Fields of Battle
by Brian Curtis
"Pearl Harbor, the Rose Bowl, and the Boys Who Went to War"
Popularity
4.13 / 5
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Fields of Battle by Brian Curtis
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Commanders
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Pacific
Page Count:
321
Published Date:
2016
ISBN13:
9781250059581
Description
Main Themes and Topics
Fields of Battle by Brian Curtis delves into the unexpected intersection of athletics and warfare, specifically exploring how the lives of college football players and coaches were dramatically changed by the events of World War II. The book brings to light a unique historical narrative where the worlds of sports and military service collide. Through the lens of the 1942 Rose Bowl, which was relocated from Pasadena to Duke University due to wartime fears, Curtis explores themes of camaraderie, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of young athletes-turned-soldiers. This amalgamation of sports history and military service offers a compelling exploration of how teamwork and perseverance transcend the boundaries of the playing field and the battlefield.
Writing Style and Tone
Brian Curtis employs a captivating narrative style that combines detailed historical research with vivid storytelling. His writing is both engaging and informative, providing readers with a finely balanced blend of factual accounts and emotional depth. Curtis's tone is respectful and reverent, paying homage to the bravery and sacrifice of the young men whose stories he tells. The author skillfully weaves personal anecdotes with broader historical contexts, making the book accessible to both sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Brief Summary
Fields of Battle recounts the remarkable story of the 1942 Rose Bowl, which was transferred to Duke University in response to the attack on Pearl Harbor. The narrative follows the trajectory of the participants—players and coaches—who, after this historic game, left their collegiate endeavors to join the military service. They traversed the globe, finding themselves on significant World War II battlegrounds such as Iwo Jima, Okinawa, Normandy, and the Battle of the Bulge. Throughout the book, Curtis illustrates how their experiences on the football field prepared them for the hardships and camaraderie found in military life, demonstrating the enduring power of teamwork in the face of adversity.
