The platform on which I watched the series describes it as "true, untold combat stories of everyday citizen-soldiers fighting on the front lines of Europe. Witness the battle action of tank crews, infantrymen, paratroopers, French resistors, nurses, medics, and more".
Those taking part are American soldiers rather than professional actors, so don't expect to spot a budding Marlon Brando or even an imitation John Wayne. In some episodes the dialogue has a stilted Chomondley-Warner feel to it. Those of a pedantic disposition (or just know more than me) can have fun spotting mistakes in tanks and uniforms. My two favourites are where the participants manage to project somewhat more personality than an extra in a Cecil B DeMille epic:
5 The Mute. Henri Balloni plays Sgt Grant, a paratrooper in France picked up by the resistance, whom he naturally agrees to help. Speaking no French, he has to pretend to be a deaf mute, especially difficult as his nickname Gabbi is well chosen. Further complications ensue when he and resistance leader Lucienne (Nita Winslow) fall in love. The story is marred only by the rushed ending.
6 Private Lopez. Lopez (Paris Moschopopoulos) encounters prejudice because of his Mexican heritage, but by his bravery earns respect. He sends a German tank and supporting infantry packing virtually single handed, with just a machine gun. He was awarded a Medal of Honour.
While I can only give the series a 6 overall, these two episodes rate 8.
