Over fifteen million men served in the American Army during World War II. Of these men, the vast majority served as support troops, transport soldiers, or reserves. The minority of American soldiers who served as combat infantrymen in Europe, North Africa, or the Pacific, had a difficult lot in life. Infantrymen lived in foxholes during the bitter cold of winter, served in the sweltering heat of Asian jungles, and stormed beaches on three continents. The U.S. Army also included air forces that staged heavy bombing raids over Germany and Japan. In all instances the men who served in the American Army during World War II were part of a cause that was aimed at defeating evil in the form of Hitler’s minions and the imperialist Japanese. This volume in Peter Benoit’s illustrated “True Books” history series focuses on the “dog faces,” or “GI’s,” who made up the U.S. Army in World War II. Benoit does well in this book, as with other volumes in this series, by combining historical accuracy with his ability to bring history to life. After reading this book, youngsters should have a better grasp on the sacrifices made by American soldiers during a war that claimed over fifty million lives worldwide. Part of the “True Book” series. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck; Ages 10 to 14.
