In the Shadow of a Mountain: A Soldier's Struggle with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

MWSA Review

Adoration and respect for her father color the pages in Susan Dahlgren Daigneault's biography In the Shadow of a Mountain. This thoroughly-researched and documented in-depth account of the life and death of her father, Edward Dahlgren, a World War II Medal of Honor recipient, partially depicts the delicate balance service members who've returned from war practice in everyday life while struggling to come to terms with their past wartime experiences.

In the Shadow of a Mountain relays the story of a kind and gentle man who was a true American Hero, but more so a loving and caring father, husband, and community leader. She illustrates the harms of untreated or undiagnosed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and triumphs through therapy and understanding.

Susan's book is a touching account full of memories, love, and appreciation. Any life well lived deserves to be remembered. Ms. Daigneault's tribute to her father, his sacrifices, and his accolades will ensure his story will live on for decades.

Reviewed by: Sandra Miller Linhart, (2014)

Author's Summary

"In the Shadow of a Mountain: A Soldier's Struggle with PTSD" relates the story of the price paid by Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, Lt. Edward Dahlgren and his family, following his combat experiences in Europe with the 36th Infantry Division during World War II. It is a timely manuscript in that it details Dahlgren's struggles with PTSD, a condition affectikng many of our military veterans returning from war zones today. The book is Dahlgren's life story and his pursuit to find meaning in his survival when so many of his fellow soldiers were killed in battle. It is a book that will help readers know about the devastation of war and how we must always provide care and comfort for our returning veterans.