Summary
"A Higher Call: An Incredible True Story of Combat and Chivalry in the War-Torn Skies of World War II" tells the remarkable and moving account of an unlikely encounter between two enemies during the deadliest conflict in human history. In December 1943, Charlie Brown, an American B-17 pilot, and his crew found themselves in a dire situation after a bombing run over Germany. Their aircraft, riddled with flak and riddled with damage, struggled to stay airborne.
As Brown's crippled bomber limped across the skies, a German fighter pilot, Franz Stigler, intercepted them. Stigler, an experienced and decorated ace, had every reason to shoot down the vulnerable B-17. However, as he assessed the damage and saw the wounded crew, something shifted within him. Moved by a sense of compassion and a shared humanity, Stigler made a fateful decision: instead of attacking, he escorted the American bomber through dangerous enemy airspace, guiding them toward the safety of the English Channel.
The story then follows Stigler's own life and experiences with his brother, parents, and also his military career. This meant that his life was put in danger as well.
For decades, both men kept their encounter a secret, haunted by the fear of retribution. But as time passed, the desire to understand and connect grew stronger. Years later, Brown sought out Stigler, leading to an emotional reunion and a lifelong friendship that transcended their past as enemies. This true story emphasizes the profound impact of human connection, even in the midst of war's brutality. It challenges the idea of a clear cut enemy, and instead highlights the potential for respect, empathy, and even love between those on opposing sides.
"A Higher Call" delves into the lives of both men before, during, and after the war, exploring their backgrounds, motivations, and the moral dilemmas they faced. The story is a testament to the power of individual choice and the enduring bonds that can unite us, even in the face of unimaginable conflict. Ultimately, the book asks readers to consider if goodness can be found on both sides of a war.