One Sentence Summary:
In “Behind the Lines (Corps, Vol 7)” by W.E.B. Griffin, the members of the Marine Corps face challenges and dangers as they fight in World War II and navigate complex personal relationships.
Book Genre:
Historical Fiction, Military Fiction
Main Topic of the Book:
The experiences of the Marine Corps during World War II, including battles and missions as well as personal relationships and challenges.
Key Ideas:
- The intense physical and emotional toll of being a member of the Marine Corps during World War II
- The importance of brotherhood and camaraderie among soldiers
- The intricacies of navigating personal relationships and love during war
- The impact of leadership and strategic decisions on military operations
- The impact of war on both soldiers and civilians
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
Part I: Guadalcanal
- The Marines fight through the brutal conditions of their first major battle in the Pacific, facing both military enemies and personal struggles.
- Major Ken McCoy and his men must navigate the challenges of jungle warfare and build relationships with the native islanders.
Part II: Love and War
- The relationships between McCoy, his lover Kathy, and his estranged wife Ellen are explored as the war continues to take its toll on all of them.
- The Marines are sent to fight the Japanese in Samoa, facing danger and betrayal from their own officers.
Part III: New Georgia
- The Marines are sent to New Georgia to fight the Japanese, facing harsh conditions and challenging terrain.
- McCoy leads his men through intense battles and forms a close bond with fellow officer Mike Nyland.
Part IV: The Guilt of War
- The Marines reflect on the toll that war has taken on them, and must face the aftermath of their actions in battle.
- The death of one of their own leads to intense guilt and questioning of the morality of war.
Part V: Flanders
- The Marines are sent to Flanders to fight in the Battle of the Bulge, facing challenges and betrayals from within their own ranks.
- The war continues to take its toll on the Marines physically and emotionally.
Key Takeaways:
- War has a devastating impact on soldiers and their personal relationships
- The Marines must rely on each other for support and survival
- Military leadership and strategic decisions have a profound effect on the outcome of battles and the well-being of soldiers
- The morality and guilt of war are complex and ever-present issues
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
W.E.B. Griffin, born William Edmund Butterworth III, was a renowned American writer of military and detective fiction. He served in the U.S. Army in Germany and was a member of the Philadelphia Police Department, giving him firsthand experience in the subjects he wrote about. He had a deep understanding of military operations and history, which is reflected in his detailed and accurate depictions in his books.
Target Audience:
Fans of military and historical fiction, specifically those interested in World War II and the Marine Corps.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
“Behind the Lines (Corps, Vol 7)” was published by Putnam Adult on August 2, 1995.