If You Survive

From Normandy to the Battle of the Bulge to the End of World War II - One American Officer's Riveting True Story

De: George K. Wilson

Narrado por: Brian Keeler

George Wilson has garnered much acclaim for this shattering and enlightening memoir. Detailing his odyssey from July, 1944 until the following summer, If You Survive is a startling first-person account of the final year of World War II. Wilson was the only man from his original company to finish the war. As a Second Lieutenant, he went ashore at Utah Beach after the D-Day invasion amidst burned vehicles, sunken landing craft, and broken fortifications. From the breakthrough at Saint-LO, to the Battle of the Bulge, to the final push on Germany, Wilson survived ferocious battles and bitter weather. After earning several decorations and a promotion to First Lieutenant, Wilson was wounded. But he healed quickly and returned to duty.

Wilson’s account is an incredibly moving, continuous stream of devastating combat experiences that will make listeners wonder how any infantryman could have survived this war. Brian Keeler’s narration thoughtfully conveys this riveting tale of survival in the face of impossible odds.

©1987 George D. Wilson (P)2000 Recorded Books

What was it like, Grandaddy?

What made the experience of listening to If You Survive the most enjoyable?

Authenticity and clarity. You can tell by the level of detail that the author was very much there, and his clear telling lets you be there with him. This man is gifted at describing situations. You really do come away having an idea of "what it was like."

What about Brian Keeler’s performance did you like?

Keeler's voice sounds like that of an older man. It is easy to imagine that he is Wilson, that Wilson is my grandfather, and that I am listening to him tell me his war stories.

Any additional comments?

This book is easy to follow, with great balance and a natural flow: It includes emotion where appropriate, but generally it doesn't waste time with deep descriptions of the superfluous. Rather, it uses skillful, firsthand accounts of battles and tactics to "do the talking."Do get this book!

WWII experience

I always like a good WWII book because I am fascinated by how men can treat each other so badly and then sleep at night. My heart is broken for the (mostly) men who were in the thick of the battles of this horrible war. I admire George Wilson so much for his heroism and example to others. My dad and my father-in-law fought in this war and both lived to tell about it, although they didn't say much. I am grateful for those who can and do tell their stories. Hopefully we learn from them and don't repeat the stupid mistake that is war.

Great but felt some parts were vague and ...

Great but felt some parts were vague and partly filler.
Overall it was a great book.
The narrator was actually very good but only gave 3 stars as you can hear him every breath he takes in before he reads.

you will not forget this book it is memorable.

i never knew what i know now the sacrifice made we never be paid back til we all know the history

First-hand Account of Infantryman

Straightforward recounting of the realities of combat for infantryman on the front line fighting Germans following D-Day invasion. It's amazing the author lived to tell this story.