Bataan Survivor
by David L. Hardee
"A POW’s Account of Japanese Captivity in World War II"
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Bataan Survivor by David L. Hardee
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Prisoners of War
Military Unit:
US Army
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Asia
Page Count:
321
Published Date:
2017
ISBN13:
9780826273598
Description
Main Themes and Topics
by David L. Hardee is a powerful memoir that delves into the harrowing experiences of American and Filipino soldiers during World War II. The book primarily focuses on the themes of valor, sacrifice, and survival under brutal conditions. Hardee’s firsthand account provides a detailed narrative of the Battle of Bataan, the infamous Bataan Death March, and life in various POW camps. These experiences highlight the immense resilience and courage exhibited by soldiers during a time of unimaginable hardship. The memoir also touches upon themes of liberation and the enduring human spirit, as Hardee recounts his ordeal leading up to and following his eventual release from captivity.
Writing Style and Tone
David L. Hardee's writing style in Bataan Survivor is direct and unembellished, offering readers a raw and unfiltered look at the realities faced by prisoners of war. Composed shortly after Hardee's liberation, the memoir provides a fresh perspective untainted by the passage of time or external interpretations. The tone is somber yet reflective, capturing both the grimness of war and the camaraderie that emerged among fellow prisoners. Hardee's narrative is meticulous in detail, allowing readers to grasp the severity of conditions while also admiring the tenacity of those who endured them.
Brief Summary
Bataan Survivor is the personal memoir of Colonel David L. Hardee, drafted soon after his release from Japanese captivity in World War II. The account follows Hardee's experience in the Philippines, where he fought as an executive officer during the Battle of Bataan. After the American surrender, Hardee was captured and survived the Bataan Death March. He then endured years in horrendous prison camps, battling illness and witnessing the suffering of fellow POWs. Fortunately, a severe hernia prevented his transfer to Japan, ultimately allowing him to survive the war in the Philippines. This memoir offers readers an intimate glimpse into Hardee's journey through some of the darkest periods of the Pacific War.
