Among the plethora of books about the Civil War; Company Aytch stands out for its uniquely personal view of the events as related by a most engaging writer—a man with Twain-like talents who served as a foot soldier for four long years in the Confederate army. Originally published in 1881 as a series of articles in the Columbia; Tennessee; Herald; Sam Watkins's account has long been recognized by historians as one of the most lively and witty accounts of the war. Parallels between this text and The Red Badge of Courage suggest that Stephen Crane was also among Private Watkins's readers. This edition of Company Aytch also contains six previously uncollected articles by Sam Watkins; plus other valuable supplementary materials; including a map and period illustrations; a glossary of technical and military terms; a chronology of events; a concise history of Watkins's regiment; a biographical directory of individuals mentioned in the narrative; and geographic and topical indexes. This new edition of a Civil War classic is bound to become the edition of choice for students; military buffs; and general readers alike.
#695308 in Books 2004-07-06 2004-07-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.02 x .71 x 6.03l; .82 #File Name: 0451212053336 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Excellent; well writtenBy Scott M in SCExcellent; well written; detailed book about a little-known aspect of the war in the Pacific. At the outset of the war; when all the momentum was with the Japanese and all the odds were in their favor; this small band of Marines; civilians and a few others; did what no one else ever did - repulsed a Japanese invasion attempt. In doing so; they helped the American military and public see that the Japanese were not invincible; that we did have a chance; and that our soldiers; sailors and airmen - and even civilians - could stand up to them. They gave the country hope when their had been none. The book follows their story from before the war; during the invasion; and what happened to them after. It reads quickly and easily; and is motivational; inspirational and encouraging. Highly recommended.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I landed at Wake Atoll twice during the Vietnam war ...By William D. BurdettI landed at Wake Atoll twice during the Vietnam war and neither time did I recall the impact of the battle that took place there. Recently my son in law; a marine a Marine Corp aviator landed there and; being the junior officer in the squadron; he was tasked with the job of briefing them on what happened there.By comparison to other island battles of WW II; Wake was a mere skirmish; but in terms of the impact on the morale of the morale of the American people it was gigantic. Coming the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor a hand full of Marines and contract construction workers turned back a planned Japanese landing sinking three ships in the process. Result was a tremendous boost in the morale of a nation.The story of the courage and ingenuity of the defenders isuplifting0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy EricGreat Story.