Synopses & Reviews
This is the first book ever devoted entirely to the St. Mihiel operation and its ramifications. It details Pershing's struggle to form an independent American army in France and the importance of the St. Mihiel operation from both political and military perspectives. It links historical events and details in a way that has never been done on this subject, pulling from a variety of sources to depict motivations, events, and political and military thought. It supports the conclusion—debated by historians and military men for over 75 years—that Pershing might have been able to end the war in September 1918, if not held back by the machinations of the Allies.
Review
. . . vivid presentation, based on first-hand accounts from long-neglected sources, of the nature of frontline combat in the Great War's final stages.Publishers Weekly
Review
The value in Hallas's book lies in his brief but elegant sketches of the AEF's leaders (Pershing, MacArthur, Marshall, Patton, Donovan, many of whom went on to prominence in WWII), and his accounts of America's first use of tanks and air power drawn from participants' first-hand descriptions of the battle. Not neglecting the German side of the story, he also offers insightful analysis of the Imperial Army's situation strategically and tactically, as well in terms of its eroding morale. An excellent effort and a recommended read.Trench-Linex
Review
This clear combat narrative is enhanced by details of units and individual soldierd, of one of the finest armies America ever fielded. Maps, photos, and Praeger Publication's usual excellent index.Amazon.comBooks
Review
Hallas has covered one of the more controversial episodes in American military history--General Pershing's assault on the German position in the St. Mihiel Salient in September 1918. This is not an impersonal "campaign history"; the personal experiences of U.S. troops are included. Recommended for World War I and military history collections.Library Journal
About the Author
JAMES H. HALLAS is publisher of the Glastonbury Citizen, a newspaper in Glastonbury, Connecticut.
Table of Contents
Maps
Preface
Pershing Chooses His Ground
Building an Army
Planning for Victory
Feints and Deceptions
Foch Reneges
The Doughboys Gather
Waiting for Battle
Attack
IV Corps Breaks Through
I Corps Drives North
The Germans Take Stock
Von Fuchs Retreats
The Doughboys Press On
Night March on Vigneulles
Eyes on Metz
Resistance Stiffens
To the Meuse-Argonne
The Germans Wonder
Charade at St. Mihiel
Death and Deception at Marcheville
Epilogue: Pondering Victory
Bibliography
Index