Our Finest Hour: The Triumphant Spirit of the World War II Generation

LIFE magazine salutes the bravery and courage of America's World War II veterans with OUR FINEST HOUR, a special deluxe collector's edition celebrating the heroic spirit of "the greatest generation." Who better to retell the vibrant and diverse stories of World War II than LIFE, the magazine that brought news of the war to the home front, and news of home to soldiers around the world?

OUR FINEST HOUR offers stunning photography from LIFE's vast archival library--the largest collection of World War II photographs in the world. This unique book also recounts the moving and personal stories of the Americans who fought in the foxholes, on the high seas and at home. It documents how soldiers, wives, journalists and entertainers were changed by the war experience, and it describes how World War II affected life in America in every possible way--economically, politically, culturally and socially.

LIFE was an eyewitness to the heroism, unity and tragedy of the war years; LIFE remembers every private triumph and rending loss; only LIFE can bring the victory home to you.

World War II presented the United States with an impossible challenge--one that could cost countless lives in any single harrowing instant. Yet we plunged in, body and soul, and somehow found moments of tenderness and warmth.

Here are the stories of those who fought "the good war." Their voices reveal an indomitable spirit, a peculiarly American optimism, even a weary recognition of the war's unstoppable horrors. Throughout it all, U.S. citizens bucked up and carried on--at home and oversees.

The editors of LIFE are proud to bring you this moment of glory in the American experience--in the words of the participants, and in extraordinary photographs that will stay with you forever.