The Last Fighting General: The Biography of Robert Tryon Frederick

by Anne Hicks

This is the full story of the legendary U.S. Army officer who formed, trained, and led the unique bi-national First Special Service Force (popularly known as the Devils Brigade). Robert T. Frederick was the youngest ground forces general, the youngest division commander, and one of the most decorated American soldiers in World War II. But Frederick was not just a warrior. Highly intelligent, he was an independent thinker who was as courageous and innovative in peacetime as he was in combat. He pioneered racial integration on army training bases, devised training regimens used throughout North America, and left a record that would seem mythical if not documented. The author also reveals why Frederick ended his brilliant career prematurely.

Genres: Biography

272 pages, Hardcover

First published March 30, 2006

Reviews

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing and highly recommended for any one, especially those interested in military history or world war II. General Frederick was one of the most highly decorated generals of the war and did it while receiving half the coverage of Patton and Montgomery.

His life and dedication to his country is inspirational. The movie "The Devil's Brigade" with William Holden, while about General Frederick, does little to show the greatness of the man.

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anne Hicks is the daughter of Robert Tryon Fredrick and writes a worthy book about dad. The downside is that it is a daughter's vision and not well cited, but the story is captivating and informative. She uses a wealth of quotations that add color to the narrative. I wish I knew where they came from! Overall, the jist of the book runs the reader clearly through the important details of Fredrick's life and service. It is insightful and a must read for anyone who wants to know more about the Force. Lastly and despite no citations, the bibiliography has a great list of documents from the Hoover Institute at Standford, the Army Military History Institute, and the National Archives.