This is Part 2 of a two-part interview done by Studs Terkel with Gene Sledge was done prior to June of 1984 (you can see Sledge’s letter to Terkel below, dated “June 29, 1984”) as Studs Terkel was doing research for what would be the best-selling book The Good War.
The interview gives wonderful insight into the depth, intellect, toughness and compassion of the Marine we now know as “Sledgehammer” — PFC Eugene B. Sledge, USMC. This is Part 1 of two parts. Sledge comes to Terkel’s attention after he published his classic account of the fighting he participated in during his time with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division in his book With the Old Breed in 1981.
You can visit the Eugene B. Sledge Collection which are held in Auburn University’s Digital Archives by clicking HERE
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