Book Details

The Patton Papers, 1885-1940 (the second volume, covering the years 1940 to 1945, is also available from Da Capo Press) uses George S. Patton's private diaries, letters, speeches, reports, and orders to present his own uncensored view of his remarkable life. He served in the U.S. cavalry and as a member of General Pershing's Punitive Expedition against Pancho Villa in Mexico (where Patton first saw combat). His outstanding service during World War I included organizing and leading the Tank Corp in the battles of Saint-Mihiel and Meuse Argonne. From youth through the early years of World War II, here is an unparalleled portrait of Patton as man, soldier, and legend-in-the-making.