Guarding the Border

Main Themes and Topics

In "Guarding the Border," Jeffrey L. Patrick presents the military memoirs of Ward Loren Schrantz, providing a detailed account of a transformative period in U.S. military history. One of the central themes explored in the book is the technological and strategic evolution in the military landscape from pre–World War I to the dropping of the atomic bomb in 1945. As Schrantz narrates his experiences from 1912 to 1917, the memoir sheds light on the transition from traditional horse cavalry to more modern warfare techniques, which underscores the broader transformation of the military during this era.

Another key topic is the life of soldiers during the U.S.-Mexico border disturbances of the early twentieth century. Schrantz's account stands out for its vivid depiction of the challenges and day-to-day realities faced by soldiers. It contrasts the expectations set before soldiers and their actual behavior, providing authentic details that are often absent in official military histories.

Writing Style and Tone

Jeffrey L. Patrick, as the editor, meticulously combines three undated versions of Schrantz's memoir into a cohesive narrative. The writing style is lively and evocative, capturing the essence of a soldier's life with authenticity and depth. Patrick's editorial work ensures a seamless flow while preserving Schrantz's original voice, providing readers with both a personal and historical perspective on the era. The tone of the memoir is both informative and personal, weaving historical detail with Schrantz's subjective experiences to create a compelling read for those interested in military history.

Brief Summary

"Guarding the Border" is anchored in the unpublished memoirs of Ward Loren Schrantz, an officer who served in the U.S. Army and the Missouri National Guard. The book documents Schrantz’s service from his enlistment in 1912 through the pre–World War I years, focusing on the Missouri National Guard and the military operations along the U.S.-Mexico border during a period of significant tension. This memoir provides an insightful glimpse into the early twentieth-century soldier's experience and the military's evolution during those years. Patrick's editorial approach brings Schrantz's observations to life, making it an essential resource for those interested in the dynamics of military service and borderland history during this lesser-covered historical period.