An exciting look at what it takes to command a US Navy fighter squadron. This historical biography of John Monroe “Hawk” Smith, Navy fighter pilot, is a gripping account of valor, sacrifice, and adventure during one of the most tumultuous periods in carrier aviation. * Hawk, having completed a stunning tour as commanding officer of TOPGUN, received orders to a frontline F-14 Tomcat squadron—VF-213, the “Black Lions.” * Hawk joined the Black Lions prior to their March 1979 deployment.  Several critical factors portended to a most arduous workup period and deployment—there were issues lurking.  But Hawk was a man who did not shy away from a challenge. * Soon, the Lions would have opportunities to show their colors. * These included the first-ever Fighter Derby at NAS Miramar, California—the “World Cup” for naval fighter squadrons, and Constant Peg, a highly classified “Black Program” that exposed aircrews to the capabilities of Soviet fighters. Aviation enthusiasts and historians will