"Emiel W. Owens served his country in the 777th Field Artillery, involved in actions from Omaha Beach to the occupation army in the Philippines. Like the rest of the U.S. Army at the time, the 777th was a segregated unit. Remarkably few memoirs by African Americans have been published from the World War II era, making Owens's account especially valuable. Because he situates his military experience in the larger context of his life and the society in which he lived, his story also reveals much about the changing racial climate of the last several decades."

A typical African American and an American citizen -- So you're in the Army now : training -- To the war in Europe -- March to the German front -- In battle in Europe -- To the Pacific and the Philippines -- Heading home, heading north, heading out -- Summing up.