"And they thought we wouldn't fight"

"And They Thought We Wouldn't Fight" by Floyd Phillips Gibbons is a historical account written in the early 20th century, specifically during the years surrounding World War I. The book chronicles Gibbons’ experiences as a war correspondent with the American Expeditionary Forces in France, detailing the remarkable stories of bravery and American resolve as part of the larger narrative of the war. The primary focus is on the American soldiers who fought against Germany, capturing the valor and duty instilled in them through Gibbons’ firsthand observations. At the start of the narrative, Gibbons recounts the harrowing experience of traveling across the Atlantic on the Cunard liner "Laconia", which was torpedoed by a German submarine. He vividly describes the chaos and fear during the sinking, as well as his own desperate fight for survival in the life-boat amidst the icy waters. In the aftermath, Gibbons shares insights into how this event served as a potent reminder of the mortal dangers facing American troops abroad and the urgency of their mission. As he delves into the arrival of American forces and their initial experiences in France, the opening sets the stage for exploring themes of courage, sacrifice, and the realities of war.