The Chief of Staff

Main Themes and Topics

"The Chief of Staff" by Daniel K. R. Crosswell delves into the often-overlooked roles of staff officers in U.S. military history, with a specific focus on General Walter Bedell Smith. The book addresses the substantial impact Smith had as Chief of Staff to General Dwight D. Eisenhower. Crosswell highlights the essential contributions of Smith to Allied success during World War II and examines the broader responsibilities of the Chief of Staff role. The work explores the U.S. Army's strategies during the Mediterranean and Northwest Europe campaigns and scrutinizes the institutional and educational influences that shaped American military tactics, particularly emphasizing the effects of Smith and Eisenhower's education at Leavenworth.

Writing Style and Tone

Daniel K. R. Crosswell employs a scholarly and detailed approach in "The Chief of Staff." His writing is dense and information-rich, reflecting rigorous research. Crosswell's tone is analytical, aiming not just to narrate events but to provide deep insight into Smith's military career and broader military strategies of the time. The use of primary materials from sources like the Eisenhower Library and Combat Studies Library provides a robust foundation for the detailed accounts and analyses presented. The inclusion of maps and archival photographs also supports his descriptive narrative, adding a vivid dimension to his examinations.

Brief Summary

"The Chief of Staff" is an in-depth examination of General Walter Bedell Smith's military career, focusing on his role as Chief of Staff to General Dwight D. Eisenhower during World War II. The book offers a comprehensive study of Smith's contributions to the Allied war effort and provides insights into the U.S. Army's strategic operations in Europe. It covers Smith's career from his early days in the Indiana National Guard to significant campaigns in the Mediterranean and Northwest Europe, concluding with an epilogue detailing his post-military life. Through this focused lens, Crosswell sheds light on the critical role of staff officers in military success.

Criticism

While "The Chief of Staff" is praised for its depth of research and detailed analysis, some readers may find the writing style overly dense and complex, which may not appeal to casual readers or those new to military history. The book's academic tone and exhaustive detail demand a high level of engagement, which could be challenging for readers seeking a more accessible account of World War II events.

Awards and Recognition

Though specific awards for "The Chief of Staff" are not mentioned, the book's scholarly rigor and comprehensive approach have been acknowledged by the academic military history community. It is considered valuable supplemental reading for courses in U.S. military history and is appreciated by researchers and enthusiasts for its thorough examination of General Smith's career and the pivotal role of staff officers in World War II.