A gripping narrative of unprecedented valor and personal courage, here is the story of the first American battle of World War II: the battle for Wa...
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reviews
Jul 29, 2011
This book can claim one of the best true history books to be written. Bill Sloan did an absolute amazing job at retelling the story of the brave marines, sailors, soldiers, and civilians that defended a small atoll in the middle of the pacific at the beginning of the 2nd World War.
The book was so much easier to read than I expected. Typically I find historical non somewhat harder to read as the author bases the books on facts, and time lines. Although Mr. Sloan does a great job at this, he More...
The book was so much easier to read than I expected. Typically I find historical non somewhat harder to read as the author bases the books on facts, and time lines. Although Mr. Sloan does a great job at this, he More...
Feb 15, 2009
Paul
rated it: 
I cannot recommend this book highly enough to fans of military history or WWII. This book is a detailed account of a forgotten battle.
Lost in the early defeats to the Japanses in WWII is this heroic tale of a battle that could have been won, had tactical blunders not snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.
Lost in the early defeats to the Japanses in WWII is this heroic tale of a battle that could have been won, had tactical blunders not snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.
Jul 29, 2011
If only Husband Kimmel would've remained as CINCPAC just a little longer, Wake Island could have very well been America's first Victory in the Pacific War.
A very detailed and compelling account of the defense of Wake. Read it.
A very detailed and compelling account of the defense of Wake. Read it.
Dec 28, 2008
Andrew
rated it:
One of the better books on the Marine's incredible defense of Wake Island. Author Bill Sloan's interviewed most of the survivors, and he brings a wealth of detail from these Marines that will make the reader wish he was there to assist.
Sep 06, 2010
Gayle
rated it:
Military history is usually something I enjoy and this one is no exception. Concurrently with this, I'm listening to The Bonfire (about the burning of Atlanta during the Civil War.) I've been on a kick lately to read about WWII from the Pacific side of the war. This was well-researched and just the kind of MH I like to read.
Feb 21, 2009
Doug
rated it:
A forgotten battle, forgotten men, and they need to recieve more attention for their sacrifice.
Jan 10, 2011
Scott
rated it:
A remarkable account of the battle for Wake Island in 1941. The book gave much in-depth history and context to the battle and its aftermath.
Theirs is a little known chapter in the huge story of WWII.
The country for a time saw the Marines fighting there as an inspiration, but
the survivors were all but forgotten when they returned from their hellish treatment in a Japanese prisoner of war camp.
Whether you are a history buff or a student of WWII, this is a must read book!
Theirs is a little known chapter in the huge story of WWII.
The country for a time saw the Marines fighting there as an inspiration, but
the survivors were all but forgotten when they returned from their hellish treatment in a Japanese prisoner of war camp.
Whether you are a history buff or a student of WWII, this is a must read book!
Sep 25, 2007
Josh
rated it:
This book reminds us what it is about America there is to be proud of which is something in this day and age. This story really blew my mind away. This is a great story of an epic struggle, about being outnumbered and still fighting against all odds. I was uplifted, on the edge of my seat, I cried. This is an incredible story of courage.
Apr 05, 2011
Bryan
rated it:
A remarkable account of the first and one of the most overlooked battles of World War II. The battle at Wake Island served as an inspiration to an already inspired American ideology in the wake of Pearl Harbor. A very easy an inspiring read for anyone that has any interest in World War II, or American history/military history.
Jan 07, 2008
Peter
rated it:
A wonderful book about a piece of WW2 history that's been relatively forgotten. This is the story of the valiant but brief struggle of the US Navy and Marines to repel the invasion of Wake Island in the mid-Pacific. A very compelling story.
Jul 08, 2008
Andy
rated it: 
Good and interesting read about the history of the battle of Wake Island in the beginning of WWII. Never heard of it? This book is great collection of personal accounts of this battle that, along with Pearl Harbor, began WWII.
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