Beyond the Stars: The Autobiography of James M. Gavin

by James M. Gavin

His is a story as unique as it is quintessentially American. Beginning life as a penniless orphan, James M. Gavin rose through the ranks of the U. S. military to become one of the Army’s commanders. Along the way he proved himself a hero and a cool-headed leader. In the plain speech that served him so well with his troops, Gavin tells the story of struggle to the top: his World War II command of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment in combat from Sicily to Normandy; his subsequent filling of Matthew Ridgeway’s outsize shoes as commander of the 82nd Airborne Division; and his postwar service as the Army’s deputy chief of staff for operations. Gavin’s story, told here for the first time, offers an on-the-ground look at the creation of NATO and the transformations brought about by the introduction of nuclear weapons. From the heroics of battle in World War II to the intricacies of leadership during the Cold War, General Gavin’s autobiography reflects a critical chapter of the history of the twentieth century.

400 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2009

About the author

Lieutenant General James Maurice "Jumpin' Jim" Gavin

US Army veteran of World War II (during which he commanded the famous 82nd Airborne Divison) and the Korean War. Ambassador to France (1961-1962).

Recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Purple Heart, Companion of the Distinguished Service Order (United Kingdom), and the Legion of Honor (France).