Shavetail: The Odyssey of an Infantry Lieutenant in World War II

by William L. Devitt

Because he went a military school, when he was sent to the beaches of Normandy, it was as a liuetenant. So, this boy who had never seen battle was sent to lead others and try to bring them home safely. With photos. This book mentions many of the great battles in World War II.

232 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2001

Reviews

[William Drehmel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish I could rate this 3.5. WWII vet from St Paul sets down his thoughts as a lieutenant fresh out of training sent to fight in the Allies push against the Nazis. Has lots of good information about what a newly officer goes through, what a rifle platoon was, what makes up a battalion etc. Occasionally was repetitious about various topics. Overall did a good job talking about fear, terror, confusion, loss of life etc. Sometimes humorous, sometimes resigned to his fate, but always going forward. It is worth reading.

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew the author. He was my father's close friend. Devitt once said that you haven't really fought a war until you've fought the Wehrmacht. He wasn't trying to be funny, even though he had a reputation as a quick wit.