Author Description

To read this combined collection from the diary of Captain Henry Evans is to relive with him an important era in his life. Each page reflects his integrity, intelligence, courage and delightful sense of humor. Evans' account provides a good representative example of the experiences of a typical AEF field artillery officer appointed from civilian life. His unit, the 1st Division, participated in both the first American combat actions and was the spearhead of the AEF attack in the Argonne advance when the war ended. Evans served as a battery officer, battery commander, and liaison officer. Although his experience of direct combat was relatively limited, Evans' position in the artillery gave him a broader view of the nature of combat in the First World War. Evans' account provides a welcome and worthy perspective on the experience of a patriotic young American who was determined to help defeat the Kaiser. Chapter 1 - My Decision to Serve * Chapter 2 - Serving with the French Army * Chapter 3 - Commissioned and to the Front * Chapter 4 - Training for War * Chapter 5 - Battle at the Front * Chapter 6 - Respite from Battle * Chapter 7 - Returning to Battle * Chapter 8 - Break in Battle Cut Short by German Attack * Chapter 9 - Supporting the Scottish Black Watch Regiment * Chapter 10 - The St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne Offensives * Chapter 11 - Command of Battery B * Chapter 12 - Armistice * Chapter 13 - Occupation of Germany * Chapter 14 - Sailing Home