My Fellow Soldiers

1. Pershing's Leadership Shaped the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF)

Only by being continually at work in positions requiring my whole thought have I been able to live during the past two years.

Unwavering Command. General John J. Pershing's firm leadership was instrumental in forging the AEF into a formidable fighting force. His insistence on maintaining an independent American identity within the Allied command structure, despite pressure from European powers, ensured that the United States played a decisive role in the war's outcome.

Discipline and Training. Pershing's emphasis on rigorous training and discipline, though sometimes perceived as harsh, prepared American soldiers for the brutal realities of trench warfare. He understood that survival depended on physical and mental fortitude, and he pushed his troops to their limits to increase their chances of success.

Strategic Vision. Pershing's strategic vision extended beyond the battlefield. He recognized the importance of logistics, supply chains, and communication networks in sustaining a large-scale military operation. His ability to build and manage these complex systems was crucial to the AEF's effectiveness.

2. The Great War Transformed American Identity and Society

America,” he had said, is “a nation that neither sits in judgment upon others nor is disturbed in her own counsels and which keeps herself fit and free to do what is honest and disinterested and truly serviceable for the peace of the world.

From Isolationism to Global Power. World War I marked a turning point in American history, propelling the United States from a position of relative isolationism to a leading role on the world stage. The war exposed the nation to new ideas, technologies, and cultures, and it challenged traditional notions of American identity.

The Homefront Mobilized. The war effort required unprecedented levels of mobilization on the home front. Industries were retooled for war production, and citizens were encouraged to conserve resources, support the troops, and buy war bonds. This collective effort fostered a sense of national unity and purpose.

Social Change and Disruption. The war also accelerated social change, particularly for women and African Americans. Women entered the workforce in large numbers, filling jobs previously held by men. African Americans served in the military, hoping to prove their patriotism and advance the cause of racial equality, though they often faced discrimination and segregation.

3. Individual Stories Illuminate the Horrors and Heroism of War

Some of the most powerful accounts don’t necessarily record the enormity of war, but demonstrate, in fact, how small—and personal—it can be.

Human Cost of Conflict. The book emphasizes the individual experiences of soldiers, nurses, ambulance drivers, and civilians, providing a visceral understanding of the war's human cost. Letters, journals, and personal accounts reveal the fear, boredom, camaraderie, and resilience of those who lived through the conflict.

Acts of Courage and Compassion. Amid the horrors of war, individuals displayed extraordinary acts of courage and compassion. Ambulance drivers risked their lives to rescue wounded soldiers, nurses provided comfort and care to the sick and dying, and soldiers forged bonds of brotherhood that transcended national and racial divides.

Psychological Trauma. The book also acknowledges the psychological toll of war, highlighting the prevalence of "shell shock" (now known as PTSD) and the long-lasting effects of trauma on veterans. The experiences of soldiers like those treated by Mary Dexter underscore the importance of mental health care for those who serve in combat.

4. American Idealism Clashed with European Realpolitik

The world must be made safe for democracy.

Wilsonian Idealism. President Woodrow Wilson's vision of a "war to end all wars" and a world "made safe for democracy" resonated with many Americans, who believed that the United States had a moral obligation to promote peace and justice around the globe. This idealism shaped the American war effort and influenced the terms of the Treaty of Versailles.

European Power Politics. However, American idealism often clashed with the more pragmatic and self-interested agendas of European powers. France and Great Britain were primarily concerned with protecting their empires, exacting revenge on Germany, and securing their own economic and political dominance.

Compromises and Disillusionment. The Treaty of Versailles, a product of these competing interests, ultimately fell short of Wilson's vision. The harsh terms imposed on Germany sowed the seeds of future conflict, and the failure of the United States to join the League of Nations weakened the organization's ability to maintain peace.

5. Technological Advancements Revolutionized Warfare

The discipline of the German people was evident at every turn. All things seemed to be done in military fashion. The army, so to speak, was the nation.

Industrialized Warfare. World War I was the first major conflict to be fought with industrialized weapons and tactics. Machine guns, poison gas, tanks, airplanes, and submarines transformed the battlefield, leading to unprecedented levels of destruction and casualties.

Trench Warfare and Stalemate. The development of trench warfare created a seemingly impenetrable defensive system, resulting in a prolonged stalemate on the Western Front. Both sides dug elaborate networks of trenches, separated by a desolate "no man's land" that was constantly swept by artillery and machine-gun fire.

Emerging Technologies. The war also spurred innovation in military technology. Airplanes evolved from reconnaissance tools to fighting machines, and tanks provided a new means of breaking through enemy lines. However, these technologies were still in their early stages of development, and their effectiveness was often limited.

6. Racism and Segregation Persisted Within the AEF

The American attitude upon the Negro question may seem a matter for discussion to many French minds. But we French are not in our province if we undertake to discuss what some call ‘prejudice.’ American opinion is unanimous on the ‘color question,’ and does not admit of any discussion.

Segregation and Discrimination. Despite their willingness to serve, African American soldiers in the AEF faced systemic racism and discrimination. They were often relegated to menial tasks, denied opportunities for advancement, and subjected to racial slurs and insults.

French Attitudes. The French, who had a more tolerant attitude toward race, were often bewildered by the American obsession with segregation. However, American military authorities pressured the French to adopt discriminatory practices, fearing that contact with black soldiers would undermine white supremacy.

Valor and Recognition. Despite these challenges, African American soldiers served with distinction in combat. The 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters, became one of the most decorated units in the AEF, earning numerous awards for their bravery and tenacity.

7. Love and Loss Intertwined with Duty and Sacrifice

I would like to live to be a thousand years old if I could spend all of that time with you.

Personal Relationships. The book explores the personal lives of soldiers and their loved ones, revealing the emotional toll of separation, uncertainty, and loss. Letters and journals provide glimpses into the hopes, fears, and dreams of those who were caught up in the war.

Sacrifice and Grief. The war demanded immense sacrifices from individuals and families. Soldiers faced the constant threat of death and injury, while those at home coped with anxiety, grief, and economic hardship. The loss of loved ones left a lasting scar on American society.

Finding Meaning in Service. Despite the hardships, many soldiers found meaning and purpose in their service. They believed they were fighting for a noble cause, defending freedom and democracy against tyranny. This sense of duty helped them endure the challenges of war and make the ultimate sacrifice.

8. The Seeds of Future Conflicts Were Sown in the Treaty of Versailles

This is not a peace. It is an armistice for twenty years.

Unresolved Issues. The Treaty of Versailles, intended to create a lasting peace, ultimately failed to address the underlying causes of the war. The harsh terms imposed on Germany, including territorial losses, economic reparations, and military restrictions, fueled resentment and instability.

Rise of Extremism. The treaty's failures created fertile ground for extremist ideologies, such as Nazism, to take root in Germany. Adolf Hitler and his followers exploited the country's wounded pride and economic woes to gain power, promising to restore Germany to its former glory.

A Cycle of Violence. The Treaty of Versailles, therefore, can be seen as a contributing factor to the outbreak of World War II. The unresolved issues and resentments it created set the stage for another global conflict, demonstrating the importance of addressing the root causes of war and pursuing just and equitable peace settlements.

Last updated: April 9, 2025