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larry1138's review against another edition
informative
medium-paced
4.5
Watching the movie The Lost Battalion perhaps gave me the impression that this book would be another highly detailed recollection of the viciousness and tragedy of World War I combat. What I received was not just that, but an impressive exploration of the very concept of strength through diversity.
This particular moment of military history is perhaps one of the most well known stories of American sacrifice in WW1. Charles Whittlesey's command of the companies of the 77th Division during their time in the Argonne Forest encircled by German forces for days is retold in detail. The reader is introduced not just to the men of the 77th, also known as the Metropolitan Division (as a vast majority of them hailed from the extremely diverse New York City), but to Whittlesey's commanders such as Alexander, Johnson, and Pershing. The reader also meets Damon Runyun, a war correspondent who focused on reporting the stories of the common soldier, rather than the higher ranked and popular commanders and officers. And the reader is also introduced to Alvin York, the legendary WW1 veteran who got his first action rescuing the 77th.
And while Lengel does justice to covering many of the viewpoints of each of the individuals in this book, he also takes the time to engage the reader in looking at the bigger picture of the life of an American "doughboy", particularly one drafted from New York City. The Metropolitan Division was diverse, so diverse some thought it was a security risk. So many immigrants could not possibly be loyal to the United States and be an effective fighting unit, right? The story of the Lost Battallion proved that sentiment wrong. The union of urban gangsters, academics, lowlives, businessmen, and even some country boys and farmers was solidified in the desperation of the pocket they were surrounded in. As a New Yorker myself, I can empathize with their plight. Specifically, how shoving a bunch of New Yorkers into a hole while being constantly shelled by artillery and accosted by German sniper fire, flamethrowers, and bayonet charges would lead to some generous and creative cussing at the enemy, which I found very entertaining and very on brand for New York.
Lengel's message then is not just that the experience of the Lost Battalion was extraordinarily awful, but that it was the spirit and dedication of the men to each other, unified of their love of their city and country, that pulled them through.
It was also sad but important to learn of the fate of many of the men after the war ended. Veteran care did not have the formalized system that it has today, though many voluntary associates sprang up. Certain men were held up as heroes. Some were cast aside. Whittlesey's end is particularly tragic. The consequences of war remain long after the last battle is fought.
A high recommend from me for anyone interested in WW1 history.
This particular moment of military history is perhaps one of the most well known stories of American sacrifice in WW1. Charles Whittlesey's command of the companies of the 77th Division during their time in the Argonne Forest encircled by German forces for days is retold in detail. The reader is introduced not just to the men of the 77th, also known as the Metropolitan Division (as a vast majority of them hailed from the extremely diverse New York City), but to Whittlesey's commanders such as Alexander, Johnson, and Pershing. The reader also meets Damon Runyun, a war correspondent who focused on reporting the stories of the common soldier, rather than the higher ranked and popular commanders and officers. And the reader is also introduced to Alvin York, the legendary WW1 veteran who got his first action rescuing the 77th.
And while Lengel does justice to covering many of the viewpoints of each of the individuals in this book, he also takes the time to engage the reader in looking at the bigger picture of the life of an American "doughboy", particularly one drafted from New York City. The Metropolitan Division was diverse, so diverse some thought it was a security risk. So many immigrants could not possibly be loyal to the United States and be an effective fighting unit, right? The story of the Lost Battallion proved that sentiment wrong. The union of urban gangsters, academics, lowlives, businessmen, and even some country boys and farmers was solidified in the desperation of the pocket they were surrounded in. As a New Yorker myself, I can empathize with their plight. Specifically, how shoving a bunch of New Yorkers into a hole while being constantly shelled by artillery and accosted by German sniper fire, flamethrowers, and bayonet charges would lead to some generous and creative cussing at the enemy, which I found very entertaining and very on brand for New York.
Lengel's message then is not just that the experience of the Lost Battalion was extraordinarily awful, but that it was the spirit and dedication of the men to each other, unified of their love of their city and country, that pulled them through.
It was also sad but important to learn of the fate of many of the men after the war ended. Veteran care did not have the formalized system that it has today, though many voluntary associates sprang up. Certain men were held up as heroes. Some were cast aside. Whittlesey's end is particularly tragic. The consequences of war remain long after the last battle is fought.
A high recommend from me for anyone interested in WW1 history.
cassieyorke's review against another edition
5.0
In a world where the US's role in the First World War is tragically overlooked, Lengel's work is essential reading for any student of the conflict. Never In Finer Company removes the rosy tones of patriotism from this horrific siege, giving the reader a real glimpse of the men who struggled and suffered and died - and who would ultimately become known as "The Lost Battalion".
Anyone wanting to know more about Major Whittlesey, his comrades, or their exploits should start here. Lengel's craft is impeccable - his research solid, his writing fast and exciting. You'll be surprised how quickly you finish the book.
Anyone wanting to know more about Major Whittlesey, his comrades, or their exploits should start here. Lengel's craft is impeccable - his research solid, his writing fast and exciting. You'll be surprised how quickly you finish the book.
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