Dad's War Photos

Main Themes and Topics

In Dad's War Photos, Neal Bertrand explores the visually rich and deeply personal journey of his father, Curtis Bertrand, a soldier in the U.S. Army during World War II. The book is primarily centered around the photographs taken by Curtis, which serve as a window into the past, capturing the raw and unfiltered experiences of a soldier in the South Pacific Theater. The main themes include the harsh realities of war, the daily life of soldiers, and the human side of military campaigns as seen through the lens of an enlisted man. Neal Bertrand presents these themes by using his father's 600 photographs, which span various significant campaigns such as the Battle for Biak Island and the Battle of Manila, along with vivid depictions of New Guinea natives and World War II airplanes with their distinctive nose art.

Writing Style and Tone

Neal Bertrand's writing style is both informative and evocative, bringing to life the experiences of his father through a combination of descriptive narrative and photographic evidence. The tone is one of reverence and commitment to accurately capturing history, providing readers with not only a visual journey but also context through excerpts from the official battalion diary. This combination ensures that readers not only see the images but also understand the stories and emotions behind them. Bertrand successfully creates an engaging and compelling story that resonates with both history enthusiasts and those with familial connections to the era.

Criticism

While Dad's War Photos is praised for its detailed photographic documentation and sincere storytelling, some readers may find the scope of the book limited due to its focus on one individual's perspective within a vast and complex war. The book's strength lies in its ability to humanize and personalize history, but it might not satisfy those looking for broader strategic analyses or comprehensive military histories. Another potential criticism could be the reproduction quality of some photographs, which might not match the clarity or sharpness expected in contemporary publications, owing to the age and condition of the original materials.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

Dad's War Photos is an intimate and historically significant portrayal of World War II as seen through the camera lens of Curtis Bertrand, a soldier in the U.S. Army. Compiled by his son Neal Bertrand, this book provides a unique visual journey through significant campaigns in the South Pacific, including New Guinea and the Philippine Islands. Accompanied by the official battalion diary and Neal's narrative, the photographs offer readers insights into military life, battles, and the cultural intersections experienced during the war. The book serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of soldiers while offering a heartfelt homage to Curtis's legacy.