Plot summary, “We Band of Angels” by Elizabeth M. Norman in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"We Band of Angels: The Untold Story of American Nurses Trapped on Bataan by the Japanese" is a non-fiction book written by Elizabeth M. Norman. Published in 1999, the book sheds light on the experiences of a group of American military nurses during World War II.
The book focuses on the heroic efforts of a group of Army and Navy nurses stationed in the Philippines during the early years of World War II. As the Philippines fell to the Japanese in 1942, these nurses found themselves trapped in an incredibly challenging and dangerous situation. They faced the same brutal conditions as the American and Filipino soldiers who became prisoners of war, enduring extreme hardships, deprivation, and even torture.
"We Band of Angels" tells the stories of these courageous women, describing their dedication to their patients and their resilience in the face of unimaginable circumstances. The nurses continued to provide medical care to wounded soldiers and fellow prisoners, often at great personal risk. Their experiences highlight the role of women in wartime, the challenges of being medical personnel in a combat zone, and the strength of the human spirit in times of crisis.
Elizabeth M. Norman's book is based on extensive research and interviews with surviving nurses, their families, and other sources. It paints a vivid picture of the nurses' sacrifices and contributions during the war and how their experiences affected them long after their liberation.
The title "We Band of Angels" is a reference to a line from Shakespeare's "Henry V," paying tribute to the bravery and solidarity of the nurses in the face of adversity.
The book has been well-received for its thorough documentation of the nurses' experiences and its focus on an often overlooked aspect of World War II history. It offers readers a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women in the military and the remarkable courage exhibited by these nurses during a tumultuous period in history.