Thomas F. (hardtack) - , reviewed MacArthur Strikes Back: Decision at Buna, New Guinea 1942-1943 on + 2687 more book reviews
Another book that reveals that Douglas MacArthur wasn't the God of War. He made mistakes, often due to the poor intelligence the 'Bataan Gang' provided him. As a result, others had to suffer. Far too often it was the lowly foot soldier.
Overall, it is an excellent book depicting what happens when the high command is more concerned with looking good before their superiors, than taking the trouble to find out what the infantry was actually facing on the ground. MacArthur was notorious for this. To give the devil his due, MacArthur did face some supply problems that were later eliminated as better means of supplying the troops became available, including providing heavier armor to deal with the Japanese bunker systems.
Overall, it is an excellent book depicting what happens when the high command is more concerned with looking good before their superiors, than taking the trouble to find out what the infantry was actually facing on the ground. MacArthur was notorious for this. To give the devil his due, MacArthur did face some supply problems that were later eliminated as better means of supplying the troops became available, including providing heavier armor to deal with the Japanese bunker systems.