Rudder : From Leader to Legend

College Station Texas: Texas A & M University Press, 2011. Book Club Edition . Trade Paperback. Very Good/As New. 6 1/4" X 9 1/2. 502 Pages Indexed. Number 115 of the Centennial Series of the Association of Former Students of Texas A & M. Used book in As New condition. No defects noted and text pages are flawless. Attractive endpapers with a map of Texas imposed on a drawing of Texas A & M campus in 1932. Rudder's signature is in the upper right corner of the front endpaoper. The back endpaper is a map of Western Europe showing locations that were significant in Rudder's wartime service. Whether scaling the cliffs of Pointe du Hoc with his first-wave assault troops during the Normandy invasion or overseeing transitions in an academic institution with hallowed traditions during a time of contentious cultural change, James Rudder forged a legacy of wartime gallantry and peacetime leadership that commands continuing respect. This book pays tribute to a man who exemplified leadership, vision, and courage. In this comprehensive biography of James Rudder, the author has gone beyond the focus on Rudder's heroism in World War 2 to recreate with detail exciting events on battlefields and in boardrooms. He has painted a portrait that permits a wider appreciation for every phase of Rudder's life, from childhood to his military exploits, to his remarkable public service. Utilizing family papers, memoirs, and interviews, this is an insightful view of Rudder that applauds his accomplishments and reveals his foibles. Readers who know Rudder primarily through his association with Texas A&M University will be fascinated by his courageous battlefield leadership and those who previously knew only of his military reputation will enjoy learning about his distinguished record of public service. This book is a well-rounded view of this extraordinary man. Contents in Three Parts: The Early Years, The War, and Public Servant. Illustrated throughout with black and white photographs.