THE BRAVEST TEENAGE YANKS

by Willard A. Heaps ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 1, 1963

These 13 brief biographies are concerned with the youngest of the Medal of Honor winners for their feats of heroism during the Civil War. Eight of the boys, who range in age from 12 to 18 years, were musicians -- drummers and buglers. In each case, the author has worked from the records of proof submitted by the witnesses who applied for the awards and in some cases has quoted extensively from statements made by the boys themselves. These carry a tone of simple decency and humility that cannot be matched. Usually their achievements involved risking everything for large numbers of their fellows-in-arms. Wherever possible, the author has reported on their lives after the war. The 13 boys lived out lives as solid citizens, with only three attaining celebrity above their war records -- Arthur MacArthur, Jr. (General Douglas' father) Julius Langbien (New York lawyer and politician) and Julian A. Scott (muralist.) It is to the author's credit that these three and their later achievements are given no more emphasis than that accorded to the other 10 whose courage was certainly equal. These inspiring records will appeal to tomorrow's men-at-arms. This is not distinguished writing, but the vocabulary is not difficult and the tone is neither ponderous nor hysterical.

Pub Date: April 1, 1963

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Duell, Sloan & Pearce

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1963

Categories: NONFICTION