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At First Light: A True World War II Story of a Hero, His Bravery, and an Amazing Horse
What makes 2nd Lieutenant Phil Larimore’s story special is what happened in World War II’s closing days and the people—and horses—he interacted with in this Forrest Gump-like tale that is emotional, heartbreaking, and inspiring.
Growing up in the 1930s in Memphis, Tennessee, Phil Larimore is the ultimate Boy Scout—able to read maps, put a compass to good use, and traverse wild swamps and desolate canyons. His other great skill is riding horses.
Phil does poorly in school, however, leading his parents send to him to a military academy. After Pearl Harbor, Phil realizes he is destined for war. Three weeks before his eighteenth birthday, he becomes the youngest candidate to ever graduate from Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning, Georgia.
Landing on the Anzio beachhead in February 1944, Phil is put in charge of an Ammunition Pioneer Platoon in the 3rd Infantry Division. Their deliver ammunition to the frontline foxholes—a dangerous assignment involving regular forays into No Man’s Land.
As Phil fights his way up the Italian boot, into Southern France and across the Rhine River into Germany, he is caught up in some of the most intense combat ever. But it’s what happens in the final stages of the war and his homecoming that makes Phil’s story incredibly special and heartwarming.
An emotional tale of courage, daring, and heroism, At First Light will remind you of the indomitable human spirit that lives in all of us.
Growing up in the 1930s in Memphis, Tennessee, Phil Larimore is the ultimate Boy Scout—able to read maps, put a compass to good use, and traverse wild swamps and desolate canyons. His other great skill is riding horses.
Phil does poorly in school, however, leading his parents send to him to a military academy. After Pearl Harbor, Phil realizes he is destined for war. Three weeks before his eighteenth birthday, he becomes the youngest candidate to ever graduate from Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning, Georgia.
Landing on the Anzio beachhead in February 1944, Phil is put in charge of an Ammunition Pioneer Platoon in the 3rd Infantry Division. Their deliver ammunition to the frontline foxholes—a dangerous assignment involving regular forays into No Man’s Land.
As Phil fights his way up the Italian boot, into Southern France and across the Rhine River into Germany, he is caught up in some of the most intense combat ever. But it’s what happens in the final stages of the war and his homecoming that makes Phil’s story incredibly special and heartwarming.
An emotional tale of courage, daring, and heroism, At First Light will remind you of the indomitable human spirit that lives in all of us.
480 pages, Hardcover
Published April 19, 2022
65 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Walt Larimore
74 books120 followersDr. Larimore is one of America’s best-known family physicians and is listed in the Best Doctors in America, Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare, and the International Health Professionals of the Year. His MD degree is from Louisiana State University, with AOA Honors, while his Family Medicine residency, with an emphasis in Sports Medicine was at the Duke University Medical Center, where he was named one of the top twelve Family Medicine residents in the nation. He also completed a Queen’s Teaching Fellowship in Nottingham, England.
After his training, Dr. Larimore practiced 4 years in the Smoky Mountains before moving to Central Florida to practice for 16 years. From 1993-1994 he served as the President of the Florida Academy of Family Physicians. In 1996, he was named America’s Outstanding Family Medicine Educator by the American Academy of Family Physicians. In 2000, Dr. and Mrs. Larimore were named Educators of the Year by the Christian Medical Association.
The Larimores relocated to Colorado Springs in 2001. Besides practicing family medicine, Dr. Larimore is also an author, educator, and medical journalist. He serves on the adjunct family medicine faculty of the In His Image Family Medicine Residency in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver.
As a medical journalist, from 1996 to 2001, Dr. Larimore hosted over 850 episodes of the daily, live Ask the Family Doctor show on Fox’s Health Network, being awarded the prestigious "Gracie" Award by the American Women in Radio and Television. From 2002 to 2004, Dr. Larimore hosted the Focus on Your Family’s Health’s syndicated radio and TV features.
Dr. Larimore is a frequent guest about family health topics on a wide variety of television and radio programs and has appeared on The Today Show, CBS’s Morning Show, several Fox News programs, and CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360. He provides medical commentary for radio stations in Chicago, Orlando, Baltimore, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Tampa, Albuquerque, and Ft. Wayne.
Dr. Larimore has written or edited over twenty books and over 600 articles in a variety of medical journals and lay magazines. His best-selling books include Bryson City Tales, Bryson City Seasons, and Alternative Medicine: The Christian Handbook.
Dr. Larimore co-wrote, with Barb, his childhood sweetheart and wife of over 35 years, His Brain, Her Brain: How divinely designed differences can strengthen your marriage. He also wrote the health chapter for Coach Joe Gibb’s best-selling book Game Plan for Life.
Dr. Larimore’s most recent health book is 10 Essentials of Happy, Healthy People, an undated and revised version of his award winning book 10 Essentials of Highly Healthy People. In 2009 he co-wrote his first novel, Time Scene Investigators: The Gabon Virus, with Paul McCusker. The sequel, Time Scene Investigators: The Influenza Bomb will be released in 2010.
After his training, Dr. Larimore practiced 4 years in the Smoky Mountains before moving to Central Florida to practice for 16 years. From 1993-1994 he served as the President of the Florida Academy of Family Physicians. In 1996, he was named America’s Outstanding Family Medicine Educator by the American Academy of Family Physicians. In 2000, Dr. and Mrs. Larimore were named Educators of the Year by the Christian Medical Association.
The Larimores relocated to Colorado Springs in 2001. Besides practicing family medicine, Dr. Larimore is also an author, educator, and medical journalist. He serves on the adjunct family medicine faculty of the In His Image Family Medicine Residency in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver.
As a medical journalist, from 1996 to 2001, Dr. Larimore hosted over 850 episodes of the daily, live Ask the Family Doctor show on Fox’s Health Network, being awarded the prestigious "Gracie" Award by the American Women in Radio and Television. From 2002 to 2004, Dr. Larimore hosted the Focus on Your Family’s Health’s syndicated radio and TV features.
Dr. Larimore is a frequent guest about family health topics on a wide variety of television and radio programs and has appeared on The Today Show, CBS’s Morning Show, several Fox News programs, and CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360. He provides medical commentary for radio stations in Chicago, Orlando, Baltimore, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Tampa, Albuquerque, and Ft. Wayne.
Dr. Larimore has written or edited over twenty books and over 600 articles in a variety of medical journals and lay magazines. His best-selling books include Bryson City Tales, Bryson City Seasons, and Alternative Medicine: The Christian Handbook.
Dr. Larimore co-wrote, with Barb, his childhood sweetheart and wife of over 35 years, His Brain, Her Brain: How divinely designed differences can strengthen your marriage. He also wrote the health chapter for Coach Joe Gibb’s best-selling book Game Plan for Life.
Dr. Larimore’s most recent health book is 10 Essentials of Happy, Healthy People, an undated and revised version of his award winning book 10 Essentials of Highly Healthy People. In 2009 he co-wrote his first novel, Time Scene Investigators: The Gabon Virus, with Paul McCusker. The sequel, Time Scene Investigators: The Influenza Bomb will be released in 2010.
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June 28, 2022MWSA Review
Walt Larimore and Mike Yorkey’s At First Light is the saga of his father’s unending bravery in the U.S. Army during WW ll. Despite being the youngest commissioned officer in the war, Phil Larimore immediately develops into the quintessential soldier: just as good at following as leading. Everyone around him recognizes that he is comprised wholly of tenacity.
A play-by-play of Phil’s training and combat exploits brings us to the front lines with its challenges, accomplishments, horror, death, and cold (literally) harsh realities of war. Phil performed his mission of delivering ammunition to the troops through seemingly insurmountable obstacles, earning decoration after decoration, and probably more important to him, the respect of his troops. They would have followed him to the ends of the earth, and they did just that, time after time.
As we see Phil lead his troops through Italy, France, and Germany, we get a history lesson and a reminder of true American heroes. We get to know the characters, complete with photos, including the animals in Phil’s world. He trains mules to get supplies and equipment to the front lines. He was also highly skilled with horses, but his love for them is what gets him through hard times, even after the war. The usually stark WW II story is humanized by this unequivocal expertise, and his romantic joys and heartbreaks.
Through years of research the author discovered that distinct part of life so many of our fathers and grandfathers couldn’t share. Never before has a book moved me to tears, out of pride—for 2nd Lieutenant Phil Larimore’s legacy, and my own humble service in the U.S. Army.
Review by Sue Rushford (June 2022)
Walt Larimore and Mike Yorkey’s At First Light is the saga of his father’s unending bravery in the U.S. Army during WW ll. Despite being the youngest commissioned officer in the war, Phil Larimore immediately develops into the quintessential soldier: just as good at following as leading. Everyone around him recognizes that he is comprised wholly of tenacity.
A play-by-play of Phil’s training and combat exploits brings us to the front lines with its challenges, accomplishments, horror, death, and cold (literally) harsh realities of war. Phil performed his mission of delivering ammunition to the troops through seemingly insurmountable obstacles, earning decoration after decoration, and probably more important to him, the respect of his troops. They would have followed him to the ends of the earth, and they did just that, time after time.
As we see Phil lead his troops through Italy, France, and Germany, we get a history lesson and a reminder of true American heroes. We get to know the characters, complete with photos, including the animals in Phil’s world. He trains mules to get supplies and equipment to the front lines. He was also highly skilled with horses, but his love for them is what gets him through hard times, even after the war. The usually stark WW II story is humanized by this unequivocal expertise, and his romantic joys and heartbreaks.
Through years of research the author discovered that distinct part of life so many of our fathers and grandfathers couldn’t share. Never before has a book moved me to tears, out of pride—for 2nd Lieutenant Phil Larimore’s legacy, and my own humble service in the U.S. Army.
Review by Sue Rushford (June 2022)
May 4, 2022
This is a book you have to read! It is a true story of the writer Walt Larimore's father, a true WW II hero Phil Larimore. It is a story of a hero, his bravery and an amazing horse. You will be amazed at his exploits and drawn in page after page to the harrowing exploits he and his comrades went through and his incredible courage, bravery and sacrifice. Reading it has deepened my understanding and helped me to appreciate and be more grateful for the terrible sacrifices he and others made to keep us free. I was captivated by it from the start and found it hard to put down until I just couldn't stay awake any more each night. You will count yourself richer for having read it.
May 6, 2022
A captivating and compelling story of a true American hero. As the son of a World War II veteran, At First Light made me reflect on the great dedication and sacrifice embodied in Phil Larimore, who fought to protect everything that is great about America. His courage and leadership in the face of intense combat shows what is deep in the heart of every soldier. Thanks, Walt Larimore, for sharing your amazing father with us!
September 5, 2023
Another book my grandma lended me to read. Definitely not as dry as other nonfiction I’ve read, but still leaned too heavy into battle details for me.
May 22, 2022
Imagine a war story that morphs into a cowboy saga about driving world-famous horses away from a secret Nazi stronghold. I was mesmerized by the development of the main character, Phil Larimore, from troubled teen past his love interests and into the formation of a genuine but forgotten military hero. He was not quite 18 years old when he graduated from Officer Candidate School as the youngest 2nd Lieutenant to have been minted in that program. I felt that the true account was becoming more intertwined as a coming-of-age drama when we share in Phil's burgeoning love interests with girls…and horses!
Further imagine the pride I felt while reading about my own father, Ross Calvert, Jr., who only talked with me about the War on two memorable occasions but about whom I discovered so much while reading Dr. Larimore's remarkable account of his own hero father, Phil Larimore. Our fathers met at Officer Candidate School in 1941, and they became great friends as they fought together, starting in Anzio in the spring of 1944. The outstanding sub plots made the hair on the back of my neck stand up more than once. One noteworthy aspect of this account is that it is all true history based upon verification and meticulous research.
I have not had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Larimore but we have spoken on the phone and traded emails over several years. He knew that my dad and his were both Tennessee boys going to war and who became fast friends. . Much of what I have learned about Ross Calvert, Jr.'s wartime experiences, I owe to Walt Larimore and his careful research over 16 years. With scores of footnotes and many appendices, this account shows how the facts had to be chiseled laboriously from many historical written accounts, personal letters and by traveling extensively to all the places described in his book. I thought that it was studiously compiled and written with honor and affection for the father who remained so reticent about all of the details (a trait shared by my dad) which Walt Larimore had to dig out on his own. I think that one of the great win-wins with at First Light is that all of the documentation provides a pretty thorough history and geography lesson which amplify the overall impact of this remarkable account.
Ross Calvert III
Further imagine the pride I felt while reading about my own father, Ross Calvert, Jr., who only talked with me about the War on two memorable occasions but about whom I discovered so much while reading Dr. Larimore's remarkable account of his own hero father, Phil Larimore. Our fathers met at Officer Candidate School in 1941, and they became great friends as they fought together, starting in Anzio in the spring of 1944. The outstanding sub plots made the hair on the back of my neck stand up more than once. One noteworthy aspect of this account is that it is all true history based upon verification and meticulous research.
I have not had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Larimore but we have spoken on the phone and traded emails over several years. He knew that my dad and his were both Tennessee boys going to war and who became fast friends. . Much of what I have learned about Ross Calvert, Jr.'s wartime experiences, I owe to Walt Larimore and his careful research over 16 years. With scores of footnotes and many appendices, this account shows how the facts had to be chiseled laboriously from many historical written accounts, personal letters and by traveling extensively to all the places described in his book. I thought that it was studiously compiled and written with honor and affection for the father who remained so reticent about all of the details (a trait shared by my dad) which Walt Larimore had to dig out on his own. I think that one of the great win-wins with at First Light is that all of the documentation provides a pretty thorough history and geography lesson which amplify the overall impact of this remarkable account.
Ross Calvert III
May 27, 2022
At First Light recounts the combat experiences of the author’s father, Philip B. Larimore Jr., who served as an infantry officer in the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Joining the veteran division in the Anzio Beachhead in mid-February 1944, Second Lieutenant Larimore encountered intense, unrelenting combat over a four-month period. In August, Larimore’s regiment participated in the invasion of southern France, the ensuing desperate fighting in the Vosges Mountains throughout the fall and winter, and the final offensive through southern Germany in the spring of 1945. Through Larimore’s eyes, the reader experiences the harsh realities of close combat in rugged terrain and severe weather. This book explores the personal side of Phil as well. As an avid equestrian, Larimore shares his intimate bond with horses, to include his hand in rescuing several Lipizzaner stallions in Czechoslovakia. Severely wounded during the closing days of the war, Phil losses a leg and undergoes months of rehabilitation in the United States. Fighting to remain in the peacetime Army, Phil has the privilege to work with the horses of the Old Guard at Fort Meyer, Virginia. While denied continued service, Phil was reunited with Chugwater, the bay gelding he had befriended in Czechoslovakia. It is a fitting tribute to an American hero.
December 19, 2024
At First Light: A True World War II Story of a Hero, His Bravery, and an Amazing Horse
“At First Light” by Walt Larimore and Mike Yorkey tells the story of Phil Larimore (Walt Larimore’s father) and his unwavering gallantry in the American Army during World War II.
The incredible tale of a brilliant young infantry officer has all the qualities we associate with our “Greatest Generation” especially duty, honor, and country”. These qualities are infused and embodied by Phil Larimore. I was deeply touched and amazed by how bold and courageous this young officer was. Only Phil’s incredible selflessness and care for his soldiers rival his bravery.
Despite being the war's (and possibly the Army’s) youngest commissioned officer, Phil Larimore quickly proves himself to be the ideal soldier: equally adept at following as he is at leading. Everyone who is close to him can see that his entire being is tenacity and purpose.
This detailed account of Phil's combat experiences and training takes us to the front lines, where we experience the hardships, victories, terror, and brutal cold reality of war.
A nearly forgotten hero, difficult combat, heartbreaking sacrifice, compelling aftermath, a magnificent horse, and an astounding conclusion make up this incredible tale.
Larimore and Yorkey’s storytelling is unique in that it feels part superhero yet deeply grounded in the personal thoughts (via letters to Phil’s mother) of this humble officer. At once otherworldly bravery coupled with a very young man’s touching relationships with his Mom, friends and his lady in waiting. Being an only child REALLY engages the reader in Phil’s horse whisperer talent and his unbreakable bonds with his men.
In my experience there has never been a story quite like “At First Light…”. Nearly as epic as the Iliad yes personable and introspective.
At First Light is a brilliant honorific that celebrates the lives of our World War II heroes—those selfless Americans who sacrificed everything downrange, day after trying day—against the most difficult, tenacious, and frequently barbaric foe to liberate Europe and defend our freedom and liberty at home.
Reading this book can ensure that we never forget the sacrifices made by this generation. Plus it is just such a joy!
“At First Light” by Walt Larimore and Mike Yorkey tells the story of Phil Larimore (Walt Larimore’s father) and his unwavering gallantry in the American Army during World War II.
The incredible tale of a brilliant young infantry officer has all the qualities we associate with our “Greatest Generation” especially duty, honor, and country”. These qualities are infused and embodied by Phil Larimore. I was deeply touched and amazed by how bold and courageous this young officer was. Only Phil’s incredible selflessness and care for his soldiers rival his bravery.
Despite being the war's (and possibly the Army’s) youngest commissioned officer, Phil Larimore quickly proves himself to be the ideal soldier: equally adept at following as he is at leading. Everyone who is close to him can see that his entire being is tenacity and purpose.
This detailed account of Phil's combat experiences and training takes us to the front lines, where we experience the hardships, victories, terror, and brutal cold reality of war.
A nearly forgotten hero, difficult combat, heartbreaking sacrifice, compelling aftermath, a magnificent horse, and an astounding conclusion make up this incredible tale.
Larimore and Yorkey’s storytelling is unique in that it feels part superhero yet deeply grounded in the personal thoughts (via letters to Phil’s mother) of this humble officer. At once otherworldly bravery coupled with a very young man’s touching relationships with his Mom, friends and his lady in waiting. Being an only child REALLY engages the reader in Phil’s horse whisperer talent and his unbreakable bonds with his men.
In my experience there has never been a story quite like “At First Light…”. Nearly as epic as the Iliad yes personable and introspective.
At First Light is a brilliant honorific that celebrates the lives of our World War II heroes—those selfless Americans who sacrificed everything downrange, day after trying day—against the most difficult, tenacious, and frequently barbaric foe to liberate Europe and defend our freedom and liberty at home.
Reading this book can ensure that we never forget the sacrifices made by this generation. Plus it is just such a joy!
August 9, 2022
Great read, heart felt and provides a great insight to WWII life of a solder. Wonderful story of an amazing man, solder, father & horseman. also , loved all the facts & history provided. Will read this one again. Highly recommend.
January 3, 2023
I knew the man and knew that there were stories but it was never spoken about.Amongst men and other adults.I always felt there was this deep adult respect amongst his peers but didn't understand it.Knew it had something to do with that war but nothing more.And then I was told at his funeral of his experiences during WWII.I was blown away.I must also say that the funeral was over the top.Beautiful old church hymns and beautiful patriotic hymns were played and sung.There wasn't a dry eye in that church that day.
This book gave me in-depth look into this man's life during WWII.Ifelt like I gained a better understanding of him and that generation.These authors did such a wonderful job bringing this true story to life with character development and the details in the narrative.I could hear the man speak and do the things that he did.Good fate, bad fate,...whatever faced him ,he dealt with it.He did what needed to be done ,took care of his men and just lived out selfless leadership skills in furious battles in three campaigns at the age of 20-21.Amazing how he dealt with his fate.
Was he some type of golden boy?I'd say yes but look what da hell he endured.The battles,loss of his men,being wounded twice and once left for dead.Operations on his leg,rehabs.inventing his own rehabs.Tough price to pay for that label.I knew him as a tough character and knew his direct assertive voice.This book gave me something to value...Thank you to the authors..m
This book gave me in-depth look into this man's life during WWII.Ifelt like I gained a better understanding of him and that generation.These authors did such a wonderful job bringing this true story to life with character development and the details in the narrative.I could hear the man speak and do the things that he did.Good fate, bad fate,...whatever faced him ,he dealt with it.He did what needed to be done ,took care of his men and just lived out selfless leadership skills in furious battles in three campaigns at the age of 20-21.Amazing how he dealt with his fate.
Was he some type of golden boy?I'd say yes but look what da hell he endured.The battles,loss of his men,being wounded twice and once left for dead.Operations on his leg,rehabs.inventing his own rehabs.Tough price to pay for that label.I knew him as a tough character and knew his direct assertive voice.This book gave me something to value...Thank you to the authors..m
July 25, 2022
The son, nephew and son-in-law of those who were part of what Tom Brokaw called the greatest generation, I have been an avid consumer of World War II books over the years, but none that touched me to the degree that Dr. Walt Larimore’s portrayal of his father Major Phil Larimore’s epic heroism in the Allies’ victory in Germany. In his epilogue, the author notes that his original intent was to write this as a novel, but a friend fortunately convinced him otherwise by noting that “a novel needs to be believable, and a nonfiction book needs to be unbelievable. Your dad’s story is the latter.” It is an incredible tale, expertly told, of courage, leadership and heroism from one of the youngest officers in the Army and one of its most decorated soldiers. It is an emotional whirlwind that does not soft-pedal the ugliness of war, juxtaposed with Major Larimore’s touching love of horses, including a very special one. Like so many war veterans, Major Larimore was reluctant to talk about his experiences, though late in life he began to open up about them. We should be glad he did. Major Larimore’s story deserves to be remembered, not forgotten.
November 23, 2022
Get a quiet weekend and a full box of tissues and be prepared to be amazed, moved, grieved, and proud of Phil Larimore - a handful of a kid who found his calling in the military, becoming the youngest graduate of the Army's Officer Candidate School, made Major by age 23, fighting from the Italy D-Day invasion, Antioch, Rome, through France, and into the final thrust into Germany, finally becoming seriously wounded in the frantic German retreat just days before Hitler's suicide. By the time he was 23, he had become one of the most decorated soldiers of WWII. Read about his love for horses and how he saved them on the battlefield, and how they saved him! An extraordinary book about an extraordinary man and a most amazing life journey, it takes you from that young boy goofing off in school to a young man playing bridge with the President and Generals after repeatedly risking his life for others.
I hope each of you reads it. It demonstrates the truth that Freedom isn't free, but it's worth fighting for, that fighting so another gains freedom is worthy, and that with every loss we face a choice of whether or not to get bitter or fight for gratitude, humility, and joy.
I hope each of you reads it. It demonstrates the truth that Freedom isn't free, but it's worth fighting for, that fighting so another gains freedom is worthy, and that with every loss we face a choice of whether or not to get bitter or fight for gratitude, humility, and joy.
November 14, 2022
At First Light is such a rich war-time story. Many themes in this book resonated with me. First was the sheer tenacity of a very young man, in extremely trying circumstances. He repeatedly found courage and strength to meet overwhelming challenges, and he led others to do the same. I appreciate the officers who recognized and nurtured Phil's talents and passions. In turn, Phil brought out the best in the men that he was leading. The world needs more leaders of this caliber! This book also educated me on the grim realities of a ground-fought war. And then, a fun surprise for me was when Phil and other soldiers went to the Canteen in North Platte, Nebraska. I'm very familiar with the North Platte Canteen, because my mom and her family donated to and served at the Canteen throughout the war. I am so glad I read this book, and I'm sure I'll read it again.
November 11, 2022
Excellent view of war time and the effect it had on the American families. Having lived during this period it brought back the sadness of seeing the Military cars delivering the dreaded telegrams and the effect it had on the families. Also remember the day it all ended hearing the Church Bells, Car horns, and Sirens announcing our family members would be coming home. Many families paid the heavy price of Freedom as is expressed so vivid in the book. Passed my copy of the book on to my Grandson and he thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Great book!!
July 19, 2022
I have read a lot of historical fiction surrounding WWII, and am not normally drawn to non-fiction or war documentaries. However, "At First Light" was engaging and fascinating! The true story of the author's father, It contained insights into human survival, excellence, and thriving in spite of circumstances that were inspiring. I couldn’t put it down!
November 20, 2022
I’ve read and enjoyed several books by this author, this is my favorite so far. This book is a good fit for those like me that prefer non fiction, as well those that like fiction. It is based on true accounts from WWII, a gem for any history buffs. I can envision this story as a promising candidate to turn into a movie someday. Be forewarned, once you start reading it you can’t put it down.
July 11, 2022
It's a great read - an amazing story - makes it hard to put down. And the connection to Audy Murphy, Ike and Truman - WOW. The book is also a top quality printing and binding job to top it all off. A great addition to a great library collection.
May 5, 2022
Walt Larimore’s masterful and moving account of his father’s sacrifice in World War II will make you proud to be an American.
October 23, 2024
This is a captivating tribute to the resilience and courage of the Greatest Generation and chronicles the extraordinary journey of Philip B. Larimore Jr., a young officer who became one of World War II's unsung heroes. Set against the backdrop of some of the most intense battles in Southern Europe, the narrative follows Phil Larimore from his youthful days in Memphis, Tennessee, to the brutal front lines of Anzio, Italy. As a second lieutenant with the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Phil's story is one of bravery and tenacity. The authors skillfully weave together Phil's combat experiences with his deep connection to horses—a passion that not only provides solace but also plays a pivotal role in his wartime adventures. The book is rich with recreated scenes and dialogue, a storytelling technique that brings Phil's experiences to life but may leave some readers questioning the line between fact and fiction. Nevertheless, these dramatizations are grounded in thorough research and enriched by authentic snippets from Phil's letters home, providing a personal touch that enhances the narrative's emotional depth. A standout moment in Phil's wartime saga is his daring reconnaissance mission to confirm the existence of a German stud farm in Czechoslovakia. This mission intertwines his love for horses with his military duty and culminates in Operation Cowboy, an endeavor to rescue prized equine stock from advancing Soviet forces. Ultimately, “At First Light” is more than just a war story; it's a testament to human spirit and resilience. It celebrates not only Phil Larimore's heroism but also the enduring bonds he formed with his fellow soldiers and the horses he cherished. Readers will find themselves moved by this poignant tale of courage, sacrifice, and redemption.
July 4, 2022
Walt Larimore is a gifted writer and I have read and really enjoyed several of his books but, in my opinion, with At First Light, he has “hit it out of the park!” I guess an important reason I say that is because I am the son of a man who served his country, Canada, in WWII. In his case, he was the pilot of a Halifax 4 engine bomber who, with his crew, did 39 bombing sorties over enemy territory and came home alive each time. The odds of accomplishing this were highly stacked against them. I am very proud of my father! When I learned of At First Light, I immediately identified with the author, a son who was very proud of his father who answered the call to fight for the freedom we enjoy. If Phil Larimore was like my dad, he didn’t voluntarily talk about his experiences in service. The more Dr. Larimore learned about his dad and the details of his time in the infantry, he felt that he could use his talent to share his dad’s story as an inspiration to others. As I read the book, I tried to imagine the magnitude of research Dr. Larimore would have had to do to write with such incredible detail. He wrote it with a style that made you feel that you were right there with his dad. It was hard to put down. There is no question that Phil Larimore was/is a hero. I bet, if he was alive today, he would say that he is not any more a hero than the thousands of other men and women who answered the call of their country. I am sure he would say “all I did was obey and do what I was asked to do.” For all the sons and daughters who had moms, dads, brothers, sisters, etc. who served in any conflict, we thank you for sharing his story! You speak for all of us.
November 10, 2022
Deeply researched and beautifully written, First Light's author has presented a personal story from his heritage that offers the reader a unique insight into relationships forged during World War II. As many others have said, I too, had a close relative who served in World War II. Like Phil Larimore, my father-in-law supplied ammunition to front-line soldiers, most notably in the Battle of the Bulge. Dr. Larimore's recanting of his father's story brought an answer to why my genteel father-in-law rarely spoke of his days in the army. The horrors, death, and devastation that surrounded him were best kept in silence.
Thank you for allowing us to see World War II through the eyes of a true patriot. No doubt, your father would be humbled by your masterful storytelling of the intimate details of his life.
I would love to see this poignant story brought to life on the big screen. I can only imagine the tears I would shed in the movie theatre after the tears that flowed down my cheeks as I turned the pages.
Thank you for allowing us to see World War II through the eyes of a true patriot. No doubt, your father would be humbled by your masterful storytelling of the intimate details of his life.
I would love to see this poignant story brought to life on the big screen. I can only imagine the tears I would shed in the movie theatre after the tears that flowed down my cheeks as I turned the pages.
November 11, 2022
I was drawn to this book because my father was a medic in WWII. It was more personal because the main character Phil Larimore served in the same locations my father talked about being located. Like a lot of veterans from that era, my father did not talk about his experiences very much. The graphic descriptions of the battles and the situations faced were quite emotional for me to read. I feel a deeper level of understanding for the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. I felt like I was with him as he was thrown into “kill or be Killed” situations. I read it over the Memorial Day weekend. This story made for the most memorable recognition of any Memorial Day I can remember.
May 26, 2022
At First Light by Walt Larimore
Much has been written about “The Greatest Generation”, and this book exemplifies what has been said about them. Phil Larimore’s dedication to the mission of preserving freedom from tyranny, and his unique ability with horses, gives readers the story of a remarkable man who courageously led and fought in Europe from the beaches of Anzio to the end of the war in Germany. Like so many of his fellow soldiers, he never felt the need to trumpet his accomplishments and medals, or the amazing people he met, but humbly returned to his life when all was said and done. This should be a must read for all students of World War II history, and is a reminder of the cost of freedom.
Walt, thanks for telling his story.
Much has been written about “The Greatest Generation”, and this book exemplifies what has been said about them. Phil Larimore’s dedication to the mission of preserving freedom from tyranny, and his unique ability with horses, gives readers the story of a remarkable man who courageously led and fought in Europe from the beaches of Anzio to the end of the war in Germany. Like so many of his fellow soldiers, he never felt the need to trumpet his accomplishments and medals, or the amazing people he met, but humbly returned to his life when all was said and done. This should be a must read for all students of World War II history, and is a reminder of the cost of freedom.
Walt, thanks for telling his story.
February 17, 2023
I am a daughter of a WWII soldier who fought through France and into Berlin. As with many children of these amazing veterans, and like Walt, my father didn’t talk about the war until the 50th anniversary. Dad had a few war souvenirs around, but didn’t ever let those items lead into a discussion of his time in France and Germany. This book was a valuable link to that time in his life. The author really put you there - into the daily life, the hardships, and even the personal life that goes on in war. As a horse person myself, there was such truth I saw in all the episodes where horses came into the picture. I could feel them, see them, smell them - and clearly Phil was a special horseman to have that relationship with his mounts. I could also feel and see and smell the battles, the death, the army machine, and understand the saving grace of the men’s comradeship and the support of family back home. This book helped me so much to understand what my father endured during those years and then returned home to marry and raise 5 children. It is a special story about one soldier, but it somehow connects you to and gives understanding of all men that fought and the women that served in that awful war.
May 24, 2022
This book exceeded my expectations. What an amazing and inspirational story, told in a perfect way. The author really did his research in order to provide a historically accurate, factual account, yet also included enough dialogue to make the book engaging—once I got into it, I didn’t want to put it down. I finished the book with a greater understanding of World War II, a greater sense of patriotism and appreciation for our veterans, and a lasting impression that when we face hardships, we can either choose to be bitter or be better. The hero of the story clearly chose the better path.
I honestly hope this book gets into the hands of the right film maker someday—I think it would make an awesome movie! A true story including exciting battles, a bit of romance, impressive horses, and a hero who overcomes and inspires—what else could a movie producer ask for?
I honestly hope this book gets into the hands of the right film maker someday—I think it would make an awesome movie! A true story including exciting battles, a bit of romance, impressive horses, and a hero who overcomes and inspires—what else could a movie producer ask for?
September 6, 2022
This book needs at least 6 stars
I thought all the books about WW2 heroes had already been written. Not true! It was not until Phil Larimore’s death in 2003 that the extent of his heroism was uncovered in boxes at the back of a closet. He landed at Anzio as an 18-year-old 2nd lieutenant, fought up the Italian boot, crossed occupied France, and entered Germany. Along the way he earns almost every army combat metal. The detailed descriptions of his fire fights sound like something Sargent York would have done. His top-secret mission behind enemy lines is declassified for the first time in this book. Four weeks before the end of the war, he loses a leg in combat. While appealing his discharge due to disability, he is stationed at Arlington National Cemetery. President Truman, General Eisenhower, and Winston Churchill are just some of the notables he met. Until his son wrote this book, even his closest friends had no idea of his heroism.
I thought all the books about WW2 heroes had already been written. Not true! It was not until Phil Larimore’s death in 2003 that the extent of his heroism was uncovered in boxes at the back of a closet. He landed at Anzio as an 18-year-old 2nd lieutenant, fought up the Italian boot, crossed occupied France, and entered Germany. Along the way he earns almost every army combat metal. The detailed descriptions of his fire fights sound like something Sargent York would have done. His top-secret mission behind enemy lines is declassified for the first time in this book. Four weeks before the end of the war, he loses a leg in combat. While appealing his discharge due to disability, he is stationed at Arlington National Cemetery. President Truman, General Eisenhower, and Winston Churchill are just some of the notables he met. Until his son wrote this book, even his closest friends had no idea of his heroism.
November 8, 2022
"At First Light" is a well written fast moving story of one of the great junior leaders of WWII. The author’s father, Phil Lattimore, was an infantry rifle platoon leader and company commander for over 500 days of almost continuous fighting in Italy, and southern and eastern France. The book stands beside "Company Commander" and "Band of Brothers" in giving an idea of the courage and ingenuity of great young leaders at the cutting edge of WWII combat. An intriguing story of Lieutenant Lattimore’s love of horses (and one particular Lipizzaner in particular) and the twists and turns of his love life add interest to the story. This book is a WWII classic.
Alexander P. Shine (Colonel, U.S. Army Ret.)
Alexander P. Shine (Colonel, U.S. Army Ret.)
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September 14, 2022Just finished reading this book. It’s one of those books that make you want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I was definitely impressed with the main character’s courage and willingness to put his life on the line over and over again. And all this when he was just 18-22 years old, fighting in the European theater against the Nazis and Italians. I won’t be surprised if this story is made into a movie along the lines of the film “Unbroken.” It is that action packed. I highly recommend this book.
September 15, 2022
When I heard about At First Light, I knew I had to read it. I was not disappointed! Philip B. Larimore, Jr. led an amazing life and this well told story is fascinating to read. Phil was a true hero at such a young age. And I loved reading about his experiences with horses and his personal life during WW II.
The attention to detail and the amount of research done by the author, Walt Larimore, is quite impressive. I highly recommend this book!
The attention to detail and the amount of research done by the author, Walt Larimore, is quite impressive. I highly recommend this book!
July 7, 2022
I am not a military history buff, but this extraordinary book is so personal and engaging that I was totally engrossed in it. I was moved and inspired by Phil Larimore’s courage, sacrifice, selflessness and perseverance as he served our country. Clearly written and easy to follow, the story almost reads like a work of fiction, but his experiences and acts of bravery are well documented through letters, photographs, records and newspaper clippings. This book is an important reminder of the cost of freedom, leaving me filled with gratitude for this exceptional hero and all soldiers who put their lives on the line.
September 13, 2022
I’ve enjoyed other books by Walt Larimore.
At First Light is a wonderful, touching tribute to Walt’s father and his heroic adventures throughout a miserable war.
I don’t read many “war stories”…but this kept my interest with the touching personal stories of his father’s romance and his love for horses. It’s unbelievable how many times he risked his own life for the sake of his troops..A true hero ..this captivated my interest to where I couldn’t put it down.
I appreciated the accuracy and I highly recommend this book.
At First Light is a wonderful, touching tribute to Walt’s father and his heroic adventures throughout a miserable war.
I don’t read many “war stories”…but this kept my interest with the touching personal stories of his father’s romance and his love for horses. It’s unbelievable how many times he risked his own life for the sake of his troops..A true hero ..this captivated my interest to where I couldn’t put it down.
I appreciated the accuracy and I highly recommend this book.
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