Quick Take

Sgt. Don Malarkey takes us not only into the battles fought from Normandy to Germany, but into the heart and mind of a soldier who beat the odds to become an elite paratrooper, and lost his best friend during the nightmarish engagement at Bastogne. Drafted in 1942, Malarkey arrived at Camp Toccoa in Georgia and was one of the one in six soldiers who earned their Eagle wings. He went to England in 1943 to provide cover on the ground for the largest amphibious military attack in history: Operation Overlord.In the darkness of D-day morning, Malarkey parachuted into France and within days was awarded a Bronze Star for his heroism in battle. He fought for twenty-three days in Normandy, nearly eighty in Holland, thirty-nine in Bastogne, and nearly thirty more in and near Haugenau, France, and the Ruhr pocket in Germany.This is his dramatic tale of those bloody days fighting his way from the shores of France to the heartland of Germany, and the epic story of how an adventurous kid from Oregon became a leader of men.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Easy Company Soldier: The Legendary Battles of a Sergeant from World War II's "Band of Brothers"

Introduction

"Easy Company Soldier: The Legendary Battles of a Sergeant from World War II's 'Band of Brothers'" is a captivating memoir by Technical Sergeant Donald G. Malarkey, a former non-commissioned officer with Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army during World War II. Malarkey shares his extraordinary experiences as an elite paratrooper and provides an intimate look into the heart and mind of a soldier who fought in some of the most significant battles of the war. This book offers readers a unique perspective on the horrors of war and the bonds that form among soldiers in the face of adversity.

About Don Malarkey

Don Malarkey, born in Oregon, was drafted into the Army in 1942 and arrived at Camp Toccoa in Georgia. He was one of the one in six soldiers who earned their Eagle wings and went on to participate in some of the most significant battles of World War II. Malarkey's service is well-documented in "Easy Company Soldier," and he is also known for his role in the HBO miniseries "Band of Brothers," which brought his story to a wider audience. His autobiography provides readers with a glimpse into the life of a soldier who fought for his country and endured incredible hardships during a significant portion of the 1940s.

Analysis of Views

Honest and Personal Account: Readers appreciate the honest and personal account provided by Don Malarkey. They find his story to be a fascinating insight into the incredible and horrible time in recent history. Malarkey's ability to share his experiences, including his heroism and courage, as well as his youth devoted to soldiering, is highly praised.
Hollywood vs. Reality: Some readers point out that the book offers a mix of actual battle details and Malarkey's personal perspective on events. They appreciate the contrast between the Hollywood treatment of "Band of Brothers" and the real-life experiences described in the book. This provides readers with a more nuanced understanding of the events and highlights the differences between fiction and reality.
Emotional Impact: Many readers find the book emotionally impactful, particularly when it comes to Malarkey's relationship with Warren "Skip" Muck. The bond between these two friends is explored in depth, and readers are moved by Malarkey's account of Muck's death and his struggle to cope with the loss over the years.
Perspective on War: The book offers readers a deeper understanding of the emotional toll of war, including both physical and emotional scars. Malarkey acknowledges the horrors he witnessed and experienced, providing readers with a more realistic portrayal of war than they may have encountered in other memoirs or historical accounts.
High Recommendation: Overall, readers highly recommend "Easy Company Soldier" as a must-read for those interested in World War II history or seeking a personal account of war from an ordinary soldier's perspective. The book's combination of historical accuracy, emotional depth, and engaging storytelling make it a standout among other memoirs of the era.

Conclusion

"Easy Company Soldier: The Legendary Battles of a Sergeant from World War II's 'Band of Brothers'" is an exceptional memoir that offers readers a rare glimpse into the life of an ordinary soldier who became an elite paratrooper during World War II. Don Malarkey's story is both inspiring and heartbreaking, showcasing the bravery and resilience of those who fought for their country during one of history's darkest periods. With its honest account of battle details and personal insights into the emotional toll of war, this book stands out among other memoirs of the era. Whether you are a fan of "Band of Brothers" or simply interested in World War II history, "Easy Company Soldier" is highly recommended for its ability to captivate readers and provide a deeper understanding of the human experience during wartime.