From the Prairie to the Pacific

A Blue Angel's Story

By: Gil Rud

Narrated by: Capt. USN (Ret.) Gil Rud

From the Prairie to the Pacific is the story of one man's journey from rural North Dakota to the cockpits of U.S. Navy jet fighters and ultimately Captain of a flagship aircraft carrier. Gil Rud flew combat missions over Vietnam in A-7 Corsair II aircraft before taking command of his own squadron. His success as a Naval aviator led to the ultimate reward—"Boss" of the world-famous Blue Angels aerobatic display team, overseeing their successful transition to the F/A-18 Hornet. Gil Rud reflects on his experiences and emotions as a husband and father, as well as a pilot, and an "officer and a gentleman". His stories of triumph and tragedy, from nights on the flight deck to nights on the town and the loss of close friends, reveal deep feelings, great insight, and a wonderful sense of humor, as well as meticulous attention to detail.

©2022 Gil Rud (P)2022 Gil Rud

Excellent!

I’d been looking for my next audiobook-it’s getting harder to find aviation related titles I haven’t read/listened to! I came across the author being interviewed on a podcast, and he was so interesting that when I heard he’d written a book, I knew I had to listen-especially since he was reading it himself! I wasn’t disappointed.

This book is amazing

I saw Gil Rud at the San Diego USS Midway and he is a amazing guy

Captain Rud

My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Captain Rud and touring the aircraft carrier Constellation in San Diego. Our son and Ryan Rud, a charming young man,were college room mates at the time. It was a pleasure reading about the amazing life and service of Captain Rud. From the Prarie to the Pacific is an informative oral history.

Great Naval aviation book

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was actually there when he flew over the Statue of Liberty for the anniversary.

Authentic autobiography by Key Blue Angels Leader

An honest, insightful and enjoyable account of a North Dakota farm boy who through timing, luck, skill, and common sense intelligence had a consequential Naval Career, including Leader of the World Famous Flight Demonstration Team, The Blue Angels. I recommend this book to anyone with an interest in aviation, the Navy/Military and flight demonstration teams. You will gain a rare, honest insight into how things really work and how things really get done. Bravo Zulu Captain Rud!!!