The Simple Sounds of Freedom : The True Story of the Only Soldier to Fight for Both America and the Soviet Union in World War II

Book Description

One of the most amazing stories of World War II is also likely to be among the last.

As the twentieth century closed, the veterans of its defining war passed away at a rate of a thousand per day. Fortunately, D Day paratrooper Joseph Beyrle met author Thomas H. Taylor in time to record The Simple Sounds of Freedom, the true story of the first American paratrooper to land in Normandy and the only soldier to fight for both the United States and the Soviet Union against Nazi Germany.

It is a story of battle, followed by a succession of captures, escapes, recaptures, and re-escapes, then battle once more, in the final months of fighting on the Eastern Front. For these unique experiences, both President Bill Clinton and President Boris Yeltsin honored Joe Beyrle on the fiftieth anniversary of V-E Day.

Beyrle did not strive to be a part of history, but history kept visiting him. Twice before the invasion he parachuted into Normandy, bearing gold for the French resistance. D Day resulted in his capture, and he was mistaken for a German line-crosser—a soldier who had, in fact, died in the attempt. Eventually Joe was held under guard at the American embassy in Moscow, suspected of being a Nazi assassin.

Fingerprints saved him, confirming that he’d been wounded five times, and that he bore a safe-conduct pass written by Marshal Zhukov after the Wehrmacht wrested Joe, at gunpoint, from execution by the Gestapo. In the ruins of Warsaw his life was saved again, this time by Polish nuns. Some of Joe’s story is in his own words—a voice that will be among the last and best we hear firsthand from World War II.

Customer Reviews:

amerikanski tovarisch!.......2003-12-31

Several years ago I read parts of Joe Beyrle's memoir, translated into Russian for the gazette Sovietskaya Zhizn'. "The Simple Sounds of Freedom" contains Joe's entire memoir and his exciting biography by Thomas Taylor. Mr. Taylor, a veteran and historian of the 101st Airborne "Screaming Eagles", is the perfect choice to tell Joe's story. Joe Beyrle was a small-town boy in 1942, gung-ho to prove the patriotism of his German-American family. He joined the Screaming Eagle "Currahees", and made a couple of harrowing jumps into occupied France to aid the Resistance. That was in preparation for the big day, D Day. Alas, Joe was captured almost as he touched ground in Normandy and missed his chance to fight. He survived beatings upon arrival at a POW camp, only to experience a most painful sight: the bullet-riddled body of his beloved CO, Robert Wolverton, hanging from a tree. Laughing guards were using the slain Currahee for bayonet practice. Later escaping, Joe was caught, tortured, and interned in a notorious concentration camp, Stalag 111-C. There he saw miserable Soviet prisoners, segregated, starved, freezing, worked to death. There was little the American krieges could do for them, except throw some bread over their fence on occasion. Again, Joe plotted escape, and finally succeeded, although two of his buddies perished in the attempt. In his emaciated condition, trapped behind enemy lines, Joe hoped to be rescued by the advancing Red Army. Meanwhile, at home in Muskegon, his family had received word of their son's "death in action" and were grieving his supposed loss. These events are interwoven in the book with the overall campaign of the 101st Airborne. Several chapters do not deal with Joe's story at all, but with his Currahee comrades' accomplishments during this crucial period of the War. I found this did not distract in the least from the biography; in fact, made it all the more interesting. And Thomas' macho style of prose quite enhances his patriotic pride in his Division! It is not until the last third of the book that Joe meets the Soviet column. Commanding the Sherman tank battalion was a Russian woman whose "five-syllable name was unpronouncable." Joe called her by her rank, "Major", and joined the infantry attached to her own tank. His new comrades called him "Yo", and came to appreciate his skill in demolitions. Major led from the front, which meant Joe got plenty of combat action. He accompanied her all the way to the banks of the Oder, prepared to go through the meatgrinder at her side, into Berlin. But then he was wounded, and had to be evacuated to Moscow. Fifty years later, he would be decorated by Presidents Clinton and Yeltsin as the only American soldier to fight for both the USA and the USSR. And he would think about Major and wonder how many of her battalion survived. "Proshchai tovarisch!" he writes. "If she is still alive, I'd go to Russia just to see her -- my major, my CO, my second Wolverton -- who was a woman." I enjoy books about World War ll, but this one touched me in a special way. Today Joe is retired, a veteran of the fast-dwindling Greatest Generation, my parents' generation, who fought Hitler. Ironically, the new generation of 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles fight on against another foe which faced the Soviet army... in Afghanistan.

Excellent Writing.......2003-03-08

"The Simple Sounds Of Freedom" by Thomas H. Taylor, Random House, New York 2002. The title of the book is derived from President Clinton's speech in France on the fiftieth anniversary of D Day.

This is a biography of Joe Beyrle but the book is also a record of praise for the 101st Airborne. Joe Beyrle, from Michigan, was part of the 101st Airborne when that division dropped into Normandy on D-Day, 1944. He was captured, escaped, capture again and shipped off to a German POW camp. After one escape, he is captured in Berlin, the capital city of the Third Reich; he is tortured by Gestapo. Joe is rescued from the Gestapo by the German Army, the Wehrmacht, of all people, who claim him as their prisoner. They were following bureaucratic procedures, a common trait in Nazi Germany. After regaining his strength, Joe Beyrle again escapes, and this time, he is close enough to reach the relative safety of Soviet lines. After identifying himself as an American, Joe decides to stay with the Soviet armored column in order to kill Germans. Thus, he fights on both the Western and Eastern fronts in Europe in 1944-1945, fulfilling the sub-title of the book, "...Only Soldier to Fight For Both America and the Soviet Union in World War II".

As a 101st Airborne combat veteran himself, the author was capable of an excellent job of bonding with Joe Beyrle, so as to produce an almost personal memoir direct from the Joe's memories. At times, it was difficult to distinguish between Beyrle and Taylor. At other times, particularly in Chapter Sixteen, entitled, "Bastogne", it was evident that it was all Thomas Taylor writing in praise of the division he loves, the 101st. From the viewpoint of a biography of Joe Beyrle, such chapters were unnecessary, but their presence rounds out the story and makes a better history of the time. By the way, the photo collection in the book shows Joe Beyrle aging in a remarkably similar fashion to the character of Private Ryan in the movie, "Saving Private Ryan".

A Most Interesting Story.......2003-02-01

I found the story of Joe Beyrle to be almost unbelieveable. How could one person go through so much. I was very anxious to read the book, because I once knew who he was from work. I worked at Brunswick Corporation in Muskegon, as did he. I knew that he was a prisoner of war, and that he had been reported killed in action. However, I didn't know that whole story until now. Many of the comments about Muskegon as familiar to me. Also, I once met his parents, as I am friends with his niece.

Thomas Taylor is an excellent writer. He knows how to make the story interesting, and provides much detail. Even though many of the incidents in the story are not pleasant, they are a part of history. He depicts World War II as brutal and horrible. Let us hope that it never happens again.

Wonderful Story.......2002-11-07

An amazing story! Joe Beyrle completely inspires me, never have i heard such an amazing tail based on such an extraordinary person. We should all be thankful that Joe is on our side.

This is a must read as it's the most satisfying book i've read in years. How Tom Taylor put this mans story in to words is beyond me.....very well done!

Curahee all over again!.......2002-11-05

This is the fascinating story of Joe Beyrle of the 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles in WWII, written by Thomas Taylor, a Vietnam era Screaming Eagle and the son of the commanding general of the 101st in WWII. Beyrle jumped into Normandy on D-Day and was captured by the Germans. He escapes and is re-captured several times before he joins a Soviet armored unit and fights the Nazis until the end of the war. This is the story of his suffering and triumph over adversity in many situations and circumstances.
It is an inspiring tale of survival and the human quest for freedom. This book is a page turner and I highly recommend it to all.

Simple Story Of A Soldier: Life And Service in the 2d Mississippi Infantry

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Simple Story Of A Soldier: Life And Service in the 2d Mississippi Infantry
Samuel W. Hankins
Manufacturer: Fire Ant Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Military & Spies | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

General | World | History | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0817351574

Average customer rating:

"A Simple Soldier"--- simply the truth
The first honest account of Nam I've read
Best Seller!!
A MUST READ!!!

A Simple Soldier
Steven R. Fehrenbach
Manufacturer: Authorhouse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Military & Spies | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Vietnam War | Military | History | Subjects | Books

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Men's Adventure | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1414032692

Customer Reviews:

"A Simple Soldier"--- simply the truth .......2004-08-05

The two main ingredients necessary for a good book are 1) skill with the craft and 2) having something to say. Whatever Fehrenbach may lack in finesse (frequent misspellings, clumsy syntax, etc.), he makes up for by most definitely having something to say. Rather than being a drawback, his lack of sophistication soon becomes endearing and creates a real feeling of authenticity.

This 430-page, no-frills account of Fehrenbach's 1969 tour of duty in Vietnam is both harrowing and insightful, his memory for detail, astonishing and unflinching.

Simply stated, this is the best book on the Vietnam conflict I've ever read.

The first honest account of Nam I've read.......2004-02-13

This book should be mandatory reading for any course, high school or college, that deals with the subject of the Viet Nam conflict. Steven tells it like was ... day by day, hour by hour and, in some cases, minute by minute. The good, the bad, the ugly. Do yourself a favor and read this book.

Best Seller!!.......2004-01-15

This book grabs you and doesn't let you go. I could not put it down once I started reading it. As good or better than anything on the recent best seller lists. Mr. Fehrenbach's unique story telling ability conveys the story of his tour in Vietnam directly to you. Five Stars!!*****

A MUST READ!!!.......2004-01-11

This book captures the essence of a very tumultuous time in a young American's life- his tour of duty in Vietnam- in a way it has never been told before. The author speaks clearly and concisely, without bogging down the reader with flowery language. In a Steinbeck-esque manner, Fehrenbach matter-of-factly approaches his experiences as a foot soldier in a war, complete with all the banalities of war and the sometimes repugnant, sometimes benevolent nature of the human race.
I highly recommend this book- Steven R. Fehrenbach is perhaps the best story teller of his generation.

Army catechism; or, Simple questions and answers for non-commissioned officers and soldiers

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Army catechism; or, Simple questions and answers for non-commissioned officers and soldiers
Guy Vernor Henry
Manufacturer: Star Printing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books
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Feather Merchants, The - The Slightly Screwy Saga of a Simple-Minded Soldier

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Feather Merchants, The - The Slightly Screwy Saga of a Simple-Minded Soldier
Max Shulman
Manufacturer: Pocket Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000NAX5IG

First aid for the trenches;: Some simple instructions for saving life that every soldier should know,

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First aid for the trenches;: Some simple instructions for saving life that every soldier should know,
Somerville Hastings
Manufacturer: J. Murray
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Safety & First Aid | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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Manual of interior economy: A simple explanation of all matters affecting a soldier from enlistment to discharge, more especially with regard to the Royal Artillery

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Manual of interior economy: A simple explanation of all matters affecting a soldier from enlistment to discharge, more especially with regard to the Royal Artillery
Osborn Hall Goodenough
Manufacturer: F.J. Cattermole
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B00088ZI1K

The star pocket-book; or, How to find your way at night by the stars: A simple manual for the use of soldiers, travellers, and other landsmen,

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The star pocket-book; or, How to find your way at night by the stars: A simple manual for the use of soldiers, travellers, and other landsmen,
R Weatherhead
Manufacturer: Longmans, Green and Co
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Binding: Unknown Binding

Astronomy | Astronomy | Science | Subjects | Books
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Studies in comradeship, from the New Testament: A simple plan of reading the great passages of the New Testament using the key of the comradeship motive

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Studies in comradeship, from the New Testament: A simple plan of reading the great passages of the New Testament using the key of the comradeship motive
Theodore Gerald Soares
Manufacturer: Religious Work Dept., Young Men's Christian Assn
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

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ASIN: B0008APN9A

With "Old Eph" in the army (not a history) a simple treatise on the human side of the colored soldier

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With "Old Eph" in the army (not a history) a simple treatise on the human side of the colored soldier
Walker Harrison Jordan
Manufacturer: H.E. Houck & co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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Great ideas!

Hundreds of Fun Ideas

Not For Stay At Home Parents

Valuable Suggestions for Sensitive Parenting

Little Things Delivers BIG!!

Little Things Long Remembered: Making Your Children Feel Special Every Day
Susan Newman
Manufacturer: Crown
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Marriage & Family | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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Look Inside Nonfiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
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Accessories:

Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer

ASIN: 0517593025
Release Date: 1993-11-02

Book Description

Five hundred realistic, simple, and inexpensive ideas for strengthening family ties and fostering traditions that children will remember for a lifetime. Pick and choose from scores of ideas for Parents Who Travel and for special circumstances such as Sick Days, Holidays, and Birthdays. 25 line drawings.

Customer Reviews:

Great ideas!.......2007-02-21

This book is organized in time slots. Do you have 5 minutes -- here are ways you can make your child feel special. 30 minutes? Here are some different ways. And so forth. Some ideas you will probably have already come up with on your own -- or read elsewhere -- but many were innovative.

Hundreds of Fun Ideas .......2006-08-17

I really love this book. It is full of substantive and whimsical ideas for brief and longer activities with kids. Newman has an uncanny eye for what children most enjoy -- and how parents can have a good time too!

A definite must -- and a great gift for moms and dads everywhere.

Not For Stay At Home Parents .......2005-05-20

I think there should be some sort of qualification on this book that it is geared for parents who both work full time outside the home and spend most of their day away from their children. The book is written to help these "busy parents" [what parent isn't busy?! LOL!] fit "quality time" in for their children - and it is broken down into 5 minute or less things to do, half hour things, weekend things etc.

I think this book would be really helpful to parents who didn't have much time to spend with their children. But, for a stay at home parent or a homeschooling parent, it is essentially useless in my opinion.

Most of the things that would be appropriate for a full time parent are things that a stay at home parent is probably already doing [common sense stuff]. The rest is not geared for those who stay home with their children. [for example, the tip to "write a letter to your child's teacher on the first day of school and let them know you want to be involved even though you are a working parent".]

So, personally, as a stay at home mother, I was dissappointed. I feel like I spent money on a book full of stuff that either doesn't apply to our situation or is stuff that I already DO intuitively with my children.

Valuable Suggestions for Sensitive Parenting.......2005-03-25

This book is a wonderful resource for parents that provides a plethora of ideas and valuable inspiration on how to establish meaningful ties and a strong connection with their children that will last a lifetime. The premise is to offer a "think tank" for parents to find ways to be involved in their children's lives and to establish as many connections with them on a daily basis as possible regardless of how busy and hectic the family routine may be. Although the book is full of suggestions and ideas to do just this, I was a bit disappointed that they were listed in small vignettes in an almost laundry list fashion. I would've enjoyed more detail and depth as well as an easier way of navigating the book to find ideas. I find chapter titles such as "weekend fun" and "five minutes more or less" to be a bit vague. All in all, most of us inherently know that the little things in life are what count the most and are most memorable and the ideas offered in this book, when put into use, will build fond childhood memories, solidify the parent-child bond, and nurture a warm, loving home life. I highly recommend this work to all families.

Little Things Delivers BIG!!.......2004-11-03

I've used this book for years. It gives me new ideas to try with my kids...and they work. The chapters are divided into time-frames of a minute or two, half an hour, over the weekend and so forth, so I pick one to meet the time I have. No book like it comes close in helping me show my children I love them.
Thanks....to Susan Newman!

Next Time Around: Some Things Pleasantly Remembered

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Next Time Around: Some Things Pleasantly Remembered
John Gould
Manufacturer: W W Norton & Co Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Average customer rating:

the best book going in ptown

All Things Remembered
Deborahsue
Manufacturer: iUniverse
ProductGroup: Book
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Download Description

"A story of hope and love, this freshman work by DeborahSue is meant to be a labor of love."

Marvin was accustomed to the finer things in life. Even if it meant breaking hearts to get them. His ways are far from those he was raised with, so now it is up to Mother Ida and Grandpapa Willie to pray him out of trouble and back home.

Customer Reviews:

the best book going in ptown.......2007-02-12

I find this book to be beautifully written from the heart. A great collection of stories that not only grabs your attention but your heart as well. This may be the freshman work of Deborahsue, but from the first page to the last you can tell that she truly has a passion for her art. Crafting not only characters that leap off the page, but taking you face to face with the trials and tribulations that are common in the everyday life. I love in the first story the love and connection that are the foundation of Grandpapa Willie and Mother Ida to their children and friends. Though I loved the entire book I could not help but fall in love with "Take no captive" Snail is a hitman that keeps you on the edge. What I mean to say is go out and get the book you will be happy that you did

Bible highpoints: A comprehensive synopsis; things to be remembered in every book of the Bible. King James version

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Bible highpoints: A comprehensive synopsis; things to be remembered in every book of the Bible. King James version
Minna Louise Martrit
Manufacturer: J. Randolph
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General | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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Little Things Remembered: A Cuban Immigrant's Family Ties

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The Truly Important Things in Life

Little Things Remembered: A Cuban Immigrant's Family Ties
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General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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Book Description

These 2-page essays and stories are about family values, faith, parenting, loneliness, and love. This inspirational book is a beautiful gift for any adult or child as it lifts up ideals of what is important in life.

Customer Reviews:

The Truly Important Things in Life.......2004-10-02

I just finished reading Little Things Remembered by Maria Luisa Salcines. In fact, I read it in two days because it is so easy to read and the stories are so heartwarming that it left me wanting to read on.
As a teacher, I consider this book to be one all parents should read. Maria Luisa's stories about parenting and families is a perfect example of what is missing in so many of today's young people.
Her story "Disco Bar" actually made me laugh, while "Give What You Can" brought tears to my eyes. Maria shares her stories in a way that reminds the book's readers what is truly important in this life.
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More what ever happened to ... ?: Another collection of things remembered because once they were important to us,

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More what ever happened to ... ?: Another collection of things remembered because once they were important to us,
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North America | Travel | Subjects | Books
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Ricordi, things remembered: An anthology of short stories (Prose series)

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Ricordi, things remembered: An anthology of short stories (Prose series)

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ProductGroup: Book
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Ricordi: Things Remembered (Prose 5)

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Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Anthologies | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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SOME THINGS REMEMBERED
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Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000X3CJQM

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Some things remembered
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Manufacturer: Church of the Larger Fellowship, Unitarian Universalist
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