Patton: A Study in Command

by Hubert Essame

In PATTON: A STUDY IN COMMAND, Herbert Essame examines each of Patton's major battles, their place in winning the war and the principles that guided Patton's strategies and decisions. In addition, the author compares Patton with his Allied colleagues, particularly Eisenhower and Montgomery, and concludes that he outclassed them "in imagination, technique, and achievement." The portrait painted is that of a man who possessed all of the requirements of generalship. It is probable that Patton would have been pleased with Essame's professional analysis of his operational role.

Genres: History, Biography, World War II, War

280 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1974

Reviews

[Little Timmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book on this figure. the books seems to take a different outlook on his life and personality. interesting read. Recommended

[Troy Sehlinger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite the extensive historical recollection of WWII’s greatest field tactician. At times a little slow when learning the geography of Europe, however, entertaining to learn so much about an American hero.

[Elizabeth M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

George S. Patton has sparked the interest of many. His name brings admiration and dislike to those who knew him or studied him. This book provides great detail into his personality as a leader and how he was successful in leading the Third Army to victory. I would rate this 5 star, which it may be for someone who enjoys great detail in maps, geography, and strategic plans. That part of the book moved a bit slowly for me, hence the 4 star rating. However, the parts that involved his leadership, his decisions, his character, and how he was admired, respected, and honored by his men were intriguing. I think General Patton did not get the recognition he deserved. Whether you love or hate him, this is a book to read.

[Jim Holder · Rating 2 out of 5]

Couldn’t finish.

[Randy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book mostly covers Patton just before WWII and although it covers both the North African and Normandy invasions to just before the fall of Berlin, it reads more like a technical manual than a narrative history...It needs a few more "interview" voices from say the troops of the 3rd Army group who served under General Patton than from the pro-Patton voice of the author.

Well worth reading as to see the differences in point of view between the front line generals like Bradley and Patton vs. those of Eisenhower. An interesting angle also is the competitiveness of the English forces vs. the Americans!