A Detroit-area author and military veteran has written a new book about two pioneering aviators who are the namesakes of Michigan air bases.

Lt. Thomas Selfridge and Capt. Phelps Collins are the subjects of Dan Heaton's book.

Heaton is a public affairs specialist for the Michigan Air National Guard and is based at the Selfridge base in Macomb County.

His book is called "Selfridge & Collins: The Life & Times of Military Aviation Pioneers Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge and Capt. Phelps Collins."

The Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center formerly was named after Collins.

Heaton says both men are early aviation heroes whose lives are well worth recounting.

Heaton's debut book, "Forgotten Aviator: The Byron Q. Jones Story," came out last year and tells the story of Selfridge Field's first commander.