★★★★★ Five stars from readers on Amazon
What readers say
Early readers, historians, and the children of veterans on Jack’s Story, a memoir of WWII combat, resilience, and love.
“As far as giving overdue credit to the gallantry and sacrifice of the 7th Armored Division, well overdue.”
New combat memoirs of the European Theater are very welcome, and this one especially, since it concerns a tank commander in the 7th Armored Division, perhaps the most neglected major combat formation in the US Army in World War II. It is in the Bulge itself, during the defense of St. Vith, that Wilson’s account becomes both thrilling and rare. This is a terrific contribution to the literature of World War II.
Steven SmithAuthor of 2nd Armored Division: Hell on Wheels
“This is the first book I have read in its entirety in more than 20 years, and I finished it in less than a week.”
The book draws from letters written at the time, after-action reports, and the author’s conversations with his father, offering a perspective distinct from traditional memoirs. The narrative follows Jack’s journey across Europe, from training through VE Day and beyond.
James M. Sievert“A Real View of War”
“Essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the true experience of those who fought to preserve freedom.”
This memoir shines in its unflinching portrayal of the Battle of the Bulge. The pivotal moment when Jack draws his pistol on his commanding officer to prevent surrender stands among the most powerful scenes of battlefield leadership I’ve encountered. What truly elevates the book is its balance of intense combat with the letters between Jack and his wife Jean back home.
Courtney W“Raw, Riveting WWII Tank Commander’s Journey”
★★★★★
Not a hero but a Patriot
He was forced to face what many of us never are, the inhumanity and horror we are capable of when called upon to defend our way of life. One of the quiet heroes of that generation who have made us proud to be Americans.
Michael J. Monteith
May 25, 2025 · Verified Purchase
★★★★★
A tank commander at St. Vith in WW2? Good Lord!
An entire German army spearheading right toward him, driving pitch-dark single-lane roads at night in a forest, trying to find a way out from being surrounded. Read the book to find out how Jack handled this.
TallTexsun
September 10, 2025
★★★★★
An Intimate Window into a Tank Commander’s Experience
His letters reveal both the horrific choices he faced as a young commander and his tenderness and longing to return to his loving wife. As the daughter of a WWII pilot, I deeply admire the bravery of these young soldiers. It’s a compelling read.
Danna Beal
February 21, 2025
★★★★★
A treasure for descendants of WWII veterans
John’s parents left him a treasure trove, and he has done a masterful job of weaving their story into the battle timeline of his father’s service. KUDOS! A great read.
Baby Boomer
December 12, 2024
★★★★★
A must read
This was an eye opener for me. My father fought in WW2, but he never spoke of the war. The book gave me a view of how hard our military fought for our freedom, and what they saw.
Maureen B.
Amazon review
★★★★★
A must read for history and romance alike
Jack’s Story gives the reader a personal insight into what it was like to be in the Battle of the Bulge and the tough but victorious march into 1945 Germany. A great history lesson with a very personal touch.
Cindy Zammett
November 23, 2024
★★★★★
Great story!
I enjoyed reading this account of an American boy leaving home to fight for his country against the Nazi regime in WW2.
John Schlusser
September 26, 2025
Read the opening for yourself, or find the book in every format.
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