PORTRAIT OF PATTON.

By Harry H.Semmes '13. New York: Appleton-Century-Crojts, 1955. 308 pp. $6.00.

This is the story of a boy who wanted to be a general and lead troops in combat and about the man who lived to full realization of his early ambition.

Portrait of Patton is an intimate biography of one of the great combat generals of modern times. The story is traced from General Patton's early childhood to his tragic death as the result of a motor accident in Germany just after the close of the war. His military schooling at Virginia Military Institute and West Point, first military experience against Mexico under Pershing, and outstanding military achievements in the two world wars compel the reader's interest.

Harry H. Semmes, lawyer-author, fought under this great leader in both world wars and is, himself, a combat soldier of distinction. His military background and intimate friendship with George Patton over the many years are reflected in his book, which brings the rather complex character of Patton into focus in a military environment.

General George S. Patton Jr. was called "Georgie" by those who were close to him, but by many others he was known as "Blood and Guts." The contrast in nicknames attached to him is indicative of some of the diverse personal characteristics of this bold and dynamic tank unit commander. A fighting man in more ways than one, who made enemies as well as friends, he was destined to be a highly controversial figure as well.

The author describes. George Patton as being "hot-tempered and profane, but, at the same time, humble before God, sentimental and deeply profound in his way of life." These contradictions in the character of the man are admirably portrayed by the author, and the reader is left with the feeling that this rough-spoken wartime commander had his lovable side too.

The author did not intend this book to be a history, but there is much of the historical in it, which, when coupled with the personality of a George Patton, makes the truth actually read like fiction.

The book provides the reader with eyewitness accounts and intimate personal details of some of the most historic battle actions of the late World War. It is in this sequence of military events, in North Africa and on the Continent, that the "impact of Patton's character on battle actions under his command and on those who fought with him" is most vividly presented.

General Semmes has done a most commendable service to his old friend, and while so doing he has produced an outstanding book of top quality, great human interest, and historical fact. Patton will be remembered for his great loyalty and contribution to the security of his country, rather than for his incompatibility with the conventional.