The American St. Nick

by Peter Lion

Amidst the dark and painful days of WWII Europe there shown a bright and joyous light—the courage and compassion of the 28th Infantry Division Signal Corps and its Christmas gift to the town of Wiltz, Luxembourg. The American St. Nick is based on the true story of soldiers who donated their gifts from home, military cooks who baked sweets, and Corporal Richard Brookins, who borrowed clothes from the local priest then rode through town as St. Nicolas to the delight of children and parents alike. Thus begins a story soon clouded by the trials of war and the distance of time--clouded, but not forgotten. For the story of that day touched the hearts of generations who reached out across the oceans to the surprise of those living with us today and in honor of the memory of those who stayed behind.

Genres: World War II, Christmas

175 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2003

Reviews

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The memoir is about the US Army in Belgium and Luxembourg during the the Battle of the Bulge...Some of these soldiers end up in the town of Wiltz in Luxembourg., and while they are there, they decided to put on a St. Nicholas celebration because that is a bigger holiday than Christmas (at least in this community) and no one has seen any kind of celebrating around any holiday because of the Germans. When the Americans come in, they organize a ST. Nicholas celebration (suggested by a soldier and heartily encouraged by the people of the town) and distribute treats from their rations (chocolate and so on) to the children of the town. This is a moving event in the life of the town, which has seen little joy over the preceding years. And 30 years after the event, the town works to bring back the American Santa to celebrate this little miracle that occurred during the war. I liked the story. However, the book was probably a self-published effort but whoever was the author's editor did not do a very good job. My "red pen fingers" were twitching.

[Cynthia Bower · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was well written with a lot of detailed information that was clear and real. I appreciated the story development My appreciation for soldiers fighting for the freedom of others grew even more. The book made me feel like I was in the scenes the soldiers were in. Very descriptive and explanatory. Even among the worst of times people can be caring and empathetic to others, taking action for doing good. I'm VERY thankful that this important book was written.

[wilma Buckman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was in my husband’s collection and I was intrigued by the title. I have seen the documentary but I am glad I read the book. A story of appreciation for American troops in world war 2 in a little town in Luxembourg.

[Shaina Sunwall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful Christmas story from WWII.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

My grandpa was one of the soldiers this book is written about. I loved hearing him tell the story of the Christmas they had in Wiltz. It was one of his fondest memories and his best friend was the man who played St. Nick. My grandpa and the other men from the 38th Signal Company returned to Wiltz a few times after the war, and each time, they were treated like rock stars. The town still flies an American flag. I hope someday to be able to go to Wiltz myself to see the town that meant so much to my grandfather.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a quick easy read. Our book club read it before Christmas. It's a quick insight into WW II and the struggles of average people. Into their lives some American soldiers bring joy and compassion.