Thomas F. (hardtack) -
The Battle of Guadalcanal is famous for the Marines' determined stand against the Japanese. However, one night on Bloody Ridge, the Marines were only able to hold because newly arrived U.S. Army soldiers of the 164th Infantry were fed into their lines piecemeal. The Marines have always acknowledged the 164th's effort for that night and the following days and nights.
Most books view this battle from the Marine side. However, this memoir offers a different perspective from one of the platoon commanders of the 164th who fought on the Ridge.
Lieutenant Walker went on to command units in other battles later in Guadalcanal and Bougainville campaigns, as well as in the Philippines and on occupation duty in Japan.
Walker came to know death well, killing the Japanese, often in hand-to-hand combat, and seeing his friends die. He rose to the rank of Major and later commanded an Infantry battalion.
His is a fascinating story of bravery, incompetence, twists of fate and continual misery as experienced by the fighting soldier. As a National Guard officer, he has their dislike (hatred?) for Regular Army types, especially the West Point bunch. And perhaps, as you read his story, you might agree with him.
I didn't give this book 5 stars, as some of the tales he told suggested they might be 'war stories.' But strange things happen in war that are totally unbelievable, as I know from personal experience.
Most books view this battle from the Marine side. However, this memoir offers a different perspective from one of the platoon commanders of the 164th who fought on the Ridge.
Lieutenant Walker went on to command units in other battles later in Guadalcanal and Bougainville campaigns, as well as in the Philippines and on occupation duty in Japan.
Walker came to know death well, killing the Japanese, often in hand-to-hand combat, and seeing his friends die. He rose to the rank of Major and later commanded an Infantry battalion.
His is a fascinating story of bravery, incompetence, twists of fate and continual misery as experienced by the fighting soldier. As a National Guard officer, he has their dislike (hatred?) for Regular Army types, especially the West Point bunch. And perhaps, as you read his story, you might agree with him.
I didn't give this book 5 stars, as some of the tales he told suggested they might be 'war stories.' But strange things happen in war that are totally unbelievable, as I know from personal experience.
