Paul Dickson book talk to explore creation of the citizen army that won WWII, Aug. 14

Donna Leinwand Leger

July 21, 2020

National Press Club member Paul Dickson, author of more than 40 books, will speak and answer questions about his newest book "The Rise of the G.I. Army, 1940-1942: The Forgotten Story of How America Forged a Powerful Army Before Pearl Harbor," at a virtual Headliners Book Rap on Aug. 14 at 1 p.m.

This free, one-hour program will stream live at as part of the National Press Club’s Virtual Book and Author series. It is open to both the media and the public. To access the livestream or download a calendar reminder, click here.

The Rise of the G.I. Army, 1940-1942: The Forgotten Story of How America Forged a Powerful Army Before Pearl Harbor."

In 1939, the year Hitler invaded Poland, the U.S. could boast of just 120,000 men in uniform. "The Rise of the G.I. Army" details President Franklin Roosevelt's steps to revitalize the military, including his inspired appointment of Gen. George Marshall as chief of staff of the Army. Marshall, who had previously led the Civilian Conservation Corps, created the Officer Candidate School, allowing men to train for leadership and command positions without attending a U.S. military academy.

The book also delves into the politics of the peacetime draft in 1940, the war games in Louisiana before Pearl Harbor that proved critical for both Dwight Eisenhower and George Patton, and the implication of a universal draft for Black Americans.

The New York Times called reading the book "a profoundly heartening experience. With all they are facing today, Americans need Dickson’s reminder of this momentous accomplishment."

Kirkus Review called Dickson's book "one of the best treatments to date of America's rapid transition from the Depression to the wartime power it became."

Dickson’s presentation will be followed by a moderated question-and-answer session with National Press Club President Michael Freedman. Viewers can send their questions for the author via email during the live program to [email protected].