Retired Lt. Col. Dan Hampton joins us on today’s podcast to talk about his new book, The Hunter Killers: The Extraordinary Story of the First Wild Weasels, the Band of Maverick Aviators Who Flew the Most Dangerous Missions of the Vietnam War (William Morrow, June 2015). Wild Weasels are known for their deadly air missions, and Hampton was one himself. That status gave him unparallelled access when he interviewed the first generation, who were instrumental in the Vietnam War. Later in the hour, we talk to contributing editor Erin Blakemore about the invention of Betty Crocker.

Music this hour:

• “Dory Honey” by Jahzzar, from the album Message
• “Soldiertype (militarised)” by Ketsa, from the album What’s Without’s Within