Lieutenants and Light

Main Themes and Topics

In Lieutenants and Light, Robert E.C. Davis delves into a fascinating segment of military history, exploring the U.S. Army's use of the heliograph for communication in the late nineteenth century. The book meticulously details the establishment and operation of the heliograph network in the harsh desert environments of Arizona and New Mexico. This network played a critical role during the campaign against Geronimo and represents a significant technological advancement in military communication. Davis illuminates how this network not only improved logistical command and control but also influenced the careers of numerous military officers, some of whom would later serve in key positions during World War I.

Writing Style and Tone

Davis adopts a scholarly and analytical writing style, enriched with historical data and personal accounts from officers involved in the network's deployment. His tone reflects a deep respect for the subject matter, presenting the intricacies of heliograph operation and its strategic importance with clarity and precision. Despite the technical nature of the topic, Davis manages to engage the reader by interweaving individual stories and geospatial analyses, offering a comprehensive yet accessible read.

Awards and Recognition

As of the latest information available, Lieutenants and Light has not been listed as a recipient of any major literary awards. However, it has been acknowledged in academic circles for its thorough research and contribution to military history literature.

Brief Summary

Lieutenants and Light provides an in-depth historical account of the use of heliographs by the U.S. Army as a means of communication and strategic coordination in the Southwest United States. Beginning in 1882, the book traces the development of this mirror-based signaling system and highlights its pivotal role during the Geronimo campaign in 1886. The narrative follows how General Nelson A. Miles expanded the network, connecting vital locations across Arizona and New Mexico, and underscores the enduring impact of heliographs on military operations and personnel development. Davis chronicles the lives of young officers who managed these stations, many of whom achieved prominence in subsequent military and civil service roles.