A story both authentic and stirring. Under hostile fire, the chaplains risked their lives. They sought the wounded, the dying, and the dead who lay exposed and helpless. They succored them, rescued them, brought them back to medical aid stations, and prayed over them. They buried bodies and wrote to the families of the deceased. . . . Crosby's words ... Read morewill bring lumps to the throat, tears to the eyes, and a sense of wonder and joy for their heroism.
Martin Blumenson, author of The Patton Papers Crosby captures the experience of war from the grass roots: the human agony, fearful anticipation, omnipresent danger, and the overwhelming reality of death, and he demonstrates the crucial role played by chaplains. This is a significant contribution to the field of American Catholic and religious history. Scholars and general readers alike will find it fascinating because of the compelling personalities and dramatic anecdotes.
David J. O'Brien, author of Public Catholicism Unsentimental and realistic in his approach, painstaking in his research, and stirring in his presentation, Crosby has given us a story never before told. And he has done so in a style characteristic of the finest examples of America's vast World War II literature.
Eric Hammel, author of Guadalcanal: Starvation Island Crosby transports his readers directly to the front. Here is social history combining thumbnail sketches of key battles with powerful portraits of men of the cloth under fire.
American Historical Review Gracefully, even entertainingly, written, this book gives worthwhile insights into both the work of dedicated chaplains and the daily life of servicemen under fire during World War II.
Journal of American History A compelling story of courageous men.
America A powerful story that provides a marvelous passage through the Second World War.
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