US Infantryman in World War II (3): European Theater of Operations 1944-45

Osprey Warrior #56

by Robert S. Rush

The ETO is seen by many as the major theater of World War II (1939-1945), with more infantry regiments serving there than any other. This title follows one soldier ("Joseph") as he is drafted in February 1941, trains with the 22d Infantry in the United States and then ships to England in January 1944. On D-Day he lands on Utah Beach and in the following months fights through France, Belgium, and into Germany. The problems the common soldier faced between June 1944 and May 1945 are dealt with in particular in this authoritative and moving book.

Genres: World War II, Military History

64 pages, Paperback

First published September 18, 2002

Reviews

[Phoebe Hinkle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful for my research, especially since my MC is in the 4th Infantry Division (though he's in the 12th Regiment, not the 22nd like our hero Joseph). The writing style is a bit dry, but it makes it a little more interesting to have a "character" to follow. Lots of labeled pictures, charts, and diagrams.

But it's unfair that Joseph died near the very end of the war. I mean come on, I wanted to see the guy return home a hero! 😭 Oh well, the men who died fighting in Europe are no less heroes than those who made it to the end. We honor all of their sacrifices. 🩵

A few very minor bits strayed into the politically correct zone, but nothing annoying.