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| During his recent visit to the Normandy beaches in France, author Leon Cooper stood at the ramp of a |
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Leon Cooper has had a varied work experience in
civilian life:inventor, with patented products used throughout the world; CEO of his own computer company; CFO of two major
corporations; now a writer.
During WWII he was Boat Group Commander for his
ship, leading Higgins Boats carrying assault troops in a number of invasions of Japanese-held islands. His experiences during
WWII led to questions he had, even at the time. Were there compelling reasons for each of the major battles? Could some battles
have been avoided, saving American lives, while still allowing us to gain the ultimate victory?
The Japanese learned from each battle how to prepare
for the next, making American forces pay more dearly in blood. And yet,time and again we made the same direct, frontal assaults
on Japanese island strongholds, with ever mounting losses. The Japanese used each battle experience to good effect. Why didn't
we? These and other questions have remained with the author over the years, since his time as a young Naval officer on duty
in the Pacific.
What of the many histories about the Pacific War?
What's new or significant about "The War in the Pacific--A Retrospective"? Leon Cooper believes that his book will give the
reader some important and new insights about that conflict because, among others, he:
-Shows why "Island-Hopping"
led to needless American casualties;
-Explains why the divided command in the Pacific Theatre caused even more American casualties;
-Asks the vital question about the Battle of Okinawa and the Manhattan Project.
This book,then,
are his opinions about that War. Some will provoke controversy because he rejects the commonly accepted view about the need
for certain battles. Some of his opinions reflect his deep anger, still felt,about General Douglas MacArthur,an arrogant,
self-centered man who pursued his personal goals while ignoring the safety and welfare of the soldiers in his command.
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