Letters Home Wwii, Sergeant Martin a Paulson South Pacific 1943-1946 [first edition]

A WWII soldier's life from Private to Sergeant, basic training, ship transport, the battle of Okinawa, to the occupation of Japan through 88 letters he wrote home. Each chapter begins with a letter (88 total) along with excellent historical research on that letter. Included are hundreds of photos and illustrations which allows the reader to more deeply experience not only this soldiers WWII life, but what the world was like during this historic period. Martin was one of those soldiers who didn't talk about his WWII experiences, but at 95 held the book to his chest and emotionally thanked the author. Martin included many personal comments throughout the book giving it real time history. The reader will learn of the Okinawan orphan whom his unit, the 27th Infantry, rescued during the mopping up phase of the battle and adopting him as one of their own (picture on front cover of book). History teachers say the book should be in every high school. Historians say they have learned facts they did not know because of the letters. Some have said they understand for the first time the reason for WWII and why the world was involved. College professors have stated the short sub contexts give substance without over information making the book extremely interesting. WWII Veterans who served in the Pacific said though they remember the bad, this book brought back many good memories they had forgotten and thanked the author, stating more soldier's stories should be told. Young adults and up will enjoy reading this book.