Holland, James Brothers in Arms (0802159087)

Inspired by Stephen Ambrose (TM)s Band of Brothers, acclaimed WWII historian James Holland memorably profiles an extraordinary group of citizen soldiers constantly in harm (TM)s way. The American-made Sherman tanks the Rangers fought in were as deadly as the shells they fired; their casualties were horrific, but their ranks immediately refilled. Informed by never-before-seen documents, letters, photographs, and other artifacts from Rangers (TM) families 'an ongoing fraternity 'and by his own deep knowledge of the war and personal experience driving a Sherman tank, Holland offers a uniquely intimate portrait of the war at ground level, introducing heretofore unknowns such as Commander Stanley Christopherson, squadron leader John Semken, and Sergeant George Dring. He weaves the Rangers (TM) exploits into the larger narrative and strategy of the war, and also brings to life the German forces against whom the Rangers struggled.

Focusing particularly on the Rangers during the dramatic 11 months between D-Day and V-E Day, Holland presents a vivid and original perspective on the endgame of WWII in Europe.