The Longest Winter

On the morning of December 16, 1944, eighteen men of the Intelligence and Reconnaissance platoon attached to the 99th Infantry Division found themselves directly in the path of the main thrust of Hitler’s massive Ardennes offensive. Despite being vastly outnumbered, they were told to hold their position “at all costs.” Throughout the day, the platoon repulsed three large German assaults in a fierce day-long battle, killing hundreds of German soldiers. Only when they had run out of ammunition did they surrender to the enemy.

But their long winter was just beginning. As POWs, the platoon experienced an ordeal far worse than combat-surviving in wretched German POW camps. Yet miraculously the men of the platoon survived-all of them-and returned home after the war.

More than thirty years later, when President Carter recognized the platoon’s “extraordinary heroism” and the U.S. Army approved combat medals for all eighteen men, they became America’s most decorated platoon of World War II. With the same vivid and dramatic prose that made “The Bedford Boys” a national bestseller, Alex Kershaw brings to life the story of these little-known heroes-an epic tale of courage, duty, and survival in World War II and one of the most inspiring episodes in American history. “The Longest Winter” is an intensely human story about young men who find themselves in frightening wartime situations, who fight back instinctively, survive stoically, and live heroically.

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 Longest Winter: The Battle of the Bulge by Alex Kershaw is a gripping and poignant account of the experiences of a small platoon of soldiers caught in the midst of Hitler’s Ardennes offensive during World War II. Kershaw skillfully captures the intensity of the battle and the harrowing conditions faced by the soldiers, painting a vivid picture of their bravery and resilience.

The book presents a comprehensive narrative that goes beyond the tactical aspects of the battle, delving into the personal stories of the men involved. Kershaw brings these characters to life, making the reader emotionally invested in their struggles and triumphs. By focusing on the individual experiences within the larger conflict, Kershaw humanizes the soldiers and emphasizes the immense sacrifices they made.

One of the book’s strengths is Kershaw’s ability to seamlessly integrate historical facts with personal anecdotes, creating a well-rounded and immersive account. His writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex military maneuvers and strategies easy to grasp for readers of all backgrounds.

The Longest Winter not only provides a detailed and accurate description of the Battle of the Bulge but also serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the soldiers who fought in it. Kershaw’s deep research and meticulous attention to detail make this book a valuable addition to any World War II history library. It is a captivating read that pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought in this critical and often overlooked battle.

Overall, The Longest Winter is a powerful and moving account that sheds light on a crucial chapter in history while evoking a sense of admiration and respect for the heroes who lived through it.

Other books by this author: