Why We Fight ~ 1944

Dr. Roger Cirillo joins me again in this episode to talk about the preparations for Operation Market Garden, as well as an overview of the operation. This episode complements the next episode will include a closer look from the perspective of the 82d Airborne Division. Roger mentions several other events and concepts for which there are related episodes so I will link to those below.LinksLSCO, MDMP, Finite Resources, and Planning for Week 2 (Apple) (Spotify)The Battle of Cherbourg (Apple) (Spotify)The Red Ball Express (Apple) (Spotify)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Troy Lewis returns to share the story of the Battle of Noemfoor, with Operation Cyclone involving the 158th Regimental Combat Team of the Arizona Army National Guard, and Operation Table Tennis involving the 503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment, which belongs to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, based at Vicenza, Italy today. The Battle of Noemfoor Island is one of the Virtual Staff Rides offered by the Army's Staff Ride Team, located at Army University Press within the Combat Studies Institute.Links Noemfoor Virtual Staff Ride – Army University Press CombatStudies Institute Staff Ride Team (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Staff-Rides/Virtual-Staff-Ride/Noemfoor-VSR/)Staff Ride Walk Book: Battle of Noemfoor Island, 2 JUL – 31 AUG 1944 (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Portals/7/educational-services/staff-rides/VSR/Noemfoor-VSR/2.%20Noemfoor%20Instructor%20Notes%20(Exportable)%20-%2028%20August%202024.pdf) US Army in World War II, The War in the Pacific (GreenBooks)The Approach to the Philippines by Robert Ross SmithChapter 17: Operations on Noemfoor Island(https://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/USA/USA-P-Approach/USA-P-Approach-17.html) Multi-Domain Battle in the Southwest Pacific Theater of World War II by Christopher M. Rein (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Portals/7/combat-studies-institute/csi-books/multi-domain-battle-in-the-southwest-pacific-theater-of-world-war-II.pdf) US Army Center of Military History – New Guinea 24 JAN 1943 – 31 DEC 1944 by Edward J. Drea (https://history.army.mil/Portals/143/Images/Publications/Publication%20By%20Title%20Images/C%20Img/campaigns-wwii/pdf/24.pdf)Noemfoor Island, Dutch New Guinea – Australian War Memorial (https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/OG1237)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (⁠https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks⁠)

Returning to talk US Army Air Force Fighters in Europe is Dr. Graham Cross, senior lecturer in American History at the Manchester Metropolitan University. If you missed the 1943 episode on US AAF Fighters, I will link it below, but Graham does include a bit of recap here and there when the comparison between 1943 and 1944 is necessary to understand the bigger picture.LinksFighters Over Europe: Attritional Warfare and the Americanization of the Air War in 1943 ​Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fighters-over-europe-attritional-warfare-and/id1558636084?i=1000637292734 ​Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Oky2TII3Szr5sJ5fP3X2f?si=wvE1-_znQMSUBE7WUxtz-wThe Wings of Democracy: The Influence of Air Power on the Roosevelt Administration 1933-1941 by Jeffery S. Underwood (https://www.amazon.com/Wings-Democracy-Administration-Williams-Ford-University/dp/0890963886/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3536RMETOY5RU&keywords=the+wings+of+democracy&qid=1701545518&sprefix=the+wings+of+democracy%2Caps%2C492&sr=8-1) Global Mission by Henry Harley "Hap" Arnold (https://www.amazon.com/Global-Mission-Military-Classics-Harley/dp/0830640045/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1701545606&sr=8-2)Uniting Against the Reich: The American Air War in Europe (https://www.amazon.com/Uniting-against-Reich-American-Aviation-ebook/dp/B0BNWH7VM9/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12FBIQVTQCTSX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.S2vfDtzRETrY7_DXeR4l9Q.wlqWbxFgY8IKQ5S67P0tSFcEcB63_HxVlPltYXibkj4&dib_tag=se&keywords=luke+truxal&qid=1745770194&sprefix=luke+truxal%2Caps%2C448&sr=8-1)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Returning to continue the story of Bougainville from the 1943 series is Troy Lewis, US Army veteran and part of the Army University Press Combat Studies Institute Staff Ride Team. Troy picks up with a brief recap from the previous episode and takes us through the end of the fighting to when the island is handed off to the Australians. LinksOperation Cherryblossom & The US Army at Bougainville in 1943 (Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/78tcDYYqfqBqUHjP3tEHQy)(Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-cherryblossom-the-us-army-at-bougainville-1943/id1558636084?i=1000642074493) Staff Ride Walk Book: Japanese Counterattacks on Bougainville Island, 8-25 MAR 1944 (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Portals/7/educational-services/staff-rides/VSR/Bougainville/Bougainville%20Instructor%20Notes%20(Exportable)%20-%2025%20August%202023.pdf)CSI Staff Ride Team - Bougainville: Defending the Lodgment, Virtual Staff Ride (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Staff-Rides/Virtual-Staff-Ride/Bougainville-VSR/)US Army CMH - Northern Solomons (https://history.army.mil/Portals/143/Images/Publications/Publication%20By%20Title%20Images/C%20Img/campaigns-wwii/pdf/28.pdf)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Joining me in this episode are Dr. Chris Carey and returning guest Tim Gilhool to talk about the Red Ball Express. Both Chris and Tim worked on the Army University Press film covering the Red Ball Express, and Tim is a retired Logistics Officer who currently serves as the Command Historian for CASCOM - the US Army's Combined Arms Support Command. LinksThe Red Ball Express: Past Lessons for Future Wars byChristopher Carey, PhD(https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/Military-Review/English-Edition-Archives/March-April-2021/Carey-Red-Ball-Express/) France '44: Combat Success & The Red Ball Express – ArmyUniversity Press(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6WCFwUrKrA)“Keep ‘em Rolling” African American Participation in the RedBall Express by Edna Freene Medfor and Michael Frazier(https://transportation.army.mil/history/studies/red_ball_express.html)Red Ball Express: The Road to Victory(https://www.fdmuseum.org/collection/online-exhibits/red-ball-express/)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. John McManus returns to continue the story of the US 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, which enters the fighting in France through the south during Operation Dragoon. This is one of the many stories included in Dr. McManus's book American Courage, American Carnage, which is linked below.LinksAmerican Courage, American Carnage: The 7th Infantry Regiment's Combat Experience, 1812 Through World War II by John C. McManus (https://www.amazon.com/American-Courage-Carnage-Chronicles-Experience/dp/0765320126)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. David Murphy joins me to talk about some of the many details of Operation Dragoon, the invasion of Southern France following the invasion of Normandy. Often ignored or overlooked because it was overshadowed by the Normandy Invasion, but it is still an important part of this story and it ties in with the next episode which covers the US 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division in Southern France. LinksOperation Dragoon: The Invasion of Southern France, 15 August 1944 (https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/wars-conflicts-and-operations/world-war-ii/1944/operation-dragoon.html)First to the Rhine: The 6th Army Group in World War II by Harry Yeide and Mark Stout(https://www.amazon.com/-/es/First-Rhine-Army-Group-World/dp/0760331464)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Mark Reardon joins me to talk about Operation Lüttich, one of two counteroffensives the Germans launched following the Allied invasion at Normandy in the summer of 1944; the second being the Battle of the Bulge. Mark provides significant detail from his book, Victory at Mortain: Stopping Hitler's Panzer Counteroffensive, which I will link to below, and he also adds some additional insight he has gained since publishing the book. LinksVictory at Mortain: Stopping Hitler's Panzer Counteroffensive by Mark Reardon (https://www.amazon.com/Victory-Mortain-Stopping-Hitlers-Counteroffensive/dp/0700612955)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Dr. Robert Lyman joins me to talk about India, the Indian Army, and the Second World War, which is an important topic that has largely been missing from this series except for a few episodes I mention at the start of this episode and will link to below. Those three episode are with guest Christopher Kolakowski, the Director of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, who contributed stories about the Chindits, Merrill's Marauders, and the Battles of Imphal and Kohima.LinksDr. Robert Lyman (https://robertlyman.com/about/)Merrill's Marauders (https://open.spotify.com/episode/3CDZBHcffpQgzoLlTI7ZAJ?si=_HxstZfARMq7NEeojy5STQ)The Chindits & Operation THURSDAY: Long-Range Penetration Groups in the C-B-I Theater (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aPf5yOJCvsxbqLdbnE35Z?si=aXOgA4eOTba_Byod0zpk4Q)The Battles of Imphal & Kohima (https://open.spotify.com/episode/2QI6dJyTbp4Pdp8zZAiNKM?si=rKgzezw5RWy_2POUOg6yvg)A War of Empires: Japan, India, Burma & Britain 1941-45 by Robert Lyman (Amazon)Victory to Defeat: The British Army 1918-1940 by Richard Dannatt & Robert Lyman (Amazon)Japan's Last Bid for Victory: The Invasion of India 1944 by Robert Lyman(Amazon)Slim, Master of War: Burma and the Birth of Modern Warfare by Robert Lyman(Amazon)Nations in the Balance: The India-Burma Campaign DEC 1943 - AUG 1944 by Christopher Kolakowsi(Amazon)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Retired US Army Sergeant Major Michael Vining joins me in this episode to talk about the history of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Branch and Bomb Disposal during World War II. He also talks with me about his 30 year Army career in both EOD and Delta Force and some of his accomplishments as an EOD historian.LinksEOD Warrior Foundation (https://eodwarriorfoundation.org/)Retired Sergeant Major Paved Way for EOD Technicians in Elite Special Forces Unit (https://www.army.mil/article/263293/retired_sergeant_major_paved_way_for_eod_technicians_in_elite_special_forces_unit)It's A Blast! Podcast -- SGM Mike Vining: From EOD to Military Legend (https://youtu.be/5bJ30HryCEQ?si=HWur_JsXAJSn4qt3)Troop Support Supports EOD Mission as National Observance Nears -- National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day is the first Saturday in May (DLA Article)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. Bill Nance returns to talk about LTG William Simpson, the US Ninth Army, and how average but doctrinally-proficient leaders made things happen. Not everyone needs to be a Patton. This includes a look at Army Groups and those higher echelon levels of command, command relationships, and intricate coordination to ensure the US forces were able to fight effectively.LinksCommanding Professionalism: Simpson, Moore, and the Ninth US Army by Dr. William S. Nance (Amazon)Sabers Through the Reich: World War II Corps Cavalry from Normandy to the Elbe by Dr. William S. Nance and Dr. Robert M. Citino (Amazon)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel and current Command Historian for the United States Army Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM) Tim Gilhool joins me to talk about the "Arsenal of Democracy" which made it possible for the United States to keep the Allies in the fight against the Nazis and Axis forces around the world, while simultaneously arming and equipping a massive American military force that helped fight and win the Second World War.LinksThe Army Green Books (https://www.history.army.mil/html/bookshelves/collect/usaww2.html)The Blue Books(https://www.afhistory.af.mil/FAQs/Fact-Sheets/Article/458967/the-u-s-army-air-forces-in-world-war-ii/)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, I'm joined by MAJ Jason Boswell to discuss Armor Doctrine development that will ultimately impact how the US Army's Armored Forces conduct themselves and their operations in 1944. This includes talk of the Interwar Period, between the First and Second World Wars, and the late 1930s through 1941, with talk of the 1941 GHQ Maneuvers which were the main event in the beginning of this series - before it was Why We Fight, the first year was called Building an American Army. Links From Horses to Horsepower: The Mechanization and Demise of the US Cavalry, 1916-1950 by Alexander Bielakowski (Amazon) Mobility, Shock, Firepower: The Emergence of the US Army's Armor Branch, 1917-1945 by Robert S. Cameron (https://www.history.army.mil/html/books/Mobility_Shock_and_Firepower/CMH_30-23-1.pdf) The US Army GHQ Maneuvers of 1941 by Christopher Gable (https://www.history.army.mil/html/books/070/70-41-1/CMH_Pub_70-41-1.pdf) In the Presence of Soldiers: The 2nd Army Maneuvers & Other World War II Activity in Tennessee by Woody Cillin (Amazon) General Lesley J. McNair: Unsung Architect of the US Army by Dr. Mark Calhoun (Amazon) The Rise of the G.I. Army, 1940-1941: The Forgotten Story of How America Forged a Powerful Army Before Pearl Harbor by Paul Dickson (Amazon) Monschau's Lucky 38 by Jason Boswell (Amazon) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)  

In this episode, LTC Nathan Jennings joins me to talk about some of the important lessons in land warfare that were taken from the Battle of France in 1940 and how those lessons come into play by 1944. Links Maneuver and Breakthrough in 1940 France: Insights for the US Army and the Russo-Ukrainian War by LTC Nathan A. Jennings, PhD (https://www.ausa.org/publications/maneuver-and-breakthrough-1940-france-insights-us-army-and-russo-ukrainian-war) Association of the United States Army - Land Warfare Papers (https://www.ausa.org/land-warfare-papers) Fighting by Minutes: Time and the Art of War by Robert R. Leonhard (⁠https://www.amazon.com/Fighting-Minutes-Time-Art-War/dp/1974585530/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=⁠) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Joining me in this episode is Ken Campbell. Ken has a background in history and works in education. Last year he contributed to the 1943 series with a similar episode discussing two movies that were released in 1943 - This is the Army and Destination Tokyo. For the 1944 series, Ken chose Tunisian Victory and 30 Seconds Over Tokyo. Links Why We Fight ~ 1943 Episode 63: Hollywood and the American War Effort in 1943 (Apple Podcasts) (Spotify) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

This episode turned out slightly different than expected but it's a great one! Dr. Myra Miller joins me to share the story of how learning about her father's experience in World War II literally changed her life and her family's connection to this history. Dr. Miller has done some incredible work to make the history of the 83rd Infantry more accessible, as well as other work with documentaries and publications. Links Footsteps Researchers (⁠https://www.footstepsresearchers.com/founders⁠) Solder Stories Vol. I (Amazon) Soldier Stories Vol. II (Amazon) Myron H. Miller (https://db.83rdinfdivdocs.org/share/a5fad8b8-5c5d-48ba-9082-0bacfec00994) Morning Reports (https://83rdinfdivdocs.org/docs/morning-reports) 83rd Infantry Division After Action Reports (https://83rdinfdivdocs.org/units/83rd-id) 83rd Infantry Division Newspapers (https://83rdinfdivdocs.org/docs/newspapers) KINGSIZE | Lost WWII B-24 Bomber Identified After 78 Years (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaGQRsNuZ-c) SNAFO DOCS (https://www.youtube.com/SNAFUDOCS) Reveille (https://www.reveillefilm.com/about) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Dr. Mitchell Yockelson joins me to talk about the history between American General Dwight D. Eisenhower and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and how their professional relationship was clearly more than simply colleagues but far from "besties". Links Forty-Seven Days: How Pershing's Warriors Came of Age to Defeat the German Army in World War I (Amazon) Borrowed Soldiers: Americans Under British Command, 1918 (Amazon) The Paratrooper Generals: Matthew Ridgway, Maxwell Taylor, and the American Airborne from D-Day through Normandy (Amazon) MacArthur: America's General (Amazon) Dr. Mitchell Yockelson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchyockelson) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. John McManus joins me again, this time talking about the American Experience in World War II, with an emphasis on the Americans in France following the invasion of Normandy. Links Dr. John McManus (https://johncmcmanus.com/) Half American: The Heroic Story of African Americans Fighting World War II at Home and Abroad by Matthew Delmont (Amazon) The 7th Infantry Regiment - Combat in an Age of Terror: The Korean War Through the Present (https://johncmcmanus.com/books/the-7th-infantry-regiment-combat-in-an-age-of-terror-the-korean-war-through-the-present/) The Deadly Brotherhood: The American Combat Soldier in World War II (https://johncmcmanus.com/books/the-deadly-brotherhood-the-american-combat-soldier-in-world-war-ii/) Somebody Talked! The Official Podcast of the National D-Day Memorial (https://www.dday.org/someone-talked-podcast/) We Have Ways USA (https://wehavewayspod.com/episodes/) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Paul Sparrow joins me to talk about the interesting and often challenging relationship between President Franklin D. Roosevelt and General Douglas MacArthur. Paul was the Director of the FDR Museum and Library for years and he has a book that came out in 2024 on FDR which is linked below. Links Awakening the Spirit of America: FDR's War of Words with Charles Lindbergh - and the Battle to Save Democracy by Paul M. Sparrow (Amazon) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Joining me in this episode is historian Trent Hone, continuing to share stories and insight of Admiral Nimitz in the Pacific and the unique challenges he faced in trying to effectively coordinate assets and work with other commanders. In this episode, Trent brings up the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle off Samar, both of which have dedicated episodes coming up with Dr. Regina Akers from the Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), US Army veteran, historian, and author Dr. James Young, and retired US Navy LCDR Parks Stephenson. There is also an episode on Kamikaze attacks with Guy Nasuti, US Navy veteran and historian with the NHHC.LinksMastering the Art of Command: Admiral Chester W. Nimitz and Victory in the Pacific by Trent Hone (Amazon)Learning War: The Evolution of Fighting Doctrine in the US Navy, 1898 - 1945 by Trent Hone (Amazon)Major Fleet-Versus-Fleet Operation in the Pacific War, 1941 - 1945 by Milan Vego (Amazon)The Allure of Battle: A History of How Wars Have Been Won and Lost by Cathal Nolan (Amazon)The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors: The Extraordinary World War II Story of the US Navy's Finest Hour by James D. Hornfischer (Amazon)Nimitz at War: Command Leadership from Pearl Harbor to Tokyo Bay by Craig L. Symonds (Amazon)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Lt.Col. Brian Kerg joins me to talk about the Battle of Saipan in June/July 1944, and the leadership challenges that arose at the time, resulting in a Marine Corps Officer relieving an Army Officer. Links Commanding the Pacific: Marine Corps Generals in World War II by Stephen R. Taaffe (Amazon) Coral and Brass by Holland M. Smith (Amazon) Howlin Mad vs. The Army: Conflict in Command, Saipan 1944 by Harry Gailey (Amazon) New Guinea and the Marianas: March 1944 - August 1944 by Samuel Eliot Morison (Amazon) To the Marianas: War in the Central Pacific 1944 by Edwin Hoyt (Amazon) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. Grant Harward and Dr. Luke Truxal join me to continue this talk about the Jassy-Kishinev raids. Other episodes that are mentioned or connected to this one include: 1943 episode 11: Uniting Against the Reich with Dr. Luke Truxal 1943 Episode 44: Operation Tidal Wave with Dr. Luke Truxal 1943 Episode 79: Schweinfurt, Regensburg, and Operation Starkey: Inflated Numbers, Wrong Conclusions, and False Confidence with Dr. Luke Truxal 1943 Episode 80: The Luftwaffe's Aerial Defense Over Germany with Dr. Rich Muller 1943 Episode 82: Black Week -- October 1943: A Low Point and a Turning Point for the Strategic Bombing Campaign in Europe with Dr. John Curatola 1943 Episode 83: Fighters Over Europe: Attritional Warfare and the Americanization of the Air War in 1943 with Dr. Graham Cross 1943 Episode 88: The Kuban Bridgehead and Romania in WWII with Dr. Grant Harward 1944 Episode 6: "Big Week" -- February 1944: The US Army Air Force as a Tool of War with Dr. John Curatola Links Uniting Against the Reich: The American Air War in Europe by Dr. Luke Truxal (⁠Amazon⁠) Romania's Holy War: Soldiers, Motivation, and the Holocaust by Dr. Grant Harward (⁠Amazon⁠) Romania 1944: The Turning of Arms Against Nazi Germany by Dr. Grant Harward, Illustrated by Johnny Shumate (⁠Amazon⁠) Mother of Tanks website (⁠http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/⁠)   Bonus Content (⁠https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks⁠)

In this first of two parts, Dr. Grant Harward and Dr. Luke Truxal join me to talk about the April / May 1944 raids on Romania, in particular the First Jassy-Kishinev Offensive. Other episodes that are mentioned or connected to this one include: 1943 episode 11: Uniting Against the Reich with Dr. Luke Truxal 1943 Episode 44: Operation Tidal Wave with Dr. Luke Truxal 1943 Episode 79: Schweinfurt, Regensburg, and Operation Starkey: Inflated Numbers, Wrong Conclusions, and False Confidence with Dr. Luke Truxal 1943 Episode 80: The Luftwaffe's Aerial Defense Over Germany with Dr. Rich Muller 1943 Episode 82: Black Week -- October 1943: A Low Point and a Turning Point for the Strategic Bombing Campaign in Europe with Dr. John Curatola 1943 Episode 83: Fighters Over Europe: Attritional Warfare and the Americanization of the Air War in 1943 with Dr. Graham Cross 1943 Episode 88: The Kuban Bridgehead and Romania in WWII with Dr. Grant Harward 1944 Episode 6: "Big Week" -- February 1944: The US Army Air Force as a Tool of War with Dr. John Curatola Links Uniting Against the Reich: The American Air War in Europe by Dr. Luke Truxal (Amazon) Romania's Holy War: Soldiers, Motivation, and the Holocaust by Dr. Grant Harward (Amazon) Romania 1944: The Turning of Arms Against Nazi Germany by Dr. Grant Harward, Illustrated by Johnny Shumate (Amazon) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Brazilian Army Colonel Giorgio Pizzani joins me to talk about the Brazilian Expeditionary Force from creation through 1944 -- a special formation of 25,000 volunteers from Brazil who travel to Italy to fight alongside the Allies. This was a feat made possible by President Roosevelt and the American forces transporting the BEF, then supplying and equipping the men to enable them to contribute to the fight against the Axis in Italy. There were also 67 nurses who volunteered along with the men to travel to the European Theater and care for the wounded. This is "Part I" as the story will continue in the 1945 series. Links The 10th Mountain Division and the 1st Brazilian Expeditionary Infantry Division during Operation Encore, 1945 (https://www.moore.army.mil/infantry/magazine/issues/2022/Summer/PDF/18_Nakashima_txt.pdf) A Military Force on a Political Mission: The Brazilian Expeditionary Force in World War II (https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1600&context=etd) The Brazilian Expeditionary Force in the Battle of Monte Castello (https://www.gov.br/en/government-of-brazil/latest-news/2022/the-brazilian-expeditionary-force-in-the-battle-of-monte-castello) Skis, Samba, and Smoking Snakes: An Unlikely World War II Partnership (https://origins.osu.edu/read/skis-samba-and-smoking-snakes-unlikely-world-war-ii-partnership) North Apennines 1944-1945 (https://www.history.army.mil/brochures/nap/72-34.htm) Operation Olive (https://codenames.info/operation/olive-iii/) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Evans joins me to talk about the Military Police at Normandy and in 1944, as well as the challenges of future force structure planning and compromises. As LTC Evans explains in the episode, the MPs help extend the Commander's operational reach from the established bases of operations to the forward lines of troops through the balance of momentum, endurance, and protection. They help address the Commander's "people problems" and prevent issues from spiraling. LinksMilitary Police Operations in World War II: Extending the Division's Operational Reach (https://cgsc.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p4013coll3/id/3768/rec/1)Top MP Shares Priorities for the Force (⁠https://www.army.mil/article/277653/top_mp_shares_priorities_for_the_force⁠)Military Police (Army Lineage Series) (https://www.history.army.mil/html/books/060/60-9-1/index.html)Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Kevin Hymel joins me again to continue Patton's story in the war. In this episode, Kevin starts around the Knutsford incident and takes us to about 1 August 1944 when Patton finally get's Third Army on the Continent. Links Patton's War: An American General's Combat Leadership Volume I - NOV 1942 to JUL 1944 by Kevin Hymel (Amazon) Patton's War: An American General's Combat Leadership Volume II - AUG to DEC 1944 by Kevin Hymel (Amazon) Marshall and the Knutsford Affair (https://www.marshallfoundation.org/articles-and-features/marshall-and-the-knutsford-affair-2/) US Army Central Timeline (https://www.usarcent.army.mil/About/History/Timeline/) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Steve Snyder joins me to talk about his book SHOT DOWN: The True Story of Pilot Howard Snyder and the Crew of the B-17 Susan Ruth in which he tells of his father's experience in the Second World War. Something that set Howard apart from other aircrew members was his initial Army experience as Infantry. Links SHOT DOWN: The True Story of Pilot Howard Snyder and the Crew of the B-17 Susan Ruth by Steve Snyder (Amazon) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Dr. Kate Lemay talks about some incredible women of Normandy, risking their lives and safety to protect downed American aircrews. She also talks about the ways the French grieved the war, and how some may have hyper-focused on protecting American gravesites as a way of managing their own grief. Links Triumph of the Dead: American World War II Cemeteries, Monuments, and Diplomacy in France by Dr. Kate Clarke Lemay (https://www.uapress.ua.edu/9780817319816/triumph-of-the-dead/) (Amazon) Yvette Dubocq (https://www.francaislibres.net/liste/fiche.php?index=66221) Resistance and Liberation: France at War, 1942-1945 by Douglas Porch (Amazon) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. Cameron Zinsou joins me in this episode to talk about Charles de Gaulle and the French Resistance, to help add some depth to the series and help us better appreciate the French experience to this point in the war. This episode also compliments the next two episodes which will include talk of parts of the French Resistance. Links The Struggle for Cooperation: Liberated France and the American Military, 1944-1946 by Robert L. Fuller (Amazon link)   After D-Day: The US Army Encounters the French by Robert L. Fuller (https://www.amazon.com/After-D-Day-U-S-Encounters-French/dp/0807174955)   Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Returning in this episode is retired US Army Colonel Greg Fontenot, continuing the story of the 1st Infantry Division and the Division's participation in the post D-Day operations at Normandy and Saint-Lô. Links No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II by Greg Fontenot Diary of a Combat Infantryman by Jim Sharp Sergeant of the Guard at Nuremberg by Jim Sharp Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

In this episode, MAJ Jonathan Curran joins me to talk about the Battle of Cherbourg in June 1944 and what that meant for the US Army and the Allies at the time and going forward. There will also be about 90 minutes of bonus content associated with this episode which will be available on Patreon as soon as I have a chance to put it together into a single bonus episode.   Links   Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/)   Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Dr. Sanders Marble returns to talk about Army Doctors, Nurses, and Medics at Normandy. Links History of the Office of Medical History (https://medcoeckapwstorprd01.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/achh/HistoryoftheOfficeofMedicalHistory_12247.pdf) Army Medicine History (https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/AMDM) US Army Hospitals, Nurses, and Medical Units in the North Africa Campaign with Jessica Waszak -- Mentioned in the episode, it was the 48/128th Hospital that I couldn't recall (Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/us-army-hospitals-nurses-and-medical-units-in-the/id1558636084?i=1000612231034) (Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6mY40Q8ZJyGYok5Zhsyu67) Mother of Tanks Website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Dr. Ryan Wadle returns in this episode to talk about the US Navy in Operation Neptune — before, during, and a little after D-Day in 1944. While we don't necessarily discuss books, I'll include a few relevant links below. Links World War II: D-Day, The Invasion of Normandy (https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/research/online-documents/world-war-ii-d-day-invasion-normandy) The Invasion Fleet that Liberated Europe (https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history/2024/june/invasion-fleet-liberated-europe) D-Day: The Beaches (https://dod.defense.gov/Portals/1/features/2016/0516_dday/docs/d-day-fact-sheet-the-beaches.pdf) Mother of Tanks Website (⁠http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/⁠) Bonus Content (⁠https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks⁠)

In this episode I'm joined by retired US Coast Guard Commander Gary Thomas who offers us a taste of the many MANY contributions of the USCG to the American war effort in the Second World War including the extensive support provided by the Coast Guard for the invasion of Normandy in June 1944. Links The Long Blue Line - USCG History Blog (https://www.history.uscg.mil/Research/THE-LONG-BLUE-LINE/) U.S. Coast Guard Missions: A Historical Timeline (https://media.defense.gov/2021/Jun/04/2002735330/-1/-1/0/USCGMISSIONSTIMELINE.PDF) Chronology of Coast Guard History (https://www.history.uscg.mil/research/chronology/) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content - Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

Joining me in this this episode is Dr. Frank Blazich Jr. Frank spoke with me last year about the pontoons used to support Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily in July 1943, and here he continues this story to talk about the Rhino Ferries and Mulberries at Normandy in June 1944. Link Inventors and Innovators: Naval Lighterage and Anglo-American Success in the Amphibious Invasions of German-Occupied Europe (https://tnm.journals.yorku.ca/index.php/default/article/download/155/149) WW2TV - Project Tentacle: The Experimental Floating Airfield (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIA7Zdyg01c) Mother of Tanks website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Bonus Content on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/c/motheroftanks)

In this episode, Dr. Rob Williams joins me to talk about the US Army Airborne forces at Normandy in June 1944. Rob contributed to the 1943 series as well, with his episode linked below for those who missed it. Also linked below is Rob's upcoming book, The Airborne Mafia. Links Dispersion, Decentralization, Chaos, & LGOPs: US Army Airborne Culture & Operations in Italy 1943 The Airborne Mafia: The Paratroopers Who Shaped America's Cold War Army Mother of Tanks website Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

Continuing the Normandy 1944 coverage, in this episode I'm joined by Dr. Curtis King, retired US Army Armor Officer and current member of the Army University Press Combat Studies Institute Staff Ride Team, to talk about Utah Beach. Curt provided a PPT to accompany his episode and you can find it here, at the bottom of the Podcast notes, right above the embedded podcast episodes: http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/LinksArmy University Press Combat Studies Institute: Invasion of Normandy Virtual Staff RideWhy We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

In this episode, historian Joseph Balkoski joins me to talk about the history of the 29th Infantry Division, some challenges the Division faced before D-Day, the Division's connection to the Army Rangers, and the Division's leadership as they prepared for the Cross-Channel attack. Joe will pick this story up in a second episode to talk about the 29th Infantry Division's experiences on D-Day and in Normandy. Links Books by Joe Balkoski Omaha Beach: D-Day, June 6, 1944 From Beachhead to Brittany: The 29th Infantry Division at Brest, August - September 1944 From Brittany to the Reich: The 29th Infantry Division in Germany, September - November 1944 Our Tortured Souls: The 29th Infantry Division in the Rhineland, November - December 1944 Beyond the Beachhead: The 29th Infantry Division in Normandy Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks) Mother of Tanks website

Rounding out his 3-part coverage of the Normandy Invasion, Steve Clay returns to tell us what happened at Omaha Beach for the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division on 6 June 1944, versus the plans he discussed in the previous episode. Steve prepared a PowerPoint Presentation to go with the episode and you can find the download here, at the bottom of the Podcast notes, right above the embedded podcast episodes: http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/ Links Army University Press Combat Studies Institute: Invasion of Normandy Virtual Staff Ride No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II Blood and Sacrifice: The History of the 16th Infantry Regiment from the Civil War through the Gulf War Seven Months to D-Day: An American Regiment in Dorset Lineage and Honors Information: 16th Infantry Regiment Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

Continuing his three-episode coverage of the preparations for and execution of the invasion of Normandy, in this episode Steve Clay talks about the tactical and operational environments, the order of battle for the invasion, and the plans, including a series of assumptions made - most of which proved inaccurate. Steve will conclude this three-episode coverage in the next episode when he talks about what actually happens on D-Day 1944, with respect to the roles of the 1st Infantry Division and 16th Infantry Regiment. Steve prepared a PowerPoint Presentation to go with the episode and you can find the download here, at the bottom of the Podcast notes, right above the embedded podcast episodes: http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/ Links No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II Blood and Sacrifice: The History of the 16th Infantry Regiment from the Civil War through the Gulf War Seven Months to D-Day: An American Regiment in Dorset Lineage and Honors Information: 16th Infantry Regiment A Historical Examination of Military Records of US Army Suicide, 1819-2017 Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

This is part one of three episodes contributed to the D-Day part of the 1944 series by retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Steve Clay, who recently retired from the Staff Ride Team at the Army University Press Combat Studies Institute. Steve contributed last year in the 1943 series and has multiple contributions for 1944 starting with this episode on the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division following the Sicily Campaign when the Division moved to the UK and began training for the invasion of France. Steve prepared a PowerPoint Presentation to go with the episode and you can find the download here, at the bottom of the Podcast notes, right above the embedded podcast episodes: http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/ Links No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II Blood and Sacrifice: The History of the 16th Infantry Regiment from the Civil War through the Gulf War Seven Months to D-Day: An American Regiment in Dorset Lineage and Honors Information: 16th Infantry Regiment A Historical Examination of Military Records of US Army Suicide, 1819-2017 Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

***Language Warning*** In this episode, I'm joined by retired Sergeant Major Ken Ramos, of U.S Army W.T.F! Moments fame, to talk about the Ghost Army. This recording is actually nearly double the length, but some of our commentary got off the Ghost Army topic, though still all related, so I am releasing the full episode on Patreon for those that want to listen to "Mother of Tanks" and "The IO Guy" banter for nearly 3 hours. In the linked below, there are some of the things mentioned in the recording incase anyone wants to see what Ken is talking about when he mentions Operation Copperhead and the Monty look-alike. Links Military Deception (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_deception) Operation Copperhead (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Copperhead) M. E. Clifton James (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M._E._Clifton_James) The Ghost Army of World War II: How One Top-Secret Unit Deceived the Enemy with Inflatable Tanks, Sound Effects, and Other Audacious Fakery A Genius for Deception: How Cunning Helped the British Win Two World Wars Message Drafter by GEN Eisenhower in Case the D-Day Invasion Failed Air Force, Army Permit Wear of Uniforms Off Base (FEB 2022) U.S Army W.T.F! Moments (https://www.facebook.com/usawtfm) The IO Guy (https://twitter.com/TheIOGuy) Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

In this episode I'm joined by US Army Major Paul Hill to help talk about Military Deception (MILDEC) and other efforts leading up to D-Day in June 1944 in an effort to ensure success for the Allies. This is one of two episodes that discuss MILDEC efforts for D-Day. Links Military Deception (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_deception) The Ghost Army of World War II: How One Top-Secret Unit Deceived the Enemy with Inflatable Tanks, Sound Effects, and Other Audacious Fakery A Genius for Deception: How Cunning Helped the British Win Two World Wars Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

Returning to talk more US First Infantry Division history is retired US Army Colonel Greg Fontenot, author of No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II. In last year's 1943 series, COL Fontenot talked about the history if 1ID and their experiences in the North Africa and Sicily Campaigns before they were given orders to the UK. In this episode, COL Fontenot continues the story of the First Division, telling of their time in England preparing for D-Day, including the integration of replacements and dispelling some common myths. Links No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks)

Dr. Bill Nance joins me with some back history to help us better appreciate what we're talking about now, essentially explaining how we got the US Army we had in June 1944 going into Normandy. In the course of that discussion, there are topics of contemporary relevance too, such as Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO), the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP), the impact of finite resources, and planning for what happens in week two. Several publications are mentioned so they are linked below, and Dr. Steve Waddell is also mentioned, the guest in the preceding episode. Links Command Decisions by Kent Roberts Greenfield The 90-Division Gamble by Maurice Matloff America's First Battles 1776-1965 by Charles E. Heller and William A. Stofft (editors) Commanding Professionalism: Simpson, Moore, and the Ninth US Army by Dr. William Stuart Nance Why We Fight Bonus Content Building an American Army 1939-1941 (Saved Threads from the first series) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message

With Dr. Steve Waddell joining me, this episode includes details of the logistical needs and efforts that supported the D-Day landings and the Normandy Campaign 80 years ago in 1944. This is one of a sequence of episodes discussing the Normandy Campaign and its various aspects. Dr. Waddell mentions Cherbourg and the Mulberries, both of which have episodes coming up, and there is an episode with Dr. Bill Nance who will mention working with Dr. Waddell also. Links By Dr. Steve Waddell United States Army Logistics: The Normandy Campaign, 1944 United States Army Logistics: From the American Revolution to 9/11 By Dr. David Dworak War of Supply: World War II Allied Logistics in the Mediterranean From the Center of Military History The Organization and Role of the Army Service Forces Logistics in World War II: Final Report of the Army Service Forces United States Army Logistics: 1775-1992 Global Logistics and Strategy, 1940-1943 Global Logistics and Strategy, 1943-1945 Why We Fight Bonus Content --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message

In this episode, Niels Henkemans joins me to talk about the German preparations prior to the invasion of France in June 1944. Niels is a historian who has conducted extensive research into the Germans and the Allies at Normandy and helps fill the important gap of what the Germans were doing in the months leading up to the invasion. His books are linked below, along with a couple of books from the US Army's Center of Military History which are mentioned in the episode. Links Defending Normandy, Vol. 1A: German Chain of Command, LXXXIV A.K. & Infantry Divisions on the Contentin Defending Normandy, Vol. 1B: German Infantry Divisions on the Contentin - Part II Cross-Channel Attack Breakout and Pursuit Why We Fight - Bonus Content --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message

In this first episode of the D-Day 80 part of the Why We Fight series, Dr. Roger Cirillo joins me to talk about the planning for Operation Overlord and the invasion of northwestern France, which was initially planned for May 1944, then scheduled for 5 June and postponed a day due to weather. Roger talks about how the planning actually began years before the Allies even committed to a timeline and date for the operation. Links Ardennes-Alsace: 16 December 1944 - 25 January 1945 by Roger Cirillo (https://history.army.mil/html/books/072/72-26/CMH_Pub_72-26(75th-Anniversary).pdf) Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message

In this episode, Melissa Davis, Director of Library and Archives at The George C. Marshall Foundation, joins me to talk about General Marshall and his personal life, including a family tragedy that took place 80 years ago in 1944, less than a week before Operation Overlord commenced with D-Day. Links Follow Melissa on Twitter @MelissasLibrary The Death of LT Allen Brown (https://www.marshallfoundation.org/articles-and-features/allen-brown/) "I Was A Fair Army Wife" (https://www.marshallfoundation.org/articles-and-features/i-was-a-fair-army-wife/) Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message

Back again is Kevin Hymel to continue the story of General Patton. This time we talk about Patton's trip to England, some colorful behavior, and Willie the dog. If you missed Kevin's episode in last year's 1943 series, it's season 1 episode 47. Links Patton's War: An American General's Combat Leadership Vol. 1 Patton's War: An American General's Combat Leadership Vol. 2 Patton's Photographs: War as He Saw It Historian Kevin Hymel's Article on the 6888th Being Made into a Movie 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion "No Mail, Low Morale": The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion Why We Fight Bonus Content --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message

In this episode I'm joined by Richard and Eddie O'Sullivan to share more of the story of the 38th Irish Brigade along with their father's story of serving with this unit during the Second World War. You can follow and support Richard and Eddie on Twitter @irishbrigadeww as well as their own website, which are linked below. Links Irish Brigade: The story of the 38th (Irish) Brigade in the Second World War (https://www.irishbrigade.co.uk/) @irishbrigadeww (https://twitter.com/irishbrigadeww) MoT Website (http://www.motheroftanks.com/podcast/) Why We Fight Bonus Content (https://www.patreon.com/motheroftanks) Army University Press Podcast Dropzone (https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Podcasts/#why-we-fight) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mother-of-tanks/message