The Battered Bastards of Bastogne

The material contributed by these men of the 101st Airborne Division, the Armor, Tank Destroyer, Army Air Force, and others is tailored meticulously by the author and placed on the historical framework known to most students of the Battle of the Bulge. Pieces of a nearly 60 year old jigsaw puzzle come together in this book, when memoirs related by one soldier fit with those of another unit or group pursuing the battle from another nearby piece of terrain. George Koskimaki is a noted historian of the 101st Airborne Division. His other books include “D Day With The Screaming Eagles” and “Hell’s Highway“.

“To the U.S.A. Commander of the encircled town of Bastogne. There is only one possibility to save the encircled U.S.A. troops from total annihilation: that is the honorable surrender of the encircled town. In order to think it over a term of two hours will be granted beginning with the presentation of this note.“

“To the German Commander, “Nuts!” The American Commander.”

The Battered Bastards of Bastogne by George Koskimaki is an exceptional account of the harrowing Battle of the Bulge during World War II. In this book, Koskimaki presents a collective memoir that stands apart from other works on the subject. Unlike scholarly examinations conducted after the fact, this book relies on the firsthand experiences of the soldiers who lived through the battle.

Through the vivid and gripping personal accounts of the men from the 101st Airborne Division, Armor, Tank Destroyer, Army Air Force, and other units, Koskimaki pieces together a detailed historical narrative. The author’s meticulous research and attention to detail shine through, as he expertly weaves together the perspectives of different soldiers and units involved in the battle.

What makes The Battered Bastards of Bastogne truly remarkable is its ability to transport the reader into the trenches, offering a visceral and immersive experience of the combat. The stories shared by the soldiers create a haunting and poignant portrayal of the unimaginable challenges they faced, the camaraderie forged in the heat of battle, and the resilience they displayed in the face of overwhelming odds.

Koskimaki’s work also provides valuable insights into the strategic aspects of the Battle of the Bulge, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in history. The book’s narrative structure, with the memoirs of individual soldiers interwoven to form a larger historical framework, is both captivating and informative.

Overall, The Battered Bastards of Bastogne is a masterful and compelling account of the Battle of the Bulge. It stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in one of the most significant battles of World War II, making it an essential read for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience in war.

Other books by this author: