The Brighton Boys at St. Mihiel

"The Brighton Boys at St. Mihiel" by Lieutenant James R. Driscoll is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on a group of young American soldiers, known as the Brighton Boys, who are preparing to engage in the pivotal battle at St. Mihiel during World War I. The book explores themes of camaraderie, bravery, and the harsh realities of war through the eyes of the main characters, particularly Tom Walton and his friends, as they anticipate their roles in the coming conflict. The opening of the novel introduces the bleak, rain-soaked conditions under which the Brighton Boys are waiting before their imminent battle. Tom Walton, reminiscing about his school days in Brighton, feels the oppressive atmosphere of inactivity among his comrades. Amid this, there is a mix of humor and tension as the characters manage the dreary situation, including encounters with their troublesome mule, Maud. The chapter sets the stage for the grand preparations and heightened anticipation of the soldiers, transitioning from their mundane duties to the serious, life-altering changes that battle will bring, particularly with the arrival of General Pershing and the promise of action on the horizon.