TERRIBLE TERRY ALLEN: Combat General of WWII-The Life of An American Soldier by Gerald Astor. VERY GOOD+ First Edition stated hardcover, 2003. A portrait of a highly regarded combat general. Documents his irreverent attitude regarding authority figures, ability to win the devotion of those under his command, and significant military achievements in the first and second World Wars. Failing out of West Point twice and ultimately gaining his commission through Catholic University's ROTC program, he went on to command an infantry battalion in WWI, distinguishing himself as a fearless combat leader by personally leading patrols into no-man's land. Despite a stellar combat record as commander of the First Infantry Division in WWII during the invasion of North Africa, he and his men became notorious for their lack of discipline off the battlefield. Fired by Patton, but rescued by George Marshall, who had promoted him to brigadier general at the beginning of the war, Allen again distinguished himself in combat as commander of the 104th Timberwolves in Holland. Spearheading the US First Army's advance across Germany, his division was the first American unit to link up with the Soviet Union's Red Army. Hard bitten, profane, and combative, Allen disdained the "book," but as a master of strategy, tactics, weaponry, and soldiers in combat, he knew how to wage war.

VERY GOOD+ First Edition hardcover, gently read with pages clean and unmarked. Very light soiling to edges. Binding tight. Jacket shows almost no wear to edges and corners but does show some edge curling and light scuffing. 6.25" x 9.5." Photos, maps, and text. 374 pgs.