A U.S. Army Medical Base in World War I France

Brief Summary

"A U.S. Army Medical Base in World War I France" by Peter Wever delves into the history of the Bazoilles Hospital Center, a significant yet often overlooked medical facility during World War I. Located in the northeast of France in the village of Bazoilles-sur-Meuse, the hospital treated over 63,000 American soldiers. The book provides an in-depth exploration of the day-to-day operations, medical care, and the personal stories of both the staff and patients during its operation from 1918 to 1919.

Main Themes and Topics

The primary theme of the book is the exploration of military medical care during World War I, with a specific focus on the experiences within the Bazoilles Hospital Center. It highlights the immense scale and logistical challenges faced by medical personnel in dealing with the sheer volume of wounded soldiers. The book also touches on the personal narratives of the doctors, nurses, and patients, providing a human dimension to historical events. Another key topic is the transformation of the village of Bazoilles-sur-Meuse, which adapted to accommodate a substantial medical facility and its thousands of inhabitants.

Writing Style and Tone

Peter Wever employs a richly descriptive writing style, effectively capturing the historical context and atmosphere of the era. The narrative is supported by a plethora of illustrations that provide visual depth to the text. The tone is informative and engaging, striking a balance between factual reporting and storytelling. Wever's meticulous attention to detail ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the operational and personal aspects of the Bazoilles Hospital Center during World War I.