The Fighting Bunch by Chris DeRose

The full title says it all: The Fighting Bunch: The Battle of Athens and How World War II Veterans Won the Only Successful Armed Rebellion Since the Revolution.

This is the remarkable story of the fight for a fair election in Athens, McMinn County, Tennessee. Since 1936, the “machine” had dominated all elections in McMinn County, including the sheriff's race. Voters brave enough to appear on election day faced intimidation from armed deputies both inside and outside polling stations. Some voters were prevented from casting ballots, while others were monitored to ensure they voted for the "desired" candidates. Underage voters supporting the “right” candidates were allowed to vote, and ballot boxes were openly stuffed. Those who protested the unfair practices faced threats, false arrests, or violence. Judges and officials were bribed by the “machine,” and any protests to authorities only led to reprisals. As a result, the “machine" candidates always secured overwhelming victories.

Returning World War II veterans were shocked that the freedoms they had fought for in Europe were being denied to citizens in McMinn County, USA. In 1946, they formed a GI Ticket to run against the “machine” candidates. They promised the citizens of Athens and McMinn County a fair election, where each of their votes would be counted as cast, and the government they chose would be elected. However, the “machine” was not willing to let that happen. They brought in over 250 armed police, state troopers, and others who would do their bidding to ensure an election victory. The only way to win was to fight fire with fire… and violence erupted.

Chris DeRose has done a top-notch job researching this somewhat hidden story, tracking down descendants of the major players and uncovering previously unknown records. He traces some of the GIs through their experiences in World War II while keeping us informed about what was happening at home in McMinn County. It is a well-written book about the courage to stand tall and overcome violent resistance. While situations like these may have led to feuds and revenge spanning generations in other places, here we find it is ultimately a story of reconciliation and peace.

Note: Contains 2 or 3 cases of profanity.

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