Victory Through Airpower

“John Olsen delivers once again; this time a sharp, well-researched book of how Chuck Horner became Schwarzkopf’s ‘Whisperer.’ Olsen seamlessly weaves biography and military history, offering critical insights into modern airpower, joint operations and high command. A vital read for anyone serious about air warfare and operational decision-making.” — Gen. Michael J. Dugan, USAF (Ret.), 13th Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force

“The fast-moving inside look at a turning point in military history—the first defeat by airpower of a field army—and at the central role played by the air commander, General Chuck Horner. A fascinating, eye-opening account and—to use one of Horner’s favorite phrases—deadly accurate.” — Gen. Merrill A. McPeak, USAF (Ret.), 14th Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force 

“Victory Through Airpower is meticulously researched and superbly written. John Olsen captures Horner’s leadership, and impact in joint and combined air operations in Desert Storm. This book is essential reading for young airmen, guardians and senior leaders seeking insight into command in modern, coalition-driven warfare.” — Gen. Ronald R. Fogleman, USAF (Ret.), 15th Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force

“General Chuck Horner is easily numbered among our nation’s greatest warriors and airmen. John Olsen's brilliant narrative unveils the very soul of Horner's genius—quiet competence and an abiding selflessness that invites trust, fierce loyalty, and confidence that his judgement aligns with the highest virtues of duty and honor.” — Gen. John P. Jumper, USAF (Ret.), 17th Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force

“This book is pure gold. It captures the essence of Chuck Horner, the complex and multifaceted man who led the highly successful Desert Storm air campaign; provides an excellent analysis of the planning and execution of the air campaign itself; and offers unique insights into wartime generalship. John Olsen’s book is superbly researched and well-written with shrewd observations about personalities and relationships. I highly recommend this book to all military officers who would like to better understand modern warfare and the art of high command.” — Gen. T. Michael Moseley, USAF (Ret.), 18th Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force

“Victory Through Airpower: General Chuck Horner and Operation Desert Storm offers unmatched insight into planning and executing a successful air campaign, while revealing the character, skill, and courage of the man who led Coalition airpower in the First Gulf War. All leaders will benefit from the lessons contained in this book.” — Gen. Richard B. Myers, USAF (Ret.), 15th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Air Force

"Chuck Horner led the air campaign of Desert Storm that redefined warfare and asserted the essential role of airpower. John Olsen tells that story vividly, with clarity and strategic insight. To anyone interested in military affairs: read it, study it, apply its lessons." — Donald B. Rice, Secretary of the Air Force, 1989-1993

“Colonel John Olsen is one of the top air historians around, and he burnishes his reputation with this brilliant biography of the most important and successful air commander since World War II. General Chuck Horner was largely responsible for devising and then implementing the air campaign plan that destroyed the massive army of Saddam Hussein in the First Gulf War of 1991. Olsen is expert in bringing this vitally important story to light: Horner’s air campaign revolutionized warfare. This book is a must read.” — Col. Phillip S. Meilinger, USAF (Ret.), MA, PhD

“I wholeheartedly recommend this book. As one whose command in 1991 benefited directly from the air campaign designed by Lt Gen Horner I strongly endorse this account of its effectiveness. My comrades and I had great confidence in the campaign, a confidence that increased with every day of its execution. I have learnt a great deal from this excellent book: of Horner the man, the forming and execution of the campaign itself, the handling of allies, and the enduring significance of the characters and relationships among those in command.” — General Sir Rupert Smith KCB DSO OBE QGM

“This is an outstanding account of General Chuck Horner’s leadership during Operation Desert Storm. Having had the privilege of serving alongside General Horner from the earliest planning stages through to the campaign’s successful conclusion, I can attest that Olsen captures both the man and the moment with remarkable clarity and insight. This authoritative and comprehensive study of an extraordinary wartime leader is essential reading for military professionals and earns my strongest endorsement.” — Air Chief Marshal Sir William Wratten GBE CB AFC