by Douglas V. Johnson II and Rolfe L. Hillman, Jr
College Station: Texas A&M University Press, 1999. Pp. xvii, 213.
Illus, maps, diagr., plans, append., notes, biblio., index. $29.95. ISBN:0-89096-893-4
Soissons,1918 provides a comprehensive account of one of the critical early battles of the AEF, in which the U.S. Army demonstrated its increasing ability to wage modern war. The book is particularly useful for its look at how the operation was set in motion, with stress on the strategic, staff, and organizational aspects of the battle. It’s rather less good at getting into the trenches and mixing things up with the troops.
Nevertheless, Soissons, 1918 is worthwhile reading for anyone interested in World War I, and certainly a necessity for anyone interested in the AEF.