Ambulance #11: Memories of a WWII Veteran

Victory in war depends on the efforts of every individual engaged in the conflict — not only the combatant at the front lines, but those who support, supply, and provide medical attention to him as well. Arthur W. Wolde, Sr., here, in his recounting of his experiences in the Second World War, tells of the bravery and dedication of the men of the ambulance corps who served in every theater of that war and whose efficiency in performing their duties was often rewarded with a prolonged exposure to the perils of the front.

Ambulance #11 (the title refers to the author’s vehicle) tells the story of the men in the 451st Medical Collecting Co. who drove their ambulances ashore during the assault on Normandy, were present at the liberation of Paris, accompanied the Allied Forces in the penetration and collapse of Nazi Germany, and were about to be transferred to the Pacific theater when news came of the Japanese capitulation.

Mr. Wolde’s accounts vividly point out the horror and absurdity of war and the unexpected courage and compassion that somehow can survive in its waste.