Barrett Tillman was born into a NE Oregon ranching family and developed an early interest in aviation. He learned to fly as a teenager and has logged several hundred hours in historic aircraft. He was first published at age 15, and graduated from the University of Oregon with a journalism degree in 1971. He has worked as a newspaper reporter, book publisher, and magazine editor, but has been self employed all but seven years since graduating from college. Though best known for his histories of US naval aviation, he also has published ten novels and short stories, and has sold a screenplay.
Tillman continues writing nonfiction books and has written more than 800 articles in the US and abroad. He frequently appears as a commentator on TV documentaries in addition to his speaking appearances. The recipient of eight writing awards, he lives with his wife in Arizona
Tillman's web site and blog are found at www.btillman.com.