About the Author

Michael Makatura served as the Executive Officer of the 10th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Hahn Air Base, Germany. Born into a working-class family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he never imagined he would one day be part of a fighter squadron that would help shape the final days of the Cold War and later participate in Operation Desert Storm. He wrote this book to honor the men and women of the “Fightin’ Tenth” whose patriotism, professionalism, and courage defined one of the most meaningful periods of his life.

“Mak” graduated from Pitt Johnstown in 1987. He is married to his wife, Rhonda; together they have five children and make their home in Winter Garden, Florida.