The instant classic that changed the way we saw World War II and an entire generation of Americans, from the beloved journalist whose own iconic career has lasted more than fifty years. In this magnificent testament to a nation and her people, Tom Brokaw brings to life the extraordinary stories of a generation that gave new meaning to courage, sacrifice, and honor. From military heroes to … honor.
From military heroes to community leaders to ordinary citizens, he profiles men and women who served their country with valor, then came home and transformed it: Senator Daniel Inouye, decorated at the front, fighting prejudice at home; Martha Settle Putney, one of the first black women to serve in the newly formed WACs; Charles Van Gorder, a doctor who set up a MASH-like medical facility in the middle of battle, then opened a small clinic in his hometown; Navy pilot and future president George H. W. Bush, assigned to read the mail of the enlisted men under him, who says that in doing so he “learned about life”; and many other laudable Americans.
To this generation that gave so much and asked so little, Brokaw offers eloquent tribute in true stories of everyday heroes in extraordinary times.
Praise for The Greatest Generation
“Moving . . . a tribute to the members of the World War II generation to whom we Americans and the world owe so much.”—The New York Times Book Review
“Full of wonderful, wrenching tales of a generation of heroes. Tom Brokaw reminds us what we are capable of as a people. An inspiring read for those who wish their spirits lifted.”—Colin L. Powell
“Offers welcome inspiration . . . It is impossible to read even a few of these accounts and not be touched by the book’s overarching message: We who followed this generation have lived in the midst of greatness.”—The Washington Times
“Entirely compelling.”—The Wall Street Journal
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When America had a real heart and was able to pull together to achieve greatness–that is the main theme of this book. The Greatest Generation–those who survived the Depression and WWII is an inspiration to those of us living in the 21st century. These are people who were willing to give their all for the better of the country, and willing to …
He talks a bit about the war and the heroic people. Then he dives into PC whine about Dorthy a factory worker and union goon who has it so hard making top money. He gets into race baiting etc. Typical liberal.
Brokaw has chosen a subject that is obviously close to his heart. He fills,the pages with inspirational snippets to confirm the conclusion . …this was the greatest generation.
The book gets to drag and some of the characters are not really interesting …..but real people are not generally exciting.
It is a good read and reminds us that those …
I loved it! It was very well written and gave me some interesting insights into my father’s generation
A friend recommended this book several years ago. I am glad that I finally took the time to listen to the audiobook format. It is not very long and having the author, Tom Brokaw, narrate the book makes it that much better, I feel.
In The Greatest Generation, intimate stories are shared from people whose lives were impacted by the depression and …
A great story of character….
Dull and dreary.
A few pages into this book made me realize what’s missing in today’s world
This is a story of unsung heroes who made this country great
My parents were from this generation
GOD bless them
Brought back memories .
Most young people today do not realize the sacrifices made by previous generations. The country united together for the benefit of our nation and were glad to do so. I would recommend this book especially to the younger generation. The people in this book lived in a time where there was no social media,video games or cell phones. I would recommend …
It was an in depth look at a generation that only someone who saw it first hand could share. Explains so much about the thinking and actions of the people I am connected to from that generation.
A collection of stories of veterans and their lives after the war.
was interesting but lost interest about 3/4through
A must read to understand the generation that persevered and stayed strong in a time of war and fear. Millenials need to read it to understand what it means to sacrifice rather than to be entitled.
I had been meaning to get around to reading this book for a long time. My recommendation has gone from read it whenever someday to you really need to find a copy and read this thing now.
For me it put into wonderful and enlightening perspective so many behaviors and traits I have seen among the people of the generation in the book including my …
What can I say that hasn’t already been said about this book. Its about real life super heroes who literally saved the world.
Still reading. But it is worth every award that Tom Brokaw has been given and more.
Great book
This is one of the most stirring stories out there. These men and women truly are “the greatest generation.” The bravery they exhibited amidst a hail of bullets is breathtaking. Just think of those first 25 minutes of “Saving Private Ryan,” and then pause to realize that these very real human soldiers braved that for no reason except to rescue “a …
Brokaw missed identifying the real greatest generation by one generation. My grandparents’ generation, not my parents’ generation elected Roosevelt, shackled the banksters who wrecked the world economy and we’re responsible for WWII, built a war machine to defeat Hitler, and created the social network that made this country great.