Question for Col Kingseed

[mdismert]

hello Colonel,
I hope this is a simple question. I am an avid WWII book reader. I especially prefer books written by (or directly with) WWII veterans, as I feel it is easier to trust an eye-witness battle account than most academics efforts. Sure, it's hard to remember every detail from many events from the past, but I feel the emotion and vulnerability is always genuine. And, of course, I greatly enjoyed reading your book with Maj Winters..."Beyond Band of Brothers".
SO, here's my question. I am curious as to what WWII books are on the Major's bookshelf? I am making an assumption that you've seen his books. I feel like if the Major favors a book enough to own it and display it, then it is probably an excellent book for WWII book readers to try and read.
Any thoughts or suggestions are very much appreciated. Thanks for your service and for being a link for us on the forum to Major Winters.
Izzy

[Mooch]

Izzy,
The Colonel is traveling right now. I'm sure he'll answer your questions upon his return. With that said, you may want to visit this thread: viewtopic.php?f=16&t=2176
There is an exact reproduction of the Major's office, including hs bookshelves. I'm sure you can see some of the books he liked to read.
Hang Tough,
Mooch

[mdismert]

Thanks Mooch,
That is a great picture and a good start. A heavy dose of Ambrose...with a sprinkling of C. Ryan and Kershaw et al. I am still curious if there is more...but I REALLY APPRECIATE your reply and help. There's books on there I haven't read, so this points me in the right direction! thanks again, Izzy

[ckingseed]

Thanks for the note. Will be happy to answer the question though it appears Mooch beat me to it. Major Winters has long been a fan of Stephen Ambrose and has copies of all his books. Also Cornelius Ryan's The Longest Day and A Bridge Too Far. With respect to Ambrose, you would not be surprised that Major Winters has Ambrose's World War II books. His favorite Ambrose book, however, is Comrades, in which Ambrose discusses relationships that shaped his life. Major Winters listeded to Comrades on audio tape several times and often remarked how impactful it is. Of course Ambrose has a special chapter on Easy Company in the book. Major Winters also enjoyed Pegasus Bridge, in which Ambrose examines the leadership of Major John Howard. If there is a constant theme in the books that the Major enjoyed reading, it is leadership.

At this stage of his life, Major Winters really doesn't read many books, but he always enjoys updates of what books on Easy Company are in print.

Hope this helps. Will gladly answer any additional questions when I return to the United States on Saturday. Have spent the last two weeks tracing Easy Company's trek across the Continent. Off to the Eagle's Nest in an hour.

Vr,
Colonel Kingseed

[ckingseed]

Major Winters has always been very fond of all the books written by Stephen E. Amrose, as well as the books written by other Easy Company veterans.

Vr,
Colonel Kingseed

[Mooch]

Sir,
Thanks for dropping by again and filling us in on the Major and your trek. As always Sir, it's great to hear from you. A quick FYI for you, I brought out a copy of your Carlisle presentation about the Major with me to Afghanistan and view it frequently. Your insights into the Major's leadership traits are a great touchstone and reminder of what we should try and be. I lean on them heavily here.
Semper Fi,
GySgt Mooch

[capthd]

Have spent the last two weeks tracing Easy Company's trek across the Continent. Off to the Eagle's Nest in an hour.

Now that sounds like a interesting trek. Let us know how it goes if you would Colonel.

Regards,
Steve