Abstract
"From Boots to Iwo Jima, A Marine Corpsman's Story in Letters to his Wife 1943-1945", by Sidney L. Landau, describes vividly and in great detail daily life in boot camp and in the battle zones of Guam and Iwo Jima. The letters, discovered after more than half a century, are sometimes humorous, sometimes sad, but always loving. They show the depth of feeling of a man yearning to see his wife and son again, and the comaraderie of fellow "mates" from all walks of life, living and working together. The letters describe visits to native villages and contain sketches and photographs from Guam and Iwo Jima. Included also are pictures of souvenirs and copies of official documents."Pays homage to those who put their civilian lives on hold and risked their actual lives in combat - none more valiantly than the corpsmen who rescued and treated the wounded on the battlefield. A fascinating account." - George Rathmell, Literary Historian and Author of A Passport to Hell: The Mystery of Richard Realf
"A rarity in the field of military memoirs, successfully combining family interest with combat experiences, creating a unified chronicle." - Oscar Kraines, Military Historian and Retired Professor of Constitutional Law
"A truly great love story, interspersed with vivid descriptions of life in the Marines, in and out of battle. I felt as if I were there too, experiencing all of the writer's emotions. And with all, the author's sense of humor and eye for detail shine through brilliantly." - Lucille Small Alter, Former New York City Radio Commentator
"A story told in a most unique fashion from letters mailed home. It brought back many shared memories, both good and bad, of that period of our lives." - Robert A. Erion, Pharmacist's Mate 1st Class, 3rd battalion, 21st Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division 1944-45