We Wanted Those Wings: Camp Taccoa: July-December 1942 Summary and Analysis

The first chapter introduces the inception of Easy Company, its training regiment and the volunteers who passed the rigorous physical and mental challenges to become members of the elite group. Never before had troops endured basic training at the same time as parachute jump training. Each member volunteered to join the unit for the thrill, honor, recognition and monthly bonus pay. Basic training took place at Camp Taccoa, Georgia. Commanding officers wanted only the cream of the crop for its regiment. Due to the strict standards set by army commanders, the unit had a high drop-out and rejection rate.

Easy company ran up Mount Currahee, which had an elevation of 1,000 feet, on a regular basis. On one occasion, the company was given respite from its daily run. The men...