Brothers in Arms: The Epic Story of the 761st Tank Battalion, WWII'S Forgotten Heroes

Rating:
Summary: Tribute long overdue
Review: If I were to name the five most important books I'd read on WWII this one would have to be near the top. The only criticism has already been mentioned, it would be great to have theater maps that would help you get a feel for the areas in which the 761st operated. Still what comes through most forcefully for me is the courage and humanity of these soldiers. It's hard to accept that their story has taken so long to tell and that so many are no longer here to accept our thank yous.

Rating:
Summary: Another story from the bulge
Review: The authors do a fine job of showcasing the accomplishments of the African American tankers but also illuminate some of the overlooked battles during that horrendous winter. Good job.

Rating:
Summary: Fighting Against All Odds
Review: Typically, I am not a fan of non-fiction, let alone historical documentaries. Yet BROTHERS IN ARMS is definitely a book that convincingly swayed my opinion. Highlighting the trials and tribulations of the 761st Tank Battalion, which was a unit of colored soldiers never meant to face battle, this book does an excellent job documenting their joys, sorrows and memories. The book revolves around Leonard Smith, a family friend of Abdul-Jabbar and an original member of the 761st.

Although the racial cloud of inequity followed the unit throughout their military careers, they were involved in successfully defending many areas of the European theatre. Originally assembled only to gain the continued support of the Black community during the tenuous times of WWII, the 761st was called into action due to the severe causalities suffered by the Allies. The Battalion successfully defended the European theatre during many crucial battles. This included the Battle of the Bulge in 1944 under the direction of General Patton.

BROTHERS IN ARMS is a captivating literary work that paints a vivid picture of how life was for the Black soldiers. It is not overloaded on details or military jargon that would prevent the average reader from comprehending its historical accounts. If I could offer one suggestion, it would be to have maps included which depict the
areas of battle. For anyone interested in learning more about WWII and the challenges experienced by its Black soldiers in the throes of racial injustice, then I'd definitely recommend BROTHERS IN ARMS.

Reviewed by Nedine
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers