In the tradition of Stephen Ambrose's Band of Brothers, The First Men In tells the remarkable story of the American paratroopers who took on one of the most important and dangerous missions of World War II. On the eve of D-Day, the 82nd Airborne Division parachuted into key positions along the Normandy coast, spearheading the assault on 'Fortress Europe.' Putting themselves between the vulnerable landing beaches and relentless enemy assaults, the lightly armed paratroopers purchased with their blood the critical hours the Allies needed to get ashore—and thus helped secure the success of the greatest amphibious invasion in history.

Using extensive firsthand interviews with the men of the 82nd, Ed Ruggero brilliantly brings the courageous soldiers of the 82nd to life, weaving their improbable achievement into an unforgettable narrative.