Patton's War: An American General’s Combat Leadership, Volume 1

American Military Experience, Book 1

By: Kevin M. Hymel

Narrated by: Jim Woods

Length: 11 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

During his life, George S. Patton Jr. starred as an Olympic athlete in the 1912 Stockholm games, chased down Mexican bandits, and led tanks into battle in World War I. But he is best remembered for his exploits on the field of battle in World War II.

Patton’s War, the first of three volumes, follows the general from the beaches of Morocco, to the fields of France, right before the birth of Third Army on the continent. In highly engaging fashion, Kevin Hymel uncovers new facts, and challenges long-held beliefs about the mercurial Patton, not only by examining his relationships with his superiors and fellow generals and colonels, but also with the soldiers of all ranks whom he led. Through extensive research of soldiers’ memoirs and interviews, Hymel adds a new dimension to the telling of Patton’s WWII story.

The book is published by University of Missouri Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

©2021 The Curators of the University of Missouri (P)2022 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

“Should find a place on the bookshelf of every Pattonophile - and I’m certain that it will.” (Flint Whitlock, editor of WWII Quarterly)

"Deeply researched and well crafted, a must for readers of military history." (Mitchell Yockelson, author of The Paratrooper Generals)

"A fascinating and highly informative work that sheds new light. Highly recommended." (Joseph Balkoski, author of Omaha Beach)

Very well done and balanced story

I really enjoyed this balanced approach to the beginning of the war for General Patton. Regrettably I was disappointed that it abruptly ended on 8/1/1944

Highly Recommended

I was expecting just another hero-worshiping Patton book. Instead I found this to be an excellent, well-researched, virtually day-by- day account of Patton as combat commander. The writer gives Patton full credit for his accomplishments in Morocco, Tunisia and Sicily, while detailing his shortcomings especially where his temper threatened to ruin his relationships with his men and his superiors. Every statement is sourced from Patton’s letters and the recollections of his soldiers. The only disappointment is the abrupt end when Patton’s Third Army is activated in Normandy! I’ll be waiting for Part 2.

Detailed study, full of new details

Having read most everything written about Patton over the past half-century, I rarely read anything new on him. This book surprised me. Relying on extensive research using untapped primary sources like interviews and writings from those who served with or under Patton, the author was able to put together an intimate picture of of Patton's daily routines, activities, interactions, and relationships.

Just as refreshing, the author refrains from judgment and simply reports the plentiful facts he's uncovered, giving the reader (listener) room to learn and make their own decisions. This style of writing has unfortunately become increasingly rare, making its appearance all the more welcome.

The book is subtitled Volume 1, and ends just prior to activation of the Third US Army, leaving us in happy anticipation of a second volume covering Patton's exploits across Europe and his too-early demise. The unfortunate aspect is that if the second volume is as detailed as the current one, a few years will pass before it appears. I'll be waiting to buy it.

Highly recommended.

Reader does a very good job throughout.

GET IT!

Excellent!!! It hooked me the first chapter. I am probably going to listen to this book again to make sure I didn't miss anything!

Do not purchase

Greatly disappointed with this Author.
States many things questionable as facts.
Hit job on Patton.