Stand Firm Ye Boys from Maine

Fought amid rocks and trees, in thick blinding smoke, and under exceedingly stressful conditions, the battle for the southern slope of Little Round Top on July 2, 1863 stands among the most famous and crucial military actions in American history, one of the key engagements that led to the North's victory at Gettysburg.
In this powerfully narrated history, Maine historian Tom Desjardin tells the story of the 20th Maine Regiment, the soldiers who fought and won the battle of Little Round Top. This engaging work is the culmination of years of detailed research on the experiences of the soldiers in that regiment, telling the complete story of the unit in the Gettysburg Campaign, from June 21 through July 10, 1863. Desjardin uses more than seventy first-hand accounts to tell the story of this campaign in critical detail. He brings the personal experiences of the soldiers to life, relating the story from both sides and revealing the actions and feelings of the men from Alabama who tried, in vain, to seize Little Round Top. Indeed, ranging from the lowest ranking private to the highest officers, this book explores the terrible experiences of war and their tragic effect. Following the regiment through the campaign enables readers to understand fully the soldiers' feelings towards the enemy, towards citizens of both North and South, and towards the commanders of the two armies. In addition, this book traces the development of the legend of Gettysburg, as veterans of the fight struggle to remember, grasp, and memorialize their part in the largest battle ever fought on the continent.
With a new preface and updated maps and illustrations, Stand Firm Ye Boys of Maine offers a compelling account of one of the most crucial small engagements of the Civil War.

The performance of the 20th Maine Regiment in the famous Civil War battle for the southern slope of Little Round at Gettysburg on July 2, 1863 is brought to life through 75 first-hand accounts from the soldiers, based on the historian's years of detailed research. 35 halftones. 12 maps.

An excellent book--moving and powerful, with a strong narrative line and interesting analysis based on exhaustive research.--James McPherson

A well-researched and compelling story of the Mainers' fight on Little Round Top...Even those who do not consider themselves Civil War buffs will find the story of the 20th Maine at Gettysburg to be a fascinating tale...Highly recommended. --Journal of America's Military Past

A well-researched and compelling story...highly recommended. -- Journal of America's Military Past