Bradley: A Biography

Alan Axelrod's mini-bio of Omar Bradley is a great summary of his life and career. The book, like others in the series, isn't meant to be a definitive narrative of Bradley's life, rather it's meant to provide an overview of the general's life with a focus on leadership and his contribution to the US military. (It's part of a larger "Great Generals" series.) I really enjoyed the book; glad I read it. As to whether or not Axelrod makes his argument regarding Bradley's significant contributions to the US military, I'm not so sure. Certainly Axelrod makes the case that Bradley's leadership was critical at several points in the war, and Axelrod does a good job of portraying a man who matured and grew into his increasingly senior positions. But I don't think Axelrod does a good job in linking modern doctrinal concepts to Bradley. These concepts developed so quickly and in so many places that I don't think it's possible to link them to one man. But this is minor -- if you're not too familiar with Omar Bradley, and want a quick overview of the man and the historical questions that are related to him (i.e. the Battle of the Bulge), this book will certainly get you started.

A great, concise book about a key inidvidual that changed the course of global history in World War II. Omar Bradley was an important and vital component for the Supreme Commander's toolbox in bringing about the final outcome of the war. A must read for any WWII buff.

This is an excellent BRIEF bio of one of WW IIs senior U.S. commanders. Good background on the life of one of the lesser known five-star generals. Author claims that this was beceause he was less flashy and therefore got less press than Patton, Eisenhower and LeMay. Telling sign of his abilities is that he started the war as Patton's subordinate and finished the war as Patton's commander. Bradly not only helped bring the war in Europe to a successful conclusion, but guided improvements in the Veterans Administration after the war. He became the first Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and left his mark on that organization as well. The author not only tells you who he was and what he did, but explains why the "Soldiers' General" was important to the war effort and to the future of the U.S. Army. This analysis may be more useful than the story of his early life. This is a brief, 200 page, wave-top survey of Bradly, but it is sufficient for anyone interested to get a good appreciation of the man.