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All New Edition of Third Down and a War to Go


Pilot Jerry Frei and his P-38 Lightning fighter, bearing the name "Smallfry," a new image that appears in the paperback edition of Third Down and a War to Go

Third Down and a War to Go, the Wisconsin Historical Society Press's award-winning and popular title, is back in a fully revised paperback edition. This all new edition follows the story of the legendary 1942 Wisconsin Badgers whose host of legendary stars, including two-time All-American Dave Schreiner, fullback Pat Harder and halfback Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsch, scattered into the various branches of military service shortly after the season ended. Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist and author David Maraniss provides a new foreword to the book.

Author Terry Frei is the son of 1942 Badgers guard Jerry Frei, a decorated P-38 fighter pilot who went on to a long coaching career in college football and the National Football League. After Jerry Frei's 2001 death, his son set out on a mission of discovery, wanting to learn about the men in the team picture that hung in a place of honor in his father's den. Through extensive research and interviews with the remaining Badgers, their families, and combat comrades, Frei tells the often heart-wrenching story of this band of brothers, describing their successes and losses both on the football field and in service to their country.

After the hardcover edition came out in 2005, Frei began to hear from family members, classmates and friends of the '42 Badgers, who shared their memories and remembrances. These stories plus feedback from readers and follow-up research and updates have all been incorporated into the book, providing a powerful portrait of America at war and the people who answered their nation's call.

To order Third Down or other titles from the Wisconsin Historical Society Press, visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum's online shop or by calling 608-264-6428 or toll-free at 888-999-1669.

:: Posted August 29, 2007

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