Author Ronald Powers
One Man in Ten Million
The classes of 1942 and 1943 from America's high schools made up the largest percentage of the 10 million men that served in the American Armed Forces during World War II. Many were drafted, but many more freely enlisted because they felt it their patriotic duty. They did not take this decision lightly. For most it was the most fearsome decision they would ever make.
These men were citizens one moment and soldiers the next. None were professional soldiers, but they experienced the same privations, fears and terror as their professional comrades. Many displayed courage beyond imagination, but if they survived to talk about their experiences, they rarely did. My dad's generation was a generstion of gentlemen who were very humble. Their sufferings and successes were a means to an end not to be displayed as a badge of honor.
My father's story is not exceptional in its uniqueness from other soldier's stories, but is exceptional in its commonality. You will dad from his decision to enlist to his return to the country he loved including the 202 days that the 104th Infantry Regiment spent in combat-one man in ten million.
This is the new edition of my Dad's story with an added chapter. My mother decided to tell me this story after the book had been originally published. It is too good of an andecdote, picturing the raw fear men like my father experienced on a daily basis, to have been excluded from the book. I hope you enjoy the added material and can get a sense of what these men endured.
Professional Reviews
....remarkably conveys the many horrors a soldier can face in such a comparatively short time... the overall tone is one of tribute, not bleakness. A son's concise version of his father at war.
Kirkus Reviews
..more than just a standard recounting of the war...brings life to the many problems the troops suffered.
Hagerstown Magazine
...a heart breaking testament to his father's love and loyalty... One Man In Ten Million speaks truth with every word.
Red City Review
