5 Brothers in Arms [Paperback]

Raymond C Heimbuch (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 2008

"This is a sequel to the author’s first book; I’m One of the Lucky Ones, which is only available from the author who can be contacted by Email [e-mail].

This is a true story about our ordeal as POWs. Ray’s sharp memory tells the story of our starvation and suffering as Japanese POWs. Our friendship is one reason we did survive by helping each other, especially on the “Hell Ships” from Mindanao to Japan, a horrific journey of ninety-two days. Ours was not to reason why – ours was to do or die.
Bob Dowding, Japanese POW
Author: A few Survived.

I’ve known Ray and George Heimbuch since 1941, while assigned to the 5th Air Base Group. This relationship has lasted to today. It was interrupted in May 1942 when the unit was surrendered to Japanese forces in the Philippines. We shared similar experiences in POW camps until our liberation 1945. Afterward we stayed in the Air Force, got married, and raised families. At Survivor Reunions we share experiences, good and bad. Memories fade, but the tales get better. May our memories of the footlocker fifth remain with us forever.
Walt Regehr, another survivor!"

--This text refers to the Kindle Edition edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 204 pages
• Publisher: Xlibris, Corp. (May 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1436325242
• ISBN-13: 978-1436325240
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #6,789,941 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars A chronicle of one family's service in WWII., June 8, 2009

By 

R. Ballister "author and naval officer" (Annapolis, MD) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: 5 Brothers in Arms (Paperback)

Raymond Heimbuch's book is a powerful tribute to the service provided to this country by the five Heimbuch brothers. Each enlisted to help America defeat aggression in WWII, and each had stories to tell about that service. Ray and George were captured in the Philippines while serving in the Army Air Corps. They survived poor food, long marches, sadistic guards, and a ride on one of the infamous "Hell Ships," where they were crammed into the hold of a transport ship for three months en route to Japan. Scariest of all was their separation, not knowing how the other was holding up. Erv joined the Marines, and was one of only three men in his company (over 240 Marines) who survived unwounded through the invasion. Floyd and Mylo also served, and had stories of their own.

Heimbuch puts a very human face on war, bringing to light the little stories and anecdotes that develop the special brand of camaraderie that only veterans truly understand. His first hand account of being captured near the beginning of the war is also very educational, especially when he relates some of the humor and humanity of his Japanese captors. While some were indeed sadistic, some were simply soldiers doing their part for their country just like the author, and the Heimbuch does a fine job of describing both types.

Those who enjoy memoirs from combat soldiers in WWII may enjoy this book, and at less than 200 pages it is certainly a very readable work.