Finding Your Father's War: A Practical Guide to Researching and Understanding Service in the World War II U.S. Army

In this revised edition of Finding Your Father's War, military historian Jonathan Gawne provides an accessible handbook for understanding the experiences of relatives in World War II and the U.S. Army. Over 470 photographs, charts, and an engaging narrative offer rare insights into wartime service.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 352 pages
\n Publication date: 15 November 2020
\n Publisher: Casemate Publishers
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In this extensively revised edition of Finding Your Father's War, military historian Jonathan Gawne has crafted an accessible guide for anyone seeking to delve deeper into their relatives' experiences during World War II, or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the U.S. Army's role in the conflict. Boasting an impressive array of over 470 photographs, charts, and an engaging narrative filled with rare insights into wartime service, this book serves as an invaluable resource for comprehending the remarkable stories of our citizen soldiers, who, as a generation, rose to confront the most significant war in American history.

The book opens with a poignant introduction that sets the stage for the journey ahead. Gawne explains the significance of understanding our ancestors' experiences during World War II, emphasizing the role that these individuals played in shaping the course of history. He also acknowledges the challenges faced by those who sought to uncover the truth about their loved ones' wartime service, particularly in the absence of official records.

Chapter 1 provides a comprehensive overview of the war, covering key events, battles, and campaigns that unfolded across Europe and Asia. Gawne offers a historical context for the war, highlighting the political, economic, and social factors that contributed to its outbreak. He also discusses the technological advancements that played a crucial role in the conflict, such as the development of aircraft, tanks, and nuclear weapons.

Chapter 2 delves into the recruitment and training of American soldiers. Gawne explains how the military draft system worked and how young men from all walks of life were enlisted to serve their country. He also discusses the various branches of the military and the roles that they played in the war. The chapter includes anecdotes and personal stories that shed light on the experiences of individual soldiers, providing a humanizing perspective on the conflict.

Chapter 3 explores the various theaters of war where American soldiers fought. Gawne discusses the European theater, where the Allies faced off against **** Germany and its allies. He also covers the Pacific theater, where the United States fought against Japan and its allies. The chapter includes detailed accounts of major battles, such as D-Day, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa, and the sacrifices that were made by American soldiers in these battles.

Chapter 4 focuses on the experiences of African American soldiers during World War II. Gawne discusses the historical context of racism and segregation in the military, as well as the challenges that African American soldiers faced during their service. He also highlights the contributions that African American soldiers made to the war effort, such as the Tuskegee Airmen, who were the first African American military pilots.

Chapter 5 explores the role of women in the military during World War II. Gawne discusses the historical background of women in the military, as well as the various roles that they played in the war. He also highlights the contributions that women made to the war effort, such as the Women's Army Corps (WACs), who served in a variety of roles, including administrative, medical, and logistics.

Chapter 6 examines the legacy of World War II and its impact on American society. Gawne discusses the political, social, and cultural changes that occurred as a result of the war, including the emergence of the Cold War and the civil rights movement. He also explores the psychological effects of the war on American soldiers and their families, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues.

Chapter 7 provides resources for those seeking to learn more about their relatives' experiences during World War II. Gawne lists various archives, museums, and organizations that can provide valuable information and support for family history research. He also includes tips and strategies for conducting research and navigating the complexities of family history research.

In conclusion, Finding Your Father's War is an essential resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of World War II and the U.S. Army's role in the conflict. With its extensive collection of photographs, charts, and engaging narrative, this book offers a comprehensive and accessible guide to the experiences of American soldiers during the war. Whether you are a family history enthusiast, a military history buff, or simply someone interested in learning more about the history of our nation, this book is a must-read.

\n Weight: 1048g\n
Dimension: 179 x 253 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781612008950\n \n