skip O’Neill lies dying of leukemia in a New York hospital, determined to live until the new millennium. His wasted body shows scant evidence of the man he once was—an Air Force fighter pilot and decorated combat veteran. O’Neill’s first assignment, as a young lieutenant, places him among hard drinking World War II—and Korean War—era fighter pilots who quickly teach him their ways. He almost washes out of pilot training but is persistent and manages to graduate. In Vietnam, he proves to be a skillful and courageous pilot who faces dangers of all kinds with equanimity. But the greatest—and most deadly danger—materializes years after O’Neill volunteers to be an observer at an atomic test site. In the end, O’Neill decides that when his time comes, he will dash at it fearlessly. He anticipates being greeted by departed friends—but what awaits him is something totally unexpected.

The Eagle’s Last Flight

Ron Standerfer
iUniverse (2005)
ISBN 0595360874
Reviewed by William E. Cooper for Reader Views (2/07)


As a work of fiction Colonel Standerfer has produced a book that places his readers well within the realm of reality.  It is the story of a decorated combat pilot who is dying of leukemia.  The story takes us through his training (which he nearly fails to complete) to his association with veteran World War II and Korean War fighter pilots.  These friends take him under their wing and teach him the realities of combat flying.  He is assigned to combat operations in Vietnam and proves himself and capable and heroic pilot.  Colonel Standerfer’s writing skill puts you in the cockpit with pilot Skip O’Neill as he maneuvers and engages in aerial combat.  The fact that the author himself flew 237 combat missions in Vietnam provides the background and real knowledge and skills to take the reader with him back into the fight.

Following his combat experiences O’Neill volunteers to be an observer at the testing of atomic bombs.  Without the knowledge of radiation and the proximity to the detonation, O’Neill is exposed to what will become lethal doses of radiation, over time.  He contracts leukemia and the story follows his treatments and reflections of his experiences.  As the disease progresses, O’Neill decides to accept his fate with courage and dignity.  He reflects over his life and career experiences while deciding how to meet his end.  Colonel Standerfer creates and ending for the book which is both surprising and emotional.  This review will not reveal that ending as the reader needs to experience it alone.

For anyone who reads, “The Eagle’s Last Flight” should be added to your library.  It is a well-composed and well-written story, and certainly worth your time and expense to get and read it.  I have to tell Colonel Standefer very well done sir, very well done.  Be proud of this work.