The Flying Tigers Poker Payoff: They Saved China

During the war, soldiers shared newspapers and magazines. A coed pictured might be elected, "The Sweetheart of the 116 Infantry," or "The Girl Company B would most like to take to the movies." Election frequently resulted in letters and pinup photos. The Flying Tigers, the l4th Air Force, had Chinese speaking American, Dorothy Yuen, "in the flesh." Her dedication, courage, and devotion to duty earned Dottie-as they called her-medals and their utmost respect. Dottie shared their hopes and dreams-and their fears. Sometimes she joined their poker games. Dottie was the girl they dreamed of marrying. Alas, it was not to be. When the war ended, they married the girl back home, and sometimes talked too much about Dottie. To them, the Gentle Tigress remained a star-the real thing. When peace returned, poker became popular. Some Flying Tiger veterans attended annual reunions just to play. None of them realized poker would provide the vehicle to uncover murder.