To be released, Fall 2024:
Setting himself apart from the millions of people who have thought, “I should be writing a book,” Bruce Gleason does it in spades with Berlin and the 298th Army Band, 1988 – 1991: A Memoir. Providing a fascinating review of not only the work of army bandsmen and women, Dr. Gleason also offers more than a glimpse of the historic city of Berlin as well as the Prussian and Nazi ghosts that still reside there.
Filled with copious detail and based on exacting and beautifully assembled notes, letters, North Star News articles, and photos, Gleason’s latest book of vivid recollections coupled with those of his bandmates promises to satisfy even the most discerning reader of Cold War and general European history. Along the way, he furnishes readers with an entertaining European and Asian travelogue with too many surprises to count.
“Elegantly and effectively written, Gleason’s latest book is chock full of fascinating incidents, insights, observations, and photos of times and environments most of us know little about. And while I have no idea how or why he kept copious notes, letters, documents, and articles for 30+ years, I am beyond glad he did.” —Burt Cohen, founding publisher, Mpls. St. Paul Magazine
298th Army Big Band, Independence Day, 1990, United States Military Liaison Mission at Potsdam. Gleason third trombone down the line.
"Happily, Professor Bruce Gleason changes focus from his well-known historical scholarship related to military musicians. He now shares his memories of the Cold War through an atypical lens as a U.S. Army bandsman. The book is a delight to read.” — John P. Langellier, Ph.D. co-author, The Drums Would Roll: A Pictorial History of U.S. Army Bands on the Frontier 1866 – 1900
“Interspersed with a multitude of photos and documents—including 30 of his penned North Star News articles—Gleason’s latest work is a fascinating read for anyone interested in military, cultural, and world history.” — Raoul Camus, author of Military Music of the American Revolution
North Star News, 18 April 1991
Specialist Gleason on West Berlin's southern border, Summer 1989: "we periodically trained on Berlin’s southern border—a bit south of Andrews Barracks. It wasn't unusual for us to see East German soldiers watching us watch them. I recall waving periodically, but I don't recall a response."
"A fascinating exploration of one man’s love of music and its history. Gleason writes with insight and compassion about his personal journey. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!” — Matt Goldman, New York Times bestselling author of Gone to Dust
"Sandwiched between the two worlds of public-school music teacher and university professor, Bruce Gleason’s memoir of being a military musician is a joyful whiplashing journey through the unexpected.” — Jari Villanueva, principal trumpeter emeritus of the U.S. Air Force Band, founder of Taps Across America