by Sally Matheny
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| No Greater Valor commemorates Christmas at Bastogne |
Dr. Jerome Corsi, author of six New York Timesbest-selling books, extensively researched numerous WWII resources including military documents, personal diaries and letters. The result of his research is his latest book, No Greater Valor: The Siege of Bastogne and the Miracle That Sealed Allied Victory.”
“Battles are won by military power, but wars are won by spiritual power,” said William Arnold, the WWII US Army chief of chaplains.
Dr. Corsi, intrigued by how the Siege of Bastogne was “won by a small group of American soldiers who largely believed in God in accordance with the Judeo-Christian traditions,” wrote No Greater Valor for a number of reasons, which he shares in a lengthy but enlightening introduction. He asks, “Is it possible to make the case, even today that the faith of those who fought at Bastogne invited God to play a direct hand in how the battle turned out?” Then, Corsi sets out to make that case.
At first glance, Dr. Corsi’s analytical style may not appeal to all readers. I encourage you to press through the military terminology. After a bit, it doesn’t dominate your mind, and the story begins to reign.
Those with a military background or interest will have a better grasp of the military maneuvers mentioned. However, even civilian readers will appreciate the reality the historical accounts provide.
Factual details reveal the days leading up to the massive Christmas Eve bombing and Christmas Day attack. The words of Patton, McAuliffe, and other officers bring the reader into the battle. An occasional German officer’s account gives us an additional perspective.
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| McAuliffe and Kinnard II |
Dr. Corsi displays the superb ability to convey the frustrations of war without writing one curse word. Bravo.
It’s interesting to read from the field histories of US military historian Lt. Col. Samuel Marshall, who interviewed the 101st Airborne Division and its attached units just four days after the Siege of Bastogne ended.
Corsi also draws attention to the chaplains who served at Bastogne, particularly Lt. Col. Francis Sampson. How the chaplains inspired the troops in 1944 will offer encouragement to readers battling evil forces today.
Due to its historical accuracy, No Greater Valor should be included as a text for students. The insights on the power of faith and prayer, make it a must-read for all Christians.
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