The Matt Urban Story

Brief Summary

The Matt Urban Story is an autobiographical account by Lt. Colonel Matt Urban, a Medal of Honor recipient, chronicling his experiences and battles during World War II. The book provides a unique perspective as readers are taken onto the battlefields across three continents. Urban's narrative culminates in his final battle, which nearly cost him his life after a bullet wound to the neck. The story is arranged in a distinctive format, with action on the right-hand pages and supplementary photos and facts on the left-hand pages. This format ensures an uninterrupted reading experience while also allowing veterans to document their personal reflections in designated sections.

Main Themes and Topics

The primary themes of the book revolve around the gritty realities of warfare and leadership under fire. Urban's narrative explores the courage and sacrifice required in World War II, giving readers an intimate glimpse into the life of a soldier who faced "Do or Die" orders and "Kill or Be Killed" scenarios. Urban’s reflections extend beyond the battlefield, offering insights into strategic military operations like the Invasion of Sicily and the breakout at St. Lo in Normandy. His experiences highlight the immense collective efforts necessary for victory and suggest a broader interpretation of how these military achievements contributed to the eventual collapse of Communism.

Writing Style and Tone

Matt Urban adopts a straightforward and engaging style that makes the harrowing experiences accessible to readers. The tone is candid and reflective, capturing the raw emotions and adrenaline-fueled moments of combat. The book's format, with larger print designed for "old soldiers," caters to its intended audience, ensuring that the story remains impactful and easy to follow for readers of all ages.

Awards and Recognition

The Matt Urban Story gains additional credibility and significance through Urban’s receipt of the Medal of Honor, the highest personal military decoration awarded to recognize U.S. military service members for acts of valor. This distinction, along with his detailed personal recount, lends weight to the narrative and deepens the reader's respect for the sacrifices described within the pages.