My Experiences in the First World War

In this two volume set, America's only, "General of the Armies," John J., "Blackjack," Pershing narrates the United States' role in World War I (WWI) from his vantage point as the Commander of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF). He recounts what it was like to create an army from scratch, then equip, train, transport it overseas, and fight it in a global conflict against a battle-hardened enemy. Pershing provides insight into the difficulties of mobilizing a nation for war that are as valid today as in 1917... Historians desiring insights into the war will find Pershing a treasure trove of information...

General Pershing was, perhaps, the best person to be the Commander-In-Chief of the American Expeditionary Forces in France during World War I. He did an excellent job of co-ordinating the American forces. I have a problem in understanding his logic when it comes to the Black Americans Soldiers which he controlled. The General states that he was not a predjudist person and was in charge of the 24th Infantry (black) during the Mexican-American war. He praises their work, yet, when the 93rd Division (black), American,arrived in France; Pershing assigned them to the French Army. Pershing made the statement that Americans will not fight under another countries Flag but then gave the 93rd Division (provisional) to the French. Further on, General Pershing makes the statement that Black Americans are good soldiers as long as their are white officers leading them. There is no mention of visiting the Regiments (369th, 370th, 371st, and 372nd) during his tours of the regiments.The Generals attitude towards black officers resulted in an open field-day on all black american officers. The 92nd Division, a complete black-american division was not given its rightful respect, due awards, and training while in france.

Have you ever wanted to know what was going on behind the scenes? General John Joseph Pershing, arguably the most important figure in Europe during the later part of WWI, lets the reader get inside his head and see just that. Through his eyes we see the almost insurmountable problems that plagued the French, American, and British forces in 1917-1918 France. We feel the emotions he felt bleeding through the pages as we absorb his every thought of every battle. We see his life and times as no other writer could possible tell us. Black Jack Pershing could afford no shortcuts to victory, and he demanded perfection....when you read this book you will know, fear, and respect the man that carried the burden and hope of the world on his shoulders, and won.