Raymond Fordyce
Contact Information
(770) 595-4400
Bio
Ray honors his father, who was a Captain in a World War II 8th Air Force B-17 bomber group. Ray went to West Point, is a pilot and eventually retired from a management career with IBM and later Siemens registering 3 US patents. Now an 8th Air Force historian, Ray is the author of numerous published articles and essays about the World War II air war in Europe and speaks around the country on aviation-related topics. Ray also was a historical/technical advisor to the Steven Spielberg/Tom Hanks TV series, "Masters of the Air".
Presentation: "Target: The Third Reich"
Describes the experiences and sacrifices of wartime aviators of The Greatest Generation, centers on what missions entailed and the challenges faced by the men who flew them. Comprehensive overview, most popular presentation, ideal for first exposure to topic area.
Presentation: "Tech, Tactics & Trickery"
The evolution and changing fortunes in the World War II air war in Europe are discussed.
Presentation: "…and the Devil shall get no rest"
Explores the World War II bombing strategies of both the 8th Air Force and their Royal Air Force allies, including comparison of the various bombers involved.
Presentation: "Defending the Offense"
Explores the challenges faced by Allied bombers as the bomber offense targeted Germany. The measures employed to enable the bombers to “get through” to their targets, and return, are discussed.
Presentation: "The Air Defense of The Reich"
By late summer 1943 Germany was devoting 40% of its economy to stopping the bomber offensive by the Allies. The evolving defensive strategies and resources the Germans employed are discussed.
Presentation: "Rosie’s Hammer"
Centers on the bomber forces the United States brought to bear during World War II. The aircraft used in each of the theaters of operations are profiled.
Presentation: "FlyLadies"
This presentation discusses often little-known or recognized actions and contributions by women in aviation.
Presentation: "A Memorial Day Tribute"
This presentation honors those American patriots who have died in service to their country.
Presentation: "A Veterans Day Tribute"
This presentation honors all those who have served in the US armed forces.
Custom Presentations
Presentations can be created for specific groups or events.
Run time
Most presentations run from 40-60+ minutes, depending upon the requirements of the venue. All presentations include many unique visuals and each is refreshed for every event, so the “same” talk rarely is exactly the same.
Technical Requirements
Projector, screen, backup PC, microphone if for a large group.
Locations and Travel
Available to speak at domestic US locations.