James J. Cooke Boeken

The Rainbow Division (42nd Infantry Division) was the premier National Guard division to fight on the Western Front in the Great War. Made up of units from 26 states and the District of Columbia, the Rainbow was a unique attempt to combine units from every section of the nation and to get them to France as quickly as possible. The Rainbow arrived in France in December 1917, and served in every major battle the AEF (American Expeditionary Force) participated in. After the end of the war in November 1918, the Rainbow was selected to serve in the Army of Occupation, remaining in Germany until the spring of 1919. The division counted in its leadership Douglas MacArthur, William J. Wild Bill Donovan (later known for his service as the head of the OSS in World War II and for founding the CIA), soldier-poet Joyce Kilmer, Father Francis P. Duffy, plus future secretaries of the Army and the Air Force and two who would become Army Chiefs of Staff. George S. Patton's tanks supported The Rainbow Division during the St. Mihiel operations, the first time the legendary Patton planned for the use of tanks on the battlefield.

The book delves into the challenges faced by the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) during World War I, particularly in developing an effective command and staff structure. It highlights General John J. Pershing's efforts to transform a group of inexperienced officers into capable leaders, often promoting colonels to division commanders. The narrative explores the complexities of modern combat and the strategies employed to adapt to the demands of the Western Front, providing insights into the AEF's organizational evolution and performance in the war.

The book delves into the transformation of the Army's Air Service from a single squadron of outdated aircraft in 1917 to a sophisticated network of specialized squadrons by the end of World War I. It highlights the development of various combat divisions, including air observation and balloon companies, as well as the establishment of a comprehensive supply and maintenance system. Additionally, it examines the training processes for pilots, observers, and balloonists, providing insight into the evolution of military aviation during the war.

Focusing on the 82nd division, this study explores the challenges faced by a diverse group of non-English speaking European immigrants and rural conscripts from Tennessee and North Carolina during World War I. It details their training and transformation into a formidable combat unit, highlighting their significant contributions on the front lines at St. Mihiel and the Meuse-Argonne. The narrative emphasizes their resilience and ability to succeed in complex missions despite initial obstacles, showcasing the evolution of these All-Americans in the Great War.

Focusing on the Special Services and PX System during World War II, Cooke reveals how these initiatives significantly boosted soldier morale amidst the harsh realities of global conflict. General Marshall recognized the need for improved morale services, leading to the establishment of the Special Services Division and the United Service Organizations (USO). Cooke highlights the creation of recreational facilities, affordable goods, and entertainment by well-known performers, which helped maintain soldiers' spirits and set a lasting precedent for providing comforts of home during military service.