About Book
Marching Without Applause
Before they could face the enemy abroad, they had to conquer the prejudice at home. Marching Without Applause uncovers the pivotal, forgotten story of the first Black officers trained in the United States Army at Fort Des Moines. Set against the brutal backdrop of World War I and the Jim Crow era, this is not a distant chronicle of battles, but an intimate journey into the hearts of the men who fought a war on two fronts.
The narrative follows a cast of unforgettable characters, from college graduates and lawyers to seasoned Buffalo Soldiers. They are brought to life with a gripping, character-driven intensity. You stand beside them in the barracks, feel the weight of their impossible choices, and witness the forging of a brotherhood that would defy a nation’s doubt.
At its core, the book is a testament to a profound truth: courage is not always met with applause. It is a tribute to the quiet resilience and disciplined excellence that paved the way for future generations, challenging us to remember that the battle for dignity is often the hardest fight of all.
This story will resonate deeply with readers of historical fiction, military history, and anyone invested in the ongoing journey toward racial understanding and reconciliation. It is essential for those who seek a fuller, more honest American narrative.
Thomas Bradley, a retired Army Colonel, delivers this story with a unique authority. His prose is direct and unflinching, yet carries a pastoral depth that honors the internal struggles of his characters. The result is a narrative that is both meticulously researched and powerfully human, immersing you completely in a defining moment of history.
