"Edward Mallory "Ned" Almond belonged to the generation of US Army officers who came of age during World War I and then ascended to senior command positions during World War II and the Korean War. He displayed personal courage in combat, exercised strong leadership as a battalion and later a corps commander, demonstrated dedication and efficiency as a staff officer, and showed some capacity as an author and military innovator. Almond initially made his mark on history as the commander of the 92nd Infantry Division, one of only two African American divisions to see combat during World War II. Later he commanded the X Corps for the Inchon invasion that decisively changed the course of the Korean War. However, alongside these considerable achievements lurked the distasteful beliefs of a fervent racist and right- wing political zealot. Almond's vehement attitudes regarding African American soldiers serving in combat units overshadowed his accomplishments. In Edward M. Almond and the US Army, Michael E. Lynch takes a comprehensive look at the accomplishments and downfalls of US Army officer Edward Almond. While acknowledging Almond's faults, this book balances the historical ledger by arguing Almond played significant roles in the Army's history that are worthy of careful consideration. This critical examination of his life and career treats both the good and the bad, taking stock of a complex man who was so deeply flawed in some areas, yet supremely strong in many others."--
