The Liberator

Written with Alex Kershaw’s trademark narrative drive and vivid immediacy, The Liberator traces the remarkable battlefield journey of maverick U.S. Army officer Felix Sparks through the Allied liberation of Europe—from the first landing in Italy to the final death throes of the Third Reich.

His only realistic hope of survival was to order his own artillery to fire on his positions to stall the German attack. Some of his own men might be killed, but “pulling the chain,” as it was called, was his only option.

The Liberator: One World War II Soldier’s 500-Day Odyssey from the Beaches of Sicily to the Gates of Dachau is a gripping and harrowing account of the experiences of infantry officer Felix Sparks during World War II. Authored by Alex Kershaw, the book offers a powerful narrative that captures the realities of war and the human toll it takes.

Kershaw takes the reader on a journey with Felix Sparks and the men of the 157th Infantry Regiment of the 45th “Thunderbird” Division after finding unique and until now, not seen photographs of an American officer stopping US troops from shooting unarmed Waffen SS prisoners at Dachau Concentration Camp. What a photo, it’s true – a picture is worth a thousand words!

Kershaw’s storytelling abilities shine through in The Liberator. He weaves together historical facts, Sparks’ personal recollections, and interviews with other veterans to create a vivid and immersive account. The book vividly portrays the horrors of combat, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the physical and emotional toll of war on individuals.

Kershaw’s research is meticulous, evident in the attention to detail and the comprehensive understanding of the historical context surrounding Sparks’ journey. The book provides a valuable perspective on lesser-known campaigns and the sacrifices made by soldiers in the European theater.

However, some readers may find the narrative at times overly focused on the individual experiences of Sparks, which may limit the broader understanding of the war effort. Additionally, while Kershaw does touch on the moral complexities of war, there is a missed opportunity for deeper exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers in the midst of conflict.

Overall, The Liberator is a compelling and moving tribute to the bravery and resilience of soldiers during World War II. It offers a gripping narrative that brings the reader into the heart of the action and serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.

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