Doughboys on the Great War: How American Soldiers Viewed Their Military Experience (Modern War Studies)

Delve into the profound stories of honor, courage, and the humanity of soldiers with Dr. Gutierrez's remarkable book, Doughboys on the Great War. This meticulously researched volume serves as an essential counter-narrative to the conventional histories surrounding World War I, particularly concerning the American experience. By focusing on the Doughboys—the term affectionately used for American soldiers—this book offers readers a unique lens through which to examine the Great War. It...

Delve into the profound stories of honor, courage, and the humanity of soldiers with Dr. Gutierrez's remarkable book, Doughboys on the Great War. This meticulously researched volume serves as an essential counter-narrative to the conventional histories surrounding World War I, particularly concerning the American experience. By focusing on the Doughboys—the term affectionately used for American soldiers—this book offers readers a unique lens through which to examine the Great War. It takes you on an enlightening journey from the pre-war climate through the rigorous training soldiers underwent, into the visceral realities faced on the battlefield and the lasting impacts of their service upon returning home.

With six engaging sections, readers will find themselves immersed in the lives of these brave men, uncovering their motivations for enlisting and their varied personal experiences. One of the book’s standout features is the use of previously unpublished primary sources, including soldiers’ own reflections shared through after-action reports and questionnaires, providing a rich tapestry of voices that capture the true essence of their experiences. Gutierrez aims to dismantle the prevalent 'Lost Generation' narrative, arguing that the writers who coined this term lacked an understanding of the common soldier’s perspective, which adds depth and complexity to this historical discussion.

As you turn the pages, expect to encounter not only heart-wrenching accounts but also a commendable exploration of the impact of disease, the unpreparedness of the U.S. for war, and the often-overlooked sentiments of the Doughboys themselves. Doughboys on the Great War goes beyond mere historical facts; it resonates on an emotional level, allowing readers to forge an understanding of the psychological and social ramifications of warfare on individuality and society as a whole.

This book is ideal for history enthusiasts, students, educators, or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of World War I from a distinctly American viewpoint. In a world where narratives often overlook the soldier's voice, Gutierrez’s work emerges as a significant literary and educational gift—shedding light on truths that must not be forgotten.