American Polar Bears in Russia: Soldiers of the 339th Infantry and the Archangel Campaign, 1918-1919

The U.S. Army 339th Infantry, nicknamed the Polar Bears, was deployed to northern Russia to prevent Allied supplies from falling into the hands of the Bolsheviks after World War I. Their 18-month campaign is narrated from the point of view of riflemen, NCOs, and officers, highlighting the individual soldier's experience fighting the Red Army and the Arctic winter.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2023
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

After World War I, the U.S. Army's 339th Infantry, known as the Polar Bears, was sent to northern Russia to prevent Allied supplies stored near the port city of Archangel from falling into the hands of the Bolsheviks. The 18-month campaign is narrated from the perspective of riflemen, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and officers from Companies I and M, based on firsthand accounts from the regiment's members. Each chapter focuses on the experiences of individual soldiers fighting the Red Army and enduring the harsh Arctic winter, a quarter-century before the Cold War.

The Polar Bears arrived in Russia in September 1918, facing harsh weather conditions and a determined enemy. They quickly established their base near the town of Vorkuta and began patrolling the surrounding area. The soldiers faced numerous challenges, including subzero temperatures, harsh terrain, and relentless enemy fire.

One of the most significant challenges the soldiers faced was the harsh Arctic winter. The temperature dropped to minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the wind chill made it feel even colder. The soldiers were required to wear heavy winter gear, including insulated jackets, gloves, and boots, and they had to carry their supplies and weapons with them at all times.

Despite the harsh conditions, the soldiers of the 339th Infantry remained determined to carry out their mission. They fought bravely against the Red Army, and their efforts were instrumental in preventing the Bolsheviks from gaining control of the Allied supplies.

One of the most notable soldiers of the 339th Infantry was Private First Class William J. Hooper. Hooper was a native of Wisconsin who had joined the Army in 1917. He was assigned to Company I, and he quickly earned the respect of his fellow soldiers for his bravery and dedication.

Hooper was deployed to the front line in December 1918, and he quickly proved himself to be a skilled fighter. He was known for his bravery in battle and his ability to lead his men in the face of danger. In one particularly brave action, Hooper single-handedly took out a group of enemy soldiers who had ambushed his unit.

Despite his bravery, Hooper was not immune to the harsh conditions of the Arctic winter. He contracted pneumonia and was hospitalized for several weeks. However, he refused to leave his fellow soldiers and continued to fight until he was able to return to the front line.

Hooper's story is just one example of the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers of the 339th Infantry. They faced countless challenges and hardships, but they never wavered in their commitment to their mission. Their 18-month campaign in northern Russia was a testament to their strength and determination, and their legacy continues to inspire soldiers to this day.

In conclusion, the 339th Infantry's 18-month campaign in northern Russia during World War I was a remarkable feat of bravery and determination. The soldiers faced countless challenges, including subzero temperatures, harsh terrain, and relentless enemy fire, but they never wavered in their commitment to their mission. Their legacy continues to inspire soldiers to this day, and their story is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476686509