The Liberator: One World War II Soldier's 500-Day Odyssey From The Beaches Of Sicily To The Gates Of Dachau (2012) - Plot & Excerpts
Starting with riding the rails during the great depression, Felix Sparks bootstrapped his way into college. When the war came, he became an officer in the Thunderbird Division of the US Army, and went ashore at Sicily. Sparks served with the Thunderbirds up through the Italian Peninsula, then on to Anzio before being transferred to the landing force that entered southern France - four amphibious landings in all. He fought his way into Germany, finally ending up as the liberator of Dachau. Napoleon famously wanted officers who were lucky - I think Napoleon wouldn't have approved much of this American officer. Solidly researched, this biography covers lesser known areas of US involvement in the war, and gives a great picture of a maverick officer. The discovery of the Dachau atrocities are a body blow at the end of Sparks difficult journey through World War II. World War II and the push is on.Landing in Sicily om July 10, 1943,we follow Felix Sparks a young an untried second lieutenant and his unit,the "Thunder Bird" division.From Sicily , Italy, France, and all the way to Berlin the Thunder Birds marched on.Sparks becomes battled hardened along with his men and rises from lieutenant to colonel.We see the wins and the loss, sometimes the battle was won not by strategy but often just by the character of those leading and or those who refused to give up.We see the battle from both sides the Allies and the Axis soldiers.More than just battles and soldiers we see the personal trials as well. Soldiers often those in charge pushed to their limits break down, such as Walsh does after seeing the horrors of Dachau one of the concentration camps that the Thunderbird's liberate.Alex Kershaw spent five years researching and interviewing Sparks as along with many others who participated in this episode of American and World history.He gives us an insight as to the competitive nature and drive of the Allied forces as well as the clash of ego's.This is a story for all ages and one that should be shared. It is the story of war yes, but also of men pushed to their limits,of the human side that is often over looked.I would suggest this for any interested in history and of World War II, it is the untold story of a unit that deserves more recognition than they received for their part in the defeat of Nazi, Germany.
What do You think about The Liberator: One World War II Soldier's 500-Day Odyssey From The Beaches Of Sicily To The Gates Of Dachau (2012)?
Can't argue with a fascinating war story told chronologically and in plain language.
—Ruru11Love
This is a truly amazing and inspiring story. Read it.
—jesskool19
Couldn't stop reading it. A salute to WWII vets.
—Banana
