Flight from Nome

Frank Richardson Pierce (1887-1966) wrote over 1,500 stories for pulps and glossy magazines in his 50-year career. While using his own name, and that of Erle Stanly Pierce and Seth Ranger, Pierce worked as a photojournalist for Motorcycling and Bicycling Illustrated while traveling remote Alaskan villages in the early 20th century. His experience in the area had an impact on his writing, both as an adventure and western storyteller. I discovered an aviation story from the author, “Flight from Nome”, in the August 1947 issue of Adventure, featuring the frosty Alaskan climate.

The story provides a brief history lesson on the early-day travel in Alaska, both by ship and plane, while introducing the two main characters, Danny and Joe. They work for the fictional Alaska-Asiatic Airlines. Joe is the instrument pilot, a war veteran who is forced to co-pilot with a busher named Dan. Years ago, the duo formed a solid friendship and work partnership, a melding that led to Joe dating Danny's sister. But the years have taken their toll on the friendship and work environment, leading to Joe's animosity for Dan and his disgruntlement with being a co-pilot.

Danny is dating a woman named Maureen, but lately Joe has been flirting with her. Danny is upset with Joe, not only with his advancement on Maureen, but also with his dismissal of Joe's sister and their relationship. This tight tension has spread to the cockpit, leading to some uncomfortable chatter between the two. But the ultimate test of their loyalty to the profession is at hand. The two are flying a plane full of passengers, through the frigid night, to three destinations. It's an icy adventure that pushes the boundaries of their friendship, work ethic, and dedication to their trade. 

This story, really a novella, is a character study, not only of the two main stars but also of the passengers themselves. Each of them shares their life and lessons, living in such a barren place. My favorite is Old Man Kent, a former gold prospector who is suffering the early stages of Alzheimer's. He consistently talks for hours about his life, knowing friends like Jack London, Rex Beach, Soapy Smith, and Swiftwater Bill. Whether he actually met and had relationships with these legendary men is a mystery. The Kent character is like the living embodiment of a good pulp story, which I think was the point. There's also a Priest, a pregnant woman, and a nurse, among others, to share their experiences. Pierce also builds in some riveting flashback scenes of Joe earning his nickname “Lucky” in harrowing missions throughout the war. 

I haven't read much of Frank Richardson Pierce, but that all changes now that I've read this great aviation story. “Flight from Nome” is a fantastic literary telling of a majestic time and place in American history. Highly recommended.

Read or download the story HERE or read it below: