Elegantly and effectively written, Gleason’s latest book is chock full of fascinating incidents, insights, observations, and photos of times and environments most of us know little about. And while I have no idea how or why he retained copious notes, letters, documents, and articles for 30+ years, I am beyond glad he did.
—Burt Cohen, founding publisher, Mpls. St. Paul Magazine
A fascinating exploration of one man’s love of music and its history. Gleason writes with insight and compassion about his personal journey. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
—Matt Goldman, New York Times bestselling author of Gone to Dust
Acclaimed historian, Bruce Gleason has written another captivating book. This time, it’s personal—a memoir of his U.S. Army enlistment while stationed in Berlin, Germany. His account of the fall of the Berlin Wall—told within the context of Nazi and Prussian history—followed by German reunification coupled with tales of his travels through Europe and Asia is a must-read for all with an interest in world history.
—Jill Sullivan, PhD, author of Bands of Sisters, U.S. Women's Military Bands during World War II
Interspersed with a multitude of photos and documents—including thirty of his penned North Star News articles—Gleason’s latest work is a fascinating read for anyone interested in military, cultural, and world history.
—Raoul Camus, PhD, author of Military Music of the American Revolution
Sandwiched between the two worlds of public-school music teacher and university professor, Bruce Gleason’s memoir of being a military musician is a joyful whiplashing journey through the unexpected.
—Jari Villanueva, principal trumpeter emeritus of the U.S. Air Force Band, founder of Taps Across America
Happily, Professor Gleason changes focus from his well-known historical scholarship related to military musicians. He now shares his memories of the Cold War through an atypical lens as a U.S. Army bandsman. The book is a delight to read.
—John P. Langellier, PhD, co-author, The Drums Would Roll: A Pictorial History of U.S. Army Bands on the Frontier 1866 – 1900
Bruce Gleason’s well documented account of his years with the 298th Army Band is a welcome addition to all military bookshelves. He presents a rich tableau of duty in a city of great culture and political excitement. Generously peppered with historical photographs, this volume provides an interesting description of duty and play time. This is a must-read for all Cold War-era aficionados.
—Louis Hurvitz, 3rd Sergeant Major, U.S. Army Bands Program
