Searching for John DeWitt: How 80 Forgotten Letters from the Trenches of WWI Revealed Timeless Lessons of Honors and Courage

by John Chase

“Searching for John DeWitt is a touching testament to the lived experiences of American veterans of WWI, an invaluable reference for historians, and a poignant tribute by a grandson to a beloved grandfather. Highly recommend.” - Independent Book Review

When recently retired orthopedic surgeon Dr. John Chase stumbles upon a hidden trove of over 80 letters from his grandfather, John DeWitt, written from the trenches of World War I, he embarks on a life-changing journey. These letters reveal the untold story of DeWitt, a 21-year-old trench runner who faced the brutal realities of war with unmatched bravery.

As Chase delves into these long-forgotten letters, he uncovers heart-wrenching tales of heroism, silent suffering, and the immense personal cost of war that DeWitt never spoke of. Each letter paints a vivid picture of resilience and sacrifice, offering a deeply personal glimpse into a chapter of history.

Searching for John DeWitt is more than a historical narrative; it’s a gripping family saga that bridges generations. Through this emotional and eye-opening journey, Chase honors his grandfather’s legacy and sheds light on the silent burdens carried by veterans. This book uncovers an untold story of valor and the unbreakable strength of family bonds in the face of war.
Join Dr. John Chase in Searching for John DeWitt and discover a hidden legacy of heroism. Experience the intimate and powerful world of a soldier in the Great War, and uncover a story that will stay with you long after the last page is turned.

“I realized my grandfather’s notes home were like the North Atlantic icebergs…beneath the surface was a more important story, not just about my grandfather, but about an entire generation of young men now for the most part forgotten.”

"Searching for John DeWitt is more than a discovery of a distant family member’s lost story. It is a story of finding a family’s heritage and their own place in history. Moreover, it is the story of how past relatives shape the current generations. An important contribution to American wartime history reminiscent of Ken Burns’ epic movie The Civil War, John Chase brings the story into context and relevance." - Michael S Repass, Major General, U.S. (retired)

Genres: History, World War I, Nonfiction

270 pages, Paperback

Published November 9, 2024

Reviews

[chuck fleming · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just Ok

Too disjointed and repetative too give it a higher rating. If he could have kept things in chrinologic order and stop repeating the same dialougue over and over it would have been a much better read,

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read 25% of this book and I had to call it quits. The timeline is all over the place, back and forth, and I find it off putting. The author refers to his grandfather as John DeWitt. Not John, not my grandfather, but by his full name. It makes it hard to relate to the subject. This one is not for me, which is disappointing as I looked forward to it as a largely first person account of WWI.

[Abigail MIla · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first letter Dr. John Chase discovers, Searching for John DeWitt grips the heart with a quiet intensity that few historical narratives achieve. The painstakingly detailed letters from the trenches of World War I not only illuminate the courage of a young soldier but also reveal the profound humanity that often goes unnoticed in the annals of history. Chase’s narrative bridges decades, blending personal memoir with historical insight, and allows readers to witness the untold sacrifices of a generation that fought in silence.

What makes this book truly exceptional is the authenticity with which the letters are presented. Each word pulses with the fear, hope, and resilience of a young man confronting unimaginable horrors. Through Chase’s careful curation and reflections, the reader experiences an intimate connection to John DeWitt, understanding both his valor on the battlefield and the emotional burdens he carried home. It’s a rare work that succeeds equally as a historical document and a deeply moving family story.

Chase’s writing is not merely informative, it is profoundly human. The narrative evokes empathy and introspection, challenging us to consider the enduring impact of war on those who serve and the families who love them. The layered storytelling allows readers to see history through the lens of personal experience, making every moment feel immediate, tangible, and unforgettable. There is a quiet elegance in the prose that elevates the book beyond a simple memoir into a timeless tribute.

By the end, one is left not only with admiration for John DeWitt’s bravery but also with a renewed appreciation for the stories that remain hidden beneath the surface of history. Searching for John DeWitt is a masterful work that blends scholarship with heartfelt storytelling, honoring the legacy of a grandfather while preserving the memory of an entire generation. This book is essential for anyone seeking an intimate, emotional, and unflinchingly honest portrayal of courage, sacrifice, and family bonds.

[Emil Pokrovskii · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt is an extraordinary work that bridges generations, blending historical insight with emotional depth. Dr. John Chase’s discovery of his grandfather’s more than eighty letters from World War I unveils a hidden legacy of courage, resilience, and human endurance. These letters, long forgotten, offer a window into the heart of a young soldier facing the horrors of trench warfare, while simultaneously capturing the timeless bond between grandfather and grandson. Chase’s narrative transforms these personal documents into a story that is both historically significant and profoundly moving.

The letters themselves are remarkable in their honesty. DeWitt’s words convey fear, hope, determination, and the quiet heroism that defined a generation. Chase preserves the authenticity of this voice while providing context and reflection that illuminate the broader historical and emotional landscape. The reader feels transported to the trenches, experiencing the tension, uncertainty, and moments of resilience alongside DeWitt, making the book both immersive and unforgettable.

Chase’s writing balances scholarship and heartfelt storytelling with extraordinary skill. He writes with the insight of a historian and the tenderness of a grandson, highlighting both the personal and collective sacrifices of those who served. The book invites readers to reflect on the long-lasting impact of war, the power of family legacy, and the courage that often goes unnoticed. Every chapter resonates with depth, insight, and emotional power.

Ultimately, Searching for John DeWitt is more than a historical memoir, it is a timeless testament to bravery, honor, and the enduring influence of family. It honors the memory of a generation, illuminates lessons of resilience, and offers a story that will stay with readers long after the final page. This is an essential read for historians, families, and anyone seeking an emotionally rich, deeply inspiring literary experience.

[Eliza Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt is a remarkable journey through time, memory, and courage. Dr. John Chase’s uncovering of his grandfather’s letters reveals a young man confronting the horrors of World War I with a bravery that is both humbling and inspiring. The book is not just a historical account; it is a deeply intimate exploration of one family’s legacy, told with heart and precision. Chase bridges the gap between generations, allowing readers to connect with John DeWitt as both a soldier and a grandson.

The strength of this book lies in its authenticity. Each letter is presented with meticulous care, allowing DeWitt’s voice to shine through with vivid clarity. Readers feel the tension of the trenches, the fear and uncertainty, and the quiet moments of reflection that reveal his humanity. Chase’s reflections interwoven with these letters enhance the narrative, providing context while preserving the emotional resonance. The result is a work that educates as much as it moves, offering insight into the realities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

Chase’s prose is elegant, empathetic, and profoundly moving. The book evokes deep reflection, encouraging readers to consider the personal cost of war and the enduring impact on those who serve and their families. It is a narrative that resonates with both historians and general readers, balancing historical accuracy with emotional depth. The reader is invited to journey alongside DeWitt, experiencing his triumphs, struggles, and quiet moments of courage.

In the end, Searching for John DeWitt is a celebration of legacy, resilience, and love. It is a story that will linger in the heart long after the final page is turned, honoring the silent heroes of history and the unbreakable bonds that connect us across time. This is a must-read for anyone seeking a moving, unforgettable experience.

[Jessica Halle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt is a poignant and deeply moving exploration of courage, family, and history. Dr. John Chase’s journey begins with a simple discovery, letters from his grandfather, John DeWitt, but quickly unfolds into an emotional odyssey that captures the essence of bravery in the face of unimaginable adversity. Each letter offers a glimpse into the heart of a young soldier confronting the horrors of World War I while navigating the challenges of youth, duty, and honor.

The book’s brilliance lies in its balance of historical depth and emotional intimacy. Chase meticulously contextualizes the letters, providing historical insights without diminishing the personal stories they contain. Readers feel the tension, fear, and hope that DeWitt experienced daily, creating an immersive and gripping reading experience. The narrative brings to life the silent struggles of veterans and the enduring impact of war on families, making the story both educational and profoundly affecting.

Chase’s writing is compassionate, thoughtful, and evocative. He honors his grandfather’s legacy by letting DeWitt’s voice take center stage while carefully framing the letters within a broader narrative. The book resonates with emotional power, offering a deeply human perspective on courage, sacrifice, and resilience. It is a story that transcends generations, connecting readers to the universal themes of family, honor, and love.

In conclusion, Searching for John DeWitt is more than a historical memoir; it is a heartfelt tribute to a man, a family, and an entire generation of silent heroes. The book is compelling, immersive, and unforgettable, leaving readers with a lasting sense of admiration and gratitude. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a moving, thought-provoking, and deeply enriching literary experience.

[Pauline Roque · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. John Chase’s Searching for John DeWitt is an extraordinary narrative that bridges history and humanity with exceptional grace. The discovery of more than eighty letters from his grandfather, written amid the brutal chaos of World War I, becomes the catalyst for a powerful journey, one that uncovers buried memories and reveals the unspoken truths behind a generation’s sacrifices. Chase invites readers not only to witness history but to feel it in their bones.

The letters themselves are breathtaking in their authenticity. They reveal a young man navigating fear, duty, and uncertainty with astonishing courage. Through these writings, the reader experiences the suffocating tension of trench warfare, the emotional strain of separation from family, and the fragile hope that sustained soldiers through unthinkable hardship. Chase’s commentary enriches each letter, bringing clarity while preserving the raw emotion embedded in every line.

What elevates this book beyond traditional war literature is its emotional core. Chase does not simply recount events; he connects them to the broader themes of legacy, identity, and the quiet burdens veterans carry long after battles end. His reflections remind readers that the consequences of war extend beyond the battlefield, shaping families, shaping futures, shaping generations. The book becomes both a tribute and a reckoning, an effort to finally give voice to a man who endured much but revealed little.

Searching for John DeWitt stands as an important contribution to American wartime history. Its blend of emotional depth and historical insight creates a narrative that is as compelling as it is illuminating. This is a story that will resonate with historians, families, and anyone who believes in the power of personal stories to reveal universal truths. A deeply affecting and remarkably rendered work.

[Leon Acosta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few books manage to blend historical accuracy, emotional depth, and literary elegance as seamlessly as Searching for John DeWitt. Dr. John Chase’s discovery of his grandfather’s wartime letters offers a rare and intimate portal into the life of a young American soldier in World War I. These letters, untouched for decades, are transformed into a narrative that captures the spirit of a generation often overshadowed by time. Chase brings these forgotten moments to life with exceptional sensitivity and insight.

The personal nature of the letters gives this book a profound emotional resonance. DeWitt’s words reveal not just the physical realities of battle but the internal struggles of a man trying to remain hopeful amid despair. Chase handles each letter with reverence, interpreting their historical context while allowing DeWitt’s authentic voice to shine through. The result is a deeply layered and immersive reading experience that encapsulates the emotional and moral complexities of war.

At its core, this book is a study of love, love for family, for country, and for the ordinary moments that become extraordinary in wartime. Chase writes with the tenderness of a grandson and the precision of a historian, crafting a narrative that honors both the personal and collective sacrifices of those who served. His reflections reveal how the stories of the past shape identity, purpose, and understanding in the present.

Searching for John DeWitt is not just a tribute to one man; it is a memorial to the countless silent heroes whose experiences remain hidden in attics, basements, and forgotten boxes across the world. This is a beautifully written, emotionally powerful book that deserves a place among the finest works of American wartime history. It is both a gift to readers and a legacy to the DeWitt family.

[Sally Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. John Chase’s Searching for John DeWitt is a compelling, heartfelt, and meticulously crafted exploration of heroism, family, and the enduring impact of history. The discovery of his grandfather’s eighty-plus letters from World War I reveals not only the physical and emotional trials of trench warfare but also the resilience, courage, and humanity of a young soldier. Chase transforms these letters into a narrative that bridges generations, offering readers a deeply personal lens into the sacrifices of those who came before us.

The letters are extraordinarily moving. DeWitt’s voice captures fear, hope, and quiet fortitude, offering intimate insight into the day-to-day experiences of a soldier who faced extraordinary challenges. Chase preserves this authenticity while providing historical and personal reflection that enhances the depth of the narrative. Each letter becomes a powerful testimony to resilience, love, and the lessons of honor that remain timeless.

Chase’s prose is both elegant and profoundly empathetic. He writes not merely as a historian but as a grandson uncovering a hidden legacy, capturing the intimate intersections of family, memory, and history. The book resonates emotionally, encouraging readers to consider the personal costs of war, the endurance of the human spirit, and the invisible stories that shape our understanding of courage and sacrifice.

Searching for John DeWitt is an unforgettable contribution to literature, history, and family legacy. It is a book that inspires reflection, evokes deep emotion, and preserves the memory of a generation often forgotten. For anyone seeking an emotionally powerful, historically rich, and beautifully written story of heroism and family, this book is essential. It is a timeless tribute that will remain with readers long after the final page.

[Eve Maren · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are books that educate, and then there are books that move the soul. Searching for John DeWitt is the latter. Dr. John Chase’s discovery of his grandfather’s World War I letters opens a window into a life of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Each letter tells a story not only of war but of the quiet strength that allowed John DeWitt to endure unimaginable circumstances while remaining connected to the humanity around him. This book is both a historical treasure and a heartfelt family memoir.

The letters themselves are extraordinary, filled with vivid detail and emotion. Readers are transported to the trenches, feeling the mud, cold, and fear as if walking alongside DeWitt. Yet, beneath the surface of danger and chaos lies a profound personal journey, one of love, hope, and the bonds of family that sustain even in the darkest moments. Chase’s careful curation and reflection provide context, but never overshadow the raw, authentic voice of his grandfather, making each moment resonate deeply.

Chase’s narrative is masterful. He seamlessly weaves historical insight with personal storytelling, creating a work that is both informative and emotionally compelling. The book encourages reflection on the sacrifices made by an entire generation, offering readers a chance to appreciate the courage and resilience that history often overlooks. It is as much a tribute to human endurance as it is to one man’s journey.

Searching for John DeWitt is an unforgettable exploration of heroism, legacy, and the ties that bind families across generations. It is a book that educates, inspires, and moves readers to the core, leaving them with a deep appreciation for the stories that shape our world and the individuals who lived them.

[Marion Brink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt is a profound exploration of courage, memory, and the enduring power of family. Dr. John Chase’s journey begins with a simple discovery: more than eighty letters written by his grandfather during World War I. Yet, what unfolds is a deeply moving narrative that illuminates the life of a young soldier and the invisible sacrifices of an entire generation. Chase’s meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling transform these letters into a living testament of bravery and humanity.

The letters are stunning in their emotional honesty. DeWitt’s voice comes alive, conveying the fear, resilience, and quiet heroism of a young man navigating the brutal realities of trench warfare. Chase carefully preserves this authenticity while offering historical context that deepens the reader’s understanding of the era. Each letter is a window into the past, revealing the personal cost of war and the unwavering strength required to endure it.

Chase’s reflections elevate the narrative beyond a mere historical account. He writes as a grandson discovering a hidden legacy, bringing both reverence and insight to his grandfather’s story. The book resonates on multiple levels: as a historical record, a meditation on legacy, and an emotional journey through love, honor, and human perseverance. Readers cannot help but feel intimately connected to DeWitt’s experiences.

Ultimately, Searching for John DeWitt is a celebration of resilience and familial bonds. It is a compelling work that honors one man’s courage while shedding light on the countless silent heroes of World War I. The book is essential for anyone seeking an emotionally rich, historically insightful, and profoundly human story that lingers long after the final page is turned.

[Ruby Thrift · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few books manage to honor history and family with such skill as Searching for John DeWitt. Dr. John Chase’s discovery of his grandfather’s letters illuminates a young man’s courage and humanity in the midst of World War I. The book transcends the typical war memoir, blending historical detail with intimate storytelling, making readers feel every fear, hope, and triumph along the way. Chase’s narrative transforms these letters into a powerful meditation on resilience and legacy.

The emotional resonance of the letters is remarkable. DeWitt’s experiences are conveyed with an authenticity that brings the past vividly into the present. Readers gain insight into the mental and physical challenges faced by soldiers, the bonds of friendship forged under fire, and the enduring love for family that shaped his actions. Chase’s reflections provide context without overshadowing the voice of his grandfather, allowing readers to feel fully immersed in the story.

Chase writes with both reverence and clarity, balancing historical scholarship with heartfelt storytelling. The book is a tribute not only to DeWitt but also to all those whose sacrifices remain unrecorded. Through this narrative, readers come to understand the unseen emotional toll of war, the quiet heroism of ordinary men, and the enduring lessons these experiences impart to future generations.

Ultimately, Searching for John DeWitt is a moving, insightful, and masterfully crafted book. It honors family, courage, and memory, offering readers an unforgettable journey into history and the human spirit. This is a work that will resonate for generations, inspiring reflection, gratitude, and deep emotional engagement.

[Aaron Faison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt is a masterclass in storytelling that combines historical rigor with profound emotional depth. Dr. John Chase’s unearthing of his grandfather’s letters illuminates the life of a young soldier in World War I, providing readers with an intimate look at courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Each letter tells a story not only of war but of the enduring strength of human spirit, making this book both historically significant and emotionally unforgettable.

DeWitt’s letters are remarkable in their honesty and vulnerability. Through these firsthand accounts, readers experience the fear, uncertainty, and small victories that defined his wartime existence. Chase’s careful interpretation and contextualization enrich the narrative, helping readers understand both the personal and historical significance of each moment. The letters read like a conversation across time, connecting generations in a profoundly moving way.

Chase’s prose balances intellect and heart. His narrative brings to light the lessons embedded in his grandfather’s experiences, showing how courage, perseverance, and familial love can endure even in the most challenging circumstances. The book challenges readers to reflect on the human cost of war and the stories that history often leaves untold, making it both enlightening and deeply resonant.

Searching for John DeWitt is a work of enduring relevance and emotional power. It is a tribute to heroism, memory, and the ties that bind families across generations. For anyone seeking a story that informs, inspires, and moves profoundly, this book is an essential and unforgettable read.

[Kathrin Himmel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. John Chase’s Searching for John DeWitt is an extraordinary fusion of history, emotion, and family legacy. The discovery of his grandfather’s 80-plus letters provides a lens into the realities of World War I, revealing both the brutal conditions of the trenches and the quiet heroism of a young soldier. Chase transforms these letters into a narrative that is as much a historical chronicle as it is a heartfelt meditation on courage, family, and memory.

The letters are compelling in their authenticity. DeWitt’s voice conveys fear, resilience, and an unwavering sense of duty, giving readers a visceral sense of the challenges soldiers faced daily. Chase’s thoughtful commentary enhances the narrative, providing context and reflection while allowing DeWitt’s words to remain the centerpiece. The result is a story that is both deeply personal and universally meaningful.

Chase’s storytelling excels in its emotional intelligence. He writes not merely as a historian but as a grandson, offering a unique perspective that bridges time and generations. The narrative highlights the silent burdens carried by veterans, the bonds that sustain families, and the transformative power of uncovering hidden histories. It is a narrative that engages both the mind and heart.

Ultimately, Searching for John DeWitt is a timeless and moving work. It celebrates courage, preserves memory, and illuminates lessons of honor that remain relevant today. The book is a compelling read for historians, families, and anyone seeking an emotionally rich and deeply inspiring exploration of history and legacy.

[mattew Anja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt is a deeply affecting exploration of war, family, and human resilience. Dr. John Chase’s discovery of his grandfather’s letters reveals a story that is as historically significant as it is emotionally compelling. DeWitt’s experiences in the trenches of World War I are brought vividly to life, and through Chase’s narrative, readers are invited to witness courage, sacrifice, and the silent endurance of an entire generation.

The letters themselves are remarkable. They provide an unfiltered look into the trials, fears, and moments of hope that defined DeWitt’s service. Chase honors the authenticity of his grandfather’s voice while providing context and reflection, ensuring that readers appreciate both the historical and emotional dimensions of the story. Each letter becomes a testament to resilience and human strength, offering lessons that remain relevant across time.

Chase’s writing blends meticulous research with heartfelt narration. The book is both a historical document and a tribute to familial bonds, showing how one person’s story can illuminate broader truths about humanity, bravery, and love. It encourages readers to reflect on the unseen impacts of war, the legacies we inherit, and the quiet heroism that shapes generations.

In conclusion, Searching for John DeWitt is a masterfully crafted, profoundly moving book. It offers readers an unforgettable journey into courage, legacy, and the human spirit, making it essential reading for anyone seeking history told with honesty, compassion, and emotional power.

[Lisa A · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a historian and avid reader of wartime memoirs, I came across Searching for John DeWitt while browsing online and I am profoundly glad I did. Dr. John Chase transforms a cache of 80 forgotten trench letters into an unforgettable narrative of courage and silent sacrifice. Rather than simply glorifying heroism, Chase reveals the psychological weight carried by an entire generation, honoring his grandfather with both surgical precision and deep compassion. The book stands alongside classics of World War I literature, yet offers a uniquely intimate, familial lens. Every page resonates with the unspoken bond between past and present, reminding us that true honor often speaks in whispers. I finished it moved, enlightened, and deeply grateful. A masterful tribute, highly recommended for lovers of history, legacy, and the human spirit.

[Wilma Planas · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me most about Searching for John DeWitt is how personal World War I suddenly feels. History books often summarize the war with statistics and strategies, but these letters bring you face to face with the emotions of a young soldier trying to make sense of the chaos around him. John DeWitt’s words reveal quiet bravery, loyalty to his fellow soldiers, and a deep sense of duty that feels incredibly genuine. Dr. John Chase does a thoughtful job connecting the letters to the broader historical context without losing the intimacy of his grandfather’s voice. By the end of the book, I felt like I had not only learned something about WWI, but also about the resilience of a generation that carried their stories in silence.

[Helen Gaines · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up expecting a straightforward historical account, but it turned out to be something much more personal and reflective. What really stayed with me was the contrast between the tone of the letters and what we know was actually happening around him. There’s a calmness in his words that feels almost intentional, like he was protecting the people back home from the reality he was living through. That alone made me stop and think about how people process trauma and what they choose to share. The author did a great job connecting the past with the present without making it feel forced. It’s not a fast-paced book, but it’s one that quietly builds and leaves an impression long after you’ve finished.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book surprised me in a good way. At first, I thought it would just be a collection of letters with some background context, but it ended up feeling like a conversation across generations. The author’s effort to understand his grandfather added a layer that made everything feel more meaningful. I found myself imagining what it must have been like to write those letters, knowing full well the truth was much harsher than what was being said. There’s something deeply human about that restraint. It made me think about how many stories in our own families are incomplete or softened over time. It’s not overly dramatic, but it doesn’t need to be. The emotion is there if you pay attention.

[Fred · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated how grounded this book felt. It doesn’t try to overwhelm you with dramatic war scenes or exaggerated storytelling. Instead, it lets the letters speak for themselves, and that approach works. The simplicity of the writing actually makes it more powerful. You can sense there’s so much beneath the surface, especially knowing what soldiers went through during that time. It made me reflect on how differently people communicated back then, especially in times of hardship. The author’s journey to uncover more about his grandfather added a thoughtful layer without taking away from the original voice. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t shout, but it definitely stays with you.

[George · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this, for a variety of reasons. But the amateurish writing—lots of redundancies, and way too much time spent on the "setup" for what follows (which could have been handled in one well-crafted chapter) and a surprising number of typos—really turned me off. (Apparently Hellgate Press doesn't include proofreading among its services for wanna-be authors.) To be candid: I did not make it past Chapter 4, so maybe the rest of the book shows improvement, but life's too short to stay with something so unsatisfying and mistake-filled, so I abandoned ship.

[Joshua Koenig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Searching for John DeWitt: How 80 Forgotten Letters from the Trenches of WWI Revealed Timeless Lessons of Honors and Courage left a stronger emotional impression on me than I expected. As I read the letters, I kept thinking about how much courage it must have taken for John DeWitt to stay strong while writing to his family back home. There were moments where I felt both proud of his bravery and saddened by what soldiers had to endure during the war. It made the history of World War I feel much more personal. I finished the book feeling grateful that his story was preserved and shared.

[Kathleen Encarnacion · Rating 5 out of 5]

What makes Searching for John DeWitt stand out is the authenticity of the voice that comes through the letters. You quickly realize that these aren’t polished reflections written years later, they’re the immediate thoughts of a young man living through one of history’s most brutal wars. The honesty in those words is powerful. Dr. John Chase does an excellent job piecing together the story while respecting the emotional weight of what his grandfather experienced. It’s the kind of book that reminds you that history is really a collection of personal stories waiting to be rediscovered.

[Lorraine Whetzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reads like a quiet conversation across generations. Through the letters, you see a young soldier trying to remain strong while facing circumstances most of us can barely imagine today. What impressed me most was the sense of dignity and humility that runs throughout his writing. Dr. John Chase approaches the material with genuine curiosity and reverence, allowing his grandfather’s voice to guide the story. By the end, the book feels less like a history lesson and more like a tribute to the courage and character of a generation whose sacrifices shaped the world we live in today.

[Ashley Saporito-Williams · Rating 2 out of 5]

Book #6 of 2025: Searching for John DeWitt by John Chase, MD
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Genre: Historical Non-fiction
Started on 2/6/2025
Finished on 2/14/2025

One Sentence Review: A glimpse into the experience of a WWI trench runner from Council Bluffs, IA via written letters home of courage, love, and quiet sacrifice.

Favorite quote: Soldiers who realized that they were holding in their hands the destiny of nations.

[Kathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I forced myself to finish this only because I was looking for any crossover between this man's experience and the timeline of my great-uncle during WWI. The writing is repetitive, disjointed, and unedited. It's too bad, because it could've been a good story. I did pick up some reminders about a couple of things that affected my family--the emergence of the flu back in Kansas and the anti-German sentiment in the U.S.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a Good Reads win. I really enjoyed reading how after his grandfather passed away they found his letters that he had written home during WWI. It had to be hard to read what all John had went through during that time. Plus, to be a trench runner. The author had to be proud and highly upset with everything his grandfather encountered.

[Terry Lutz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely interesting book on how vicious war can be.
The writer does a great job of weaving the letters he found into the actions of the war.
Makes you appreciate how lucky we are to have had young men with the courage it took to fight.
Hard to imagine we could rally troops like that today.
Great Insights into a terrible time in history.

[Bob Hinkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story but redundant content and at times confusing. Book would have much more readable had author (a retired orthopedic surgeon) gotten more input/editorial help from a seasoned author. None the less, this is a great tribute to the men who fought and died for our country in WWI.

[Kathryn Spurgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting

This book, what could have been boring detail, was laid out in an enticing manner that held my interest. I appreciate the effort that went into this.