This book is an extremely insightful way to better understand the inner workings between several important leaders both military and civilian during and after WWII. Holsinger filled in the blank spaces by providing additional documented information allowing the diary writings by Lieutenant General Keyes to come to life. Additionally, he provides the reader a chance to follow the events that led to General Keyes becoming the American High Commissioner to Austria.
~Major General Robert L. Ruth
Of the thirty-four American officers who commanded corps in active operations in WWII, none did so as long and few as successfully as Lieutenant General Keyes; yet his role in securing Allied victories in Sicily and Italy went ignored until now. The author's excellent edited and annotated rendering of Keyes' diaries fill that void. Of equal importance, Keyes' observations as military governor in post-war Germany and American high commissioner in occupied Austria offer penetrating insights into these under-studied areas of research.
~Daniel K. R. Crosswell, author of Beetle: The Life of General Walter Bedell Smith
World War II scholars and history buffs alike will find Lieutenant General Geoffrey Keyes wartime diary a fascinating read. James Holsinger provides historical context as the reader follows General Keyes wartime experience from North Africa, to Sicily, and throughout the Italian Campaign. The diary captures the many challenges Keyes faced serving under General George Patton and General Mark Clark and provides important insight into the complex American war in Italy.
~Steve R. Waddell, author of United States Army Logistics: From the American Revolution to 9/11
Imagine what it was really like working for Patton. Holsinger expertly weaves a greater strategic narrative into the diary of Lieutenant General Geoffrey Keyes, providing an unvarnished glimpse into life as a corps commander under one of the most infamous generals in American history. The result is a compelling perspective on the war in the Mediterranean and the nuanced challenges of conflict termination. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the Second World War and the challenges of command.
~David D. Dworak, author of War of Supply: World War II Allied Logistics in the Mediterranean
Patton's Tactician proves that WWII can still yield fresh material. This wonderfully edited book, with effective contextualizing of the diary entries, brings to light the accomplishments and thoughts of Geoffrey Keyes, a key figure during the war and the immediate post-war period. Readers will gain a deep appreciation for his command of II Corps during the Italian campaign and for his handling of post-war politics while serving in high-level roles in Austria. Enjoyable to read and highly recommended.
~Major J.N. Rickard, CD, PhD, Canadian Army Command and Staff College
