A Doctor's War: Letters and Reflections from the Frontlines of World War II

Lt. Col./Maj. Arthur L. Ludwick, Jr., was a medical officer on the front lines of World War II who was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star for his care of wounded soldiers. His letters home detail his experiences, and his daughter's narrative reveals his story as the young man she never knew.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Lt. Col./Maj. Arthur L. Ludwick, Jr., a medical officer serving in the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division during World War II, played a crucial role in the care of traumatized and wounded American soldiers during some of the most intense battles in North Africa and Italy. His responsibilities included tending to the wounded at Kasserine and Fondouk Passes, Hill 609, Monte Pantano, Cassino, and Anzio, where he faced the harrowing realities of war. Despite his unarmed status, Ludwick was awarded both the Purple Heart and Silver Star, rare combat commendations for a medical officer. His letters home, filled with vivid descriptions of the people and landscapes he encountered, provide a personal account of his experiences.

This multifaceted narrative, compiled by Ludwick's daughter, delves deeper into her father's life and sheds light on the young man she never knew. Through a combination of Ludwick's letters, interviews, military documents, and photographs, the story unfolds, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives of those who served during World War II.

Ludwick's dedication to his patients and his willingness to risk his own safety in the face of adversity are truly remarkable. His letters home reveal his deep compassion and empathy for the soldiers he cared for, and his observations of the people and landscapes he encountered provide a unique perspective on the war.

This narrative not only honors the memory of Lt. Col./Maj. Arthur L. Ludwick, Jr., but also serves as a tribute to the countless other soldiers who sacrificed their lives in service to their country. It reminds us of the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by those who served in times of war, and of the enduring impact that their experiences can have on their families and communities.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476689098