War Lords: Soldiers of Operation Overlord Paperback – Large Print, March 17, 2026

In 1941 the United States of America Military Forces are called to join in an allied effort to restore civil peace across the globe. During this extraordinary undertaking a vast treasure is discovered buried deep inside the Merker's Germany Salt Mine during World War II which is valued at a Trillion Dollars in today’s money. The full length film called "Monuments Men" was produced about its recovery. Expanding on this fabulous telling of the historical bounty of money, jewels, precious metals, art, gruesome remnants and beauty is the story of the man whom is credited with its uncovering; My grandfather; 1st Lieutenant S-2 officer Merrill Rudes and his 90th infantry division. Through his S-2 periodic reports and field notes together they demonstrate how more than financial concerns play a role in the way their sacrifices have inspired others towards the greater good of humanity. By focusing on the bigger picture, which, as large as the treasure was, is only a fraction of the successful missions of the soldiers of General George Patton's 3rd Battalion, 358th Regiment, 90th Infantry Division's exercises in WWII's European Theatre of War "Operation Overlord" most often referred to as "D-Day".The 90th Infantry Division is also credited with participating in the Normandy France "Utah Beach" landing, The "Battle of the Bulge", "Merker's Salt Mine Treasure Hoard Discovery", "Liberation of Czechoslovakia", "Liberation of Flossenburg Concentration Camp" and many other battles in between then ending their mission in "Waldmunchen, Bavaria" at which time the Third Reich surrenders. With two and a half years of military preparation and an exquisite eleven month successful maneuver execution they rage forward through unimaginable challenges. In appreciation for their determination I dedicate this book to my grandfather and his comrades. Read more