2 comments about Faith in the Fog of War: Let us Die to Make Men Free.

1. After finishing Cpt. Plekenpol's first book, I immediately picked up the second, and was instantly captured again by his stories of war and God. This sequel has more intense stories of his time in Iraq, which makes it a real page turner. The applications from the stories will meet you where you are, and encourage you to keep fighting through whatever life is throwng at you! I would recommend this book to anyone who would like to get a firsthand account of what Iraq is REALLY like, or who needs some inspiration in their day to day life.



2. Once again Capt. Chistopher Plekenpol reaches down deep to stir your heart with more stories from war with Christ at the center. Writing with the ability to bring you face to face with the battles in your own life, Chris challenges you to look closely at your faith. Through the stories of life in war and the opportunity for personal reflection, you can't help but be changed.

5 comments about I Could Never Be So Lucky Again.

1. I was suprised by how good this book was. What makes it good are the many interesting stories detailing a life in aviation in both the civilian and military spheres. What makes it great is that Doolittle's personality comes through on every page, and he's a guy you like spending time with. Not only a war hero and innovator in aviation, this memoir shows Doolittle to have been a thoughtful and philosophical man with a keen intellect, sensitive to the world and people around him. This perspective allows him to not only report on what he's seen and done, but to intelligently comment on it. His depth of character makes this book well worth reading, and it is certainly one of the most memorable autobiographies I have read, inside our outside the war genre.



2. This is a non fiction account of one of americas greatest aviators.....one of the ten best books I have ever read!



3. "I Could Never Be So Lucky Again" is the personal memoir of James Harold (Jimmy) Doolittle as told to Carroll Glines. Jimmy Doolittle was simply the foremost aviator of his generation.
   
   No one else even comes close.
   
   He was born in Alameda, CA in 1896, the son of a carpenter. He spent much of his childhood in Nome, AK. His parents split up and he and his mother moved to Los Angeles. As a child he was taught boxing to properly channel his pugnacious disposition. He attended Manual Arts High School and was initially a mediocre student.
   
   In another book, Frank Capra describes Manual Arts as the school that got the students Los Angeles High School didn't want. Interestingly enough both the famous movie director Frank Capra and Jimmy Doolittle were classmates as well as gymnastics team members. This high school was pivotal in Doolittle's life. It was where he met Josephine Daniels. Josephine was at the top of their class. Doolittle modified his behavior becoming a better student and goal oriented in order to be worthy of Josephine.
   
   Jimmy became an Army aviator. He immediately displayed considerable talent along with a wild streak which aggravated his commanding officer. Fortunately Mrs. Doolittle proved to be a moderating influence on her husband. Along with his flying excellence, LT. Doolittle earned one of the first doctorates in Aeronautical Sciences from MIT. He led a team that standardized aircraft control panels. Doolittle was the first to make an all instrument flight, taking off and landing his plane (within feet of the take-off point) while the cockpit windows were covered.
   
   He set numerous aviation records and won every major air race. Despite this, he remained a 1st LT in the Air Force. Peacetime promotions were slow. Even with his air race winnings, he needed more money to support his family. He accepted an executive position with Royal Dutch Shell.
   
   Doolittle returned to active duty as Lieutenant Colonel. In this capacity he planned, executed and led a bombing attack on Tokyo. This was the only time land based bombers were launched from aircraft carriers. Most of the planes did drop their bombs over Tokyo. It was also the first successful attack on the Japanese home islands in recorded history. However none of the planes survived the mission and Doolittle was ordered back to Washington.
   
   Instead of a court martial, he was promoted to Brigadier General and awarded the Medal of Honor.
   
   This may seem like the reviewer has told the whole book but don't worry there's a lot more for the reader to enjoy. The book is well written, never drags and sets a comfortable pace. It is full of interesting stories and facts. Mr. Glines has a proven track record as aviation historian and his expertise shows.
   
   Any money spent on this book would be well spent.



4. This book is for the fans of "The Greatest Generation"-type books. Both Patton and Macarthur got cinematic limelight, but we hear less about Admiral Nimitz, and even less about Doolittle. This book completes the Temple of the World War II Titans.
   
   As I read, two things impressed me. First was Doolittle's down-to-earth and conversational style. I felt like he was sitting next to me, chatting on the on the golf course, and just reminiscing between tees. The second was the drastic changes in flight that occurred during his fourscore and ten years. He saw aviation from the Wrights brothers to the Space Shuttle. All in one lifetime!
   
   I was also surprised how involved he was in developing aviation technology--he had a hand in the modern cockpit instrumentation. Things such as the artificial horizon, radar, and the dashboard layout came, in part, from him.
   
   Other surprising things were behind-the-scene info Billy Mitchell, supply problem in WWII, and also the three friendly fire incident he was involved with. It puts a perspective on the current conflagration.
   
   In order to round out the book, you need two supplementals. The first is to see "Patton." Doolittle provided the air cover for Old Blood and Guts, and the book contains many references and quotes from Patton. Yes, he was accurately portrayed in the movie, except for his voice. Doolittle mention he had a high, almost feminine quality to his voice, which explains his potty tongue.
   
   The second is to read "Catch-22." Yes, Heller is writing about serving under Doolittle. As I read, I wondered if Dreedle=Doolittle.
   
   This book is even-tampered in its approach to war. It is not as idealized as John Wayne, but did not swerve into the demoralizing MASH or Platoon.



5. I really enjoyed this book. Doolittle was your classic underachiever in school and had what some could call a troubled youth. This book paints the picture of a guy who overcomes those shortcomings to excell in life. Along the way he provides a few hints on how to be more effective in your own life. A great view into one of Americas true heros.

5 comments about Long Rifle: A Sniper's Story in Iraq and Afghanistan.

1. Congratulations Mr. LeBleu! This book gives a unique perspective into a "taboo" art of the military few can comprehend. As I'm sure, you expected, the "haters and experts" have chimed in. So-called paper "snipers" and most civilians(including REMFs) will find it hard to place themselves in your shoes as they read of the trials and tribulations. This being said, I applaud you for your service to our country, your willingness to share your experiences and insights and your dedication to your friends and their legacies. As a proud American and veteran, I salute you and all REAL veterans who have and are serving this great country. Thank you!



2. As a Marine Scout-Sniper has been around for some time I would say this book is at best greatly exaggerated. The author shows a surprising lack of knowledge of weapons and calibers and the events he claims to have participated in. I don't care that he is not a Bush fan btw. I don't like Bush either and don't know many combat vets who do. Anyway, there are just to many things in this book that are factually wrong or don't ring true.



3. This book was extremely powerful and poignant. I laughed, I cried. It is a frighteningly accurate depiction of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. What else would you expect from someone who has been there and done that? It is the memoirs of one man's journey through this horrible thing called war and truly brings to light the sacrifice that our brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, sons and daughters, are really making for this country. Kudos to the author for having the courage to put his very personal experiences of loss, sacrifice and love for his country into writing for the world to see. That takes amazing courage. Most people who have been there and done that have absolutely no desire to relive the experience even within the confines of their own minds let alone in such a public venue as a book. My hat is off to you. You are one truly courageous and selfless man.



4. I absolutely hate reading but I picked up this book and was hooked. My wife almost fell over when I told her to be quiet because I was reading. Very straight forward writing style. The author pulls no punches. Having been there myself I can attest to the accuracy of this book. It definitely shows what it is really like for service members deployed to combat zones. Thanks for having the courage to put your experiences into writing for the world to see.



5. I chanced onto this book and bought it based on the Military service of the author. Big mistake. About every 20 pages be prepared for an anti Bush Diatribe. Everything from small unit tactics to Thanksgiving dinner is blamed on the Administration. Mr. Lebleu with his vast Special Operations experience should by now be aware that Direct Action is not the only tool in the USASOC toolbox. The book touches very little on sniping and if that is what you are after take a miss. All that being said Mr. Lebleu is entitled to his opinion. I thank him for his service. Check out Sniper One instead. Great Book.

5 comments about To The Limit: An Air Cav Huey Pilot in Vietnam.

1. This is the best book about Vietnam helicopter piloting that I have ever read. Mr Johnson makes you feel as if you are sitting next to him in the cockpit of a Huey. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in helicopters or the Vietnam experience.



2. The episode about flying a Huey with food and ammo into the midst of my surrounded battalion, 2/12th Cav, just outside Hue brought back a lot of memories. We wouldn't have survived the day without that support. I describe what it was like on the ground, but it was just as bad in the air.[[ASIN:1591144345 Lost Battalion of Tet: The Breakout of 2/12th Cavalry at Hue Still, thanks to some brave and daring pilots and crews, we survived. I never could determine how many helicopters and crews were lost trying to help us. Whatever the case, they will never be forgotten by those who were there and survived.



3. I have read several good books by VietNam era helicopter pilots and this is the best so far. Mr. Johnson has a knack of putting the reader in the seat next to him and makes us realize just how dangerous his job was. I particularly enjoyed his use of flashbacks to his flight training days and how he worked them into the moment. It is a wonder that any of the Army helicopter crews survived a full tour. Heroes all. Highly recommended



4. It was 5 years ago since I was first introduced to the legendary helicopter named "Huey". She is a lovely aircraft which teachs you the helicopter flight and also forgiving one.
   
   I like to thank Mr.Johnson because he had let me know why this helicopter which I am lucky enough to fly with is called legendary. As a military helicopter pilot I am thrilled to read every page, every line. Tom A. Johnson did a great job, he conveyed the past, he conveyed the priceless experience about emergencies. Furthermore, I felt as if I dated back to Vietnam Era and I was one of the pilot on his formation.
   
   I sincerely hope to meet Vietnam Huey Pilots and I am so eager to listen their stories. Land safely Guys,whenever&wherever.
   
   Cem KURKCU
   FW&RW Army Pilot



5. An engrossing, fast moving story of a 1st CAV warrant officers experiences mid 1967-1968. Tom does a great job of explaining the elements of helicopter flight and flying tactics. The year he experienced had a high degree of combat, frequently against NVA, rather than VC. He writes well, has a story to tell, and tells it well.
   
   I've read some other helicopter pilot's stories who served in the same III Corps AO I did in 1967 (with an assault helicopter unit, but not as an air crewman). The intensity level written about here is yet another level above what we were experiencing pre-Tet.
   
   Like all the warrants I remember, he saw himself as a pilot rather than an officer, and measured others by their piloting skills rather than their rank. We enlisted men loved them for that. Officers with real skills (not surprisingly, the minimum AFTQ score - equivalent to an IQ score - for a WOC was higher than for an officer candidate).
   
   I think you'll find this book a real page turner.

No comments about Through the Maelstrom: A Red Army Soldier's War on the Eastern Front, 1942-1945 (Modern War Studies).

5 comments about Blood Red Snow: The Memoirs of a German Soldier on the Eastern Front.

1. Having just read this book, I have to say I'm not convinced of the reality of this author's claims. Supposedly 'purposely' not identifying his own unit was only the first hint that gave me the impression of a tall tale.
   
   I could be wrong (hope I am), but I'm sadly not convinced by this one.



2. It's hard not to feel sorry for Gunter Koschorrek. He's 18 years old, it's October 1942 (the second winter of Hitler's ill-fated invasion of the USSR), and his replacement battalion has been assigned to Stalingrad. As the Wehrmacht pounds that shattered city, the Germans don't know it yet, but they've already lost the war. It's only a matter of time.
   
   Koschorrek doesn't know it either. He arrives in Stalingrad, full of youthful enthusiasm, determined to fight bravely for Fuhrer, Volk, und Vaterland. But the bitterly cold weather, supply problems, and relentless Russian attacks soon change that. By the end of his first deployment, Koschorrek is determined only to survive.
   
   Survive he does -- barely -- and after recuperating from his wounds and a stint fighting partisans in Italy, he's back on the Eastern Front. Things have gotten worse. The Germans are in a fighting retreat from Russia, and Koschorrek is there every terrifying, horrible step of the way.
   
   This is where Blood Red Snow shines. Koschorrek gives a detailed "boots on the ground" look at the latter days of Operation Barbarossa. He explains what it's like to fight on an ever-shifting front line, retreating through viscous mud on murderously flat steppes, beside men who are sometimes paralyzed by fear and sometimes full of lunatic courage, against an enemy that seems as unstoppable as the Russian winter.
   
   As a plainspoken fighting man's look at the German-Soviet war -- and as an addendum to the "big-picture" books that pontificate about the grand strategies and politics of WW II -- Blood Red Snow is highly recommended.
   
   I do have two complaints about the book. First, it's shoddily typeset and edited, with numerous typos and punctuation errors. It also a British-centric translation, so the Germans, annoyingly, call each other "blokes" and "chaps."
   
   Second, Koschorrek's credibility is sometimes undermined by public-relations puffery. For example, early in the book, Koschorrek is shocked (shocked!) when an officer kills wounded Russians instead of allowing them to surrender. Such behavior is un-German, Koschorrek suggests. And then there's Katya, a young Russian woman -- with "cornflower" eyes -- from a village they briefly occupy, who cries when her German soldier "friends" are killed.
   
   Maybe Koschorrek is telling the truth. Maybe not. It's understandable that he would portray his fellow German soldiers in the most flattering light. Not every Nazi was a sadist. Some Russians did greet the Germans as liberators. Nobody is a villain in his own story.
   
   But, curiously, for a book about a Nazi soldier, the words "National Socialism" don't appear until page 255. The words "concentration camp" aren't mentioned until page 264 (and then only in the context of anti-Nazi "dissidents").
   
   Even if Koschorrek wants only to offer an ordinary soldier's view of the war, he can't ignore the fact that he was fighting for one of the most murderous regimes in the history of the world. He might claim he was pulling the trigger for patriotism, or for his fellow soldiers, or simply to stay alive. But the fact remains, he was a soldier for the tyrannical government that started WW II and murdered millions of people in cold blood.
   
   For that reason, ultimately, it *is* hard to feel sorry for Gunter Koschorrek -- even though I enjoyed his book and admired him for surviving the hell he so vividly describes.



3. I enjoyed this book and I recommend it. I've read "black edelweiss", "the good soldier", and "the forgotten soldier". I recommend forgotten soldier 1st, blood red snow 2nd.



4. "Blood Red Snow" is another excellent book written about the German version of War in the East, through yet another direct participant in that war (this book is "one more" excellent - German perspective from the many great books on WWII, within the Amazon publishings).
   It's important to know one basic element about WWII before diving into these many WWII readings. That is; 7 out of 10 Germans killed in combat in WWII were killed on the Russian Front, not fighting American, British, or the Western Allies.
   Regardless of how it is discussed in public today regarding the German Army in WWII, these books (there are many good ones on Amazon), help to offer the genuine insight to what these men and the various nations at war, went through during the amazing battles in the East. Many millions of dead "On both sides" were consumed in this cauldron of fire in the East. That alone is something that is hard to balance and comprehend, in your mind.
   I have purchased books from Amazondotcom - on the Soviet perspective too. Another amazing learning, when you realize the many Soviet languages within the USSR, that had to be overcome, just to fight one battle. Simply moving the many Soviet armies forward as they pushed to take back their lands, in some sort of organized fashion,.... through the language challenge, was a struggle beyond words. The Soviets really did not fully get their arms around their language challenge, until the war was almost over (1944). Then to understand, how the soviets had to devise ways to speak with each other, to fight in concert with those language barrier orders of battle, through the beginning of the war to the end, is an eye opener. You will soon have a new respect for what the Soviet Army had to do, to win their war in the East. No small effort, in and of itself. The one Soviet word,.... or better stated, "their battle cry" HORAHhhhhhhhhhh !!.... Was not only a way for the Soviets to gather courage to attack, it was a way to find their mixed language troops and people, in the fog of battle. Once found, they then had to try and continue communicating as best they could, in one generic fashion, during the heat and confusion of battle. Setting aside for now, how we are taught to think about the USSR, when you consider how they struggled with the hundreds of languages and dialects the many nations that made-up the USSR had,..... you soon realize the scope of that challenge. It is wise to consider the battle cry - HORAHhhhhhhhh as being "the one phrase" they all could understand, and the one excellent way they had to communicate with each other, for many reasons, in WWII. When you understand that the soviet soldiers were forced to attack or be shot, this becomes an understanding about the basic soviet soldier, that requires you to know more about their day-to-day thinking and perspective on war. To take the time to understand these soviet conscripts, is to gain the vast knowledge about "the heart" of the war in the East. Again,.....Reading is learning.
   These newly published or republished books on the German Army shows, that everything that has been written in the past about their discipline, training, and camaraderie are under-stated. Did you know that the German Army boot camp before WWII and leading up to it, could be more than 5 months long (depending on what branch they would serve in, during combat)? They were among the best-of-the-best Armys of the world, at that time, and up to that time in history.
   It's amazing to note that these two armies (German/Soviet) fought in such harsh conditions,... for so long. Just to understand the weather conditions during battles (blizzards, mud, rain), is to understand one small element of their war. A night in the dark and vast Soviet lands, under 40 or 60 degrees below freezing temperatures and winds, is a sobering wake-up call, in iteslf. Then to imagine that they did this day-after-day, and night-after-night through the better part of four winters, is almost an anticlimatic thought. That to me, is personally - unimaginable. For many troops on both sides, they "were" in this struggle for 4 years, or until they were killed. Try to visualize sleeping outside in these extreme temperatures, for months,... without end. Even now, i want to think they (German and USSR troops) were housed in some warm cozy place at night, and only fought during the day, and always had enough to eat and drink. In reality, that thought would be far from the truth. When you consider the murderous land they fought on in the East, the failing food and ammunition supply lines that became thinner as the war went against the Germans,........ it soon becomes clear how the massive armies of Napoleon were erased in one campaign.
   I suggest that it is not too late, or too soon, to buy books like these.
   It is much better to KNOW history, than to have NO history.



5. I am fascinated and incensed by every memoir written by German serviceman. Fascinated because I am afforded an opportunity to glimpse into the personal experience of an enemy, but incensed because everyone (at least whom I've read so far) comes across like such a gentleman. For instance, author said that because one Russian soldier was unarmed he did not shoot him. He also said that he couldn't bear seeing his buddy shooting wounded Russians because he thought it was barbaric. Oh, the innocent German soldiers. Where were they in Dachau, Majdanek, Treblinka, Auschwitz, etc etc etc? How about inhumane treatment of Russian POWs or mass murders of Russian population on occupied territories? Did 26 million Russian souls perish in this war just on their own? I guess those who choose to write about their experiences either conveniently forget these parts of the story or are absolute exceptions from the norm. I tend to believe the former.
   
   I have to agree with another reviewer (Jeffrey Thurston) that the author repeatedly names a weapon that Russian soldiers use as Kalashnikov quite incorrectly. The fact that this gun was introduced at least 2 years after the war makes the reading a bit confusing and, well, discredits the story somewhat.
   
   On a side note, I guess the numerous typos should not be the focus of my review, since the book is not written by a "professional" writer. Yet one is left wondering what the editor was doing right before they cleared the final manuscript for printing.
   
   In all, I found accounts of fear that Russian attacks instilled in Germans (at least on some occasions) utmost interesting to read, including calling the T-34 a steel monster (it wasn't a heavy tank by any means). As long as you don't think too much into the details (i.e., nonexistent weapon repeatedly used by Russians, confusing some Russian and Polish words), you'll find this book an OK read.

5 comments about Boots on the Ground by Dusk: My Tribute to Pat Tillman.

1. Mary Tillman and her coauthor did their homework in writing this story of her son and the aftermath of his combat death in Afghanistan. She was as objective as anyone could expect a mother to be, and she deserves credit for the overwhelming amount of time and research devoted to finding answers. I listened to the audio book version from my perspective as a biographer and retired senior officer with 32 years in the U.S. Navy. The book impressed me on both counts.
   
   The complex writing structure especially impressed me. The authors picked an excellent staring point--when the Tillmans learned Pat's death had been a fratricide. The book then goes forward on parallel tracks, alternating present tense to move the story forward and past tense to fill in the background. I enjoyed the layered flashbacks and the challenge of piecing together the story as I listened. The anecdotes are out of order but not confusing. For example, we read about Mary's brother learning of Pat's death and going to her house before we read about her being notified of the death. Pat's selection as a pro-ball player is the final segment to complete the story of his life. I liked this arrangement because it emphasized his military career over his football career.
   
   The audio version is read by the author, which adds intimacy to the telling of the story, but her sweet, soft, slow voice quickly became boring. Because she never changed her tone, it was hard to tell when "I" referred to her or to a transcript she was reading.
   
   My only complaint about the book was the excess of meaningless dialogue and details, such as listing all the names in every scene. Instead of saying "the boys and their father," for example, she would say, "Kevin, Pat, Richard, and Patrick." We heard every "Hello, how are you?--I'm fine," and we went through step-by-stop processes such as getting up in the morning and making coffee.
   
   Although I don't for a minute believe Pat Tillman's death was a planned conspiracy, I have no difficulty in believing a cover-up was orchestrated for public relations purposes after his death. That's a sorry way to treat a family and the American public. I read through the reviews on Amazon.com to see if anyone disagreed with Mary's research or complained about her leaving out vital information. No one did. I hope she someday gets the answers she seeks.



2. the passages from the memorial services are alone worth the read, Pat Tillman was someone I had an enormous amount of respect for and his brother, Kevin and mother, carry his memory with respect and appropriate outrage.



3. This book turned out to be something of a puzzlement to me. According to its title, it is intended as a "Tribute to Pat Tillman," and the early chapters certainly bear that title out. They document a mother's trials and tribulations as she confronts an entrenched military organization in her attempt to learn the truth about when, where, how, and why her son died in Afghanistan. But there are also frequent flashbacks to Pat's earlier days. In those chapters, Pat Tillman can be seen in his true essence as the son that every mother would dearly love to have. It is clear that Pat Tillman was an exceptionally fine young man who dearly loved his life, his mother, his family, and his country; and that Pat's mother dearly loved her son.
   
   The latter half of the book, however, seems to deviate from this theme. Rather than continuing the "tribute" to Pat, amplified by such memories, it appears to document the author's frustration and anger as she struggles to determine who tried to cover-up the facts concerning his death, and at what levels of the military and/or the government it was authorized. I can't help but admire her for her efforts, but, to me at least, how and why her son died and who attempted to cover-up the facts and why are two different things. It is very easy to hypothesize any number of possible scenarios for either case, but as Mary Tillman and her family learned through this long and arduous process; chances are the truth will never be known; especially where it concerns those who instigated the cover-up and why they did it. I, for one, would very much like to know, but I don't consider that a tribute.
   
   The facts concerning the events surrounding Pat Tillman's death, however, appear to be quite clear if one is willing to accept the on-sight investigation and the interviews performed by Captain Scott within twenty-four hours of the event. But, for some inexplicable reason, the Army seems unwilling to give them any credence. To me it is obvious that Pat Tillman's death was a tragic mistake set in motion by poor decisions and inexcusable negligence, but also contingent on a remarkable sequence of events, a change in any one of which might have altered the outcome. What if the humvee hadn't broken down? Or, the platoon hadn't been split? Or, the jinga truck had been able to negotiate the road to Tit? Or, if Serial-1 hadn't missed the turn-off to Manah and, therefore, was long gone? Or, if the firing vehicle's view hadn't been obstructed causing them to cease fire just as Tillman tossed his smoke grenade? Or, if Tillman had waited just a little bit longer to ensure that firing had ceased before stepping into the open?
   
   I have often wondered why people write biographies of twenty-something actors and entertainers. What have they really accomplished? What does it matter? And, why should anyone care? Granted: Pat Tillman was a twenty-something when he died, but he is also an American hero and his life is over -- and it does matter. So I'm glad this book was written. It is unfortunate, however, that all the facts concerning his death will likely never be known.



4. This book was so good that I read it in just 2 days. It was so good that I was unable to put it down. I would recommend this book to everyone I know.



5. Mary Tillman has skillfully written a complex account of military and political blunder and deceit into which she expertly intermingles her own story and that of her family. The resulting narrative is personal, political and readable - all at the same time.
   
   Since the beginning of the war in Afghanistan over 500 American soldiers have died. Since George W. Bush invaded Iraq, in March of 2003, over 4100 have been killed and almost 4000 of those have died since the president's infamous declaration of "Mission Accomplished." Tillman's "Boots on the Ground By Dusk" is the beautifully written, but gut-wrenching story of one of those soldiers.
   
   By this time, I suppose, there can be few Americans who do not understand the general outline of the Bush Administration's complex push for war in Iraq. That campaign, as it has been uncovered elsewhere, involved the deliberate use of distortion and misinformation ranging from unambiguous lies suggesting a link between Saddam Hussein and al Qaeda, to tales of the non-existent WMDs, to neocon assertions of an American democratizing mission in the middle east.
   
   The larger-scale story of the Iraq war involves, among other things, the international repercussions of President Bush's attempt to assert American global hegemony in the 21st century. In stark contrast, this very personal book, written by the mother of pro-footballer-turned-soldier, Pat Tillman, is connected to that war at only the most basic level; that of the individual soldier. Nevertheless, as the book unfolds, it reveals a web of deception that matches the distortions at the international level. It is as if everyone connected to this administration's war effort is simply unable to tell the truth. It is as if dishonesty and manipulation have become part of their DNA.
   
   The book begins with Mrs. Tillman's account of staring into a fire pit. She is sitting in front of her home, the home in which she raised her children, smoking, listening to the crackling logs, and thinking, "I light my cigarette wondering what I would do if I couldn't smoke, if I couldn't blow out my anger, frustration, and sense of crippling loss into the night." It is a stunning description of the isolation and helplessness that accompanies unbearable loss, but the book that follows is, in one sense, an answer to her question. When blowing out anger and loss "into the night" was no longer enough she would ask questions, investigate contradictions, and write.
   
   In the earliest pages the reader is introduced to the extended Tillman family and how they become the people they are. They share ideas and debate issues. The attacks of 9/11 hit them hard and, in response, the two oldest sons, Pat and Kevin, decide to join the Army. It is not a popular decision. The youngest brother, Richard, reacts with anger, others are worried, and still others confused. Kevin is just about to leave a life in minor league baseball, but Pat will have to give up a promising career in pro football with the Arizona Cardinals. Pat and Kevin Tillman both become Army Rangers. On April 22, 2004 Pat is killed in Afghanistan.
   
   Initially the family is presented a version of Pat's death that has him leading a charge up a hill. That story is soon contradicted by news (first heard from a reporter!) that Pat may have been killed by "friendly fire." The army then constructs an official version of death by fratricide, but as the reports come in they are full of contradiction and ambiguity. The family, led by the author, demands answers. After intensive investigation and vigorous questioning the official version of death by "friendly fire" is altered. As more reports are written and, as the family investigates each the story, the official version is altered again and again. Tillman convincingly demonstrates that none of the distortions are accidental. Even the narrative that accompanies Pat Tillman's posthumous silver star is shown to be deliberately false. Despite the fact that the story involves detailed descriptions of volumes of official reports and two congressional hearings the book reads like a good mystery with the reader anticipating the next twist, the next revelation.
   
   Appropriately, it all begins with a quote from Charles A. Beard: "When it is dark enough, you can see the stars." In Mary Tillman's examination of this very dark incident in her life and, by extension, her examination of this very dark stain on contemporary American leadership, she manages to reveal some real stars. A mother who does not give up. Family members able to support each other in horribly difficult times. And Pat Tillman, a man of honesty and honor, who deserved better treatment from his government. "Boots on the Ground By Dusk" is an important contribution to our understanding of what has become of us in an era of politics by propaganda, but it is also a wonderful story of a family dedicated to finding the truth no matter what.

5 comments about The Volunteer: The Incredible True Story of an Israeli Spy on the Trail of International Terrorists.

1. This was an incredibly exciting and informative book. Although absolutely authentic, the biography at times read like a fictitious thriller. I would highly recommend this account of the Mossad to anyone who studies this region or anyone interested in spy novels. The imagery is terific, and Ross does a terrific job of placing his work in the context of world history between 1990 and 2002. I would have enjoyed more details on his different excursions, but then again much of his story is confidential.



2. This Book is simply AMAZING! I've read lots of books regarding Israel and Mossad, and this is one of the BEST!.
   
   It's a Must!
   
   Long Live Israel!.



3. This is such an incredible (and true!) spy-story. The writing is sharp, and keeps you turning the page. I usually don't read non-fiction narratives, but I loved this book. It is such a great story, and it is so well written, that you can't do anything but be caught up in this tale.



4. Unlike the obvious fiction of "Vengeance" (the pseudo-history on which the movie Munich was based) this one was indubitably written by one who really has "been there, done that." It's a fine book unencumbered by the sort of purple prose that often infects memoirs of first-time authors, though it does contain an inexplicable howler about the thoroughly mythical supposed efficacy of Black Talon ammunition.
   
   As for the Publisher's Weekly review, it's politically-correct drivel that disgraces the Amazon web site.
   
   Anyone who is interested in what really went on should buy this book.



5. "Volunteer" is the story of Michael Ross. He was formerly a Canadian citizen who had served in the Canadian Army. He went on a hitchhiking tour and wound up in Israel. He moved into a kibbutz and married an
   Israeli girl. He then served in the Isareli army(IDF). After his service in the IDF he was recruited by Mossad. He describes in detail the hard
   training he had to endure. His first assignment was the Caesarea. During
   the Gulf War he had a hand in marking a ship that was shipping scuds from
   North Korea to Syria. On his next assignment he slipped into Iran to make
   an assessment of the Iranian nuclear program. The book points out the deep
   hatred that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadine jad has for Israel. It also
   points out the Hezbollah-Iranian connection. Ross was next sent to Khartoum in Sudan to target Hezbollah members. Khartoum was known as Terror Central. Osama bin-Ladin used to be part of the network in Sudan.
   Ross was next promoted to the Tevel Department in the Mossad. He had a role catching a Hezbollah agent named Ramez who was based in the Detroit area. There was also a section concerning Jonathan Pollard. Ross also was
   active in catching the terrorists who set off truck bombs in Nairobi,Kenya,and Oar Es Salaam. This proved to be a very informative book by an actual spy.

2 comments about Radioman: An Eyewitness Account of Pearl Harbor and World War II in the Pacific.

1. Radioman is truly amazing - I enjoyed every page and will read it again and again. I can't wait to give my Dad his copy as I am certain he will enjoy it as much as I have. I was left with a feeling of understanding, not just for the World War II veterans, but for all of our military men and women. The author has captured a perspective of an era I have never seen before, not in any of my history classes or conversations I've had. And, all of the notes to refer to - I think I've learned more about World War II from this "masterpiece" than anything else I've been exposed to.



2. This is a well written, absorbing account of the experiences of one of our vanishing WWII veterans. This would make a great gift, especially to someone of the WWII generation.

5 comments about Quartered Safe Out Here: A Harrowing Tale of World War II.

1. It is not often you see this many reviews all of which are 5 stars so when one does you pretty much know that this is a special book. All the reviews for the book are spot on. It rings of authenticity, something that it is usually difficult for a writer do but when you finish this book you have a feeling about this man and his experiences with Nine Section that, at least for me, I never felt before and I have read many military history books. Nine Section is 10 men, like an American army squad led my a non-commissioned officer who is more of of the men rather than an officer. There is no big picture here, just what faced this one small group of men in a very difficult time and place.
   
   Fraser's description of the 50th anniversary of VJ Day and his reluctant participation was very moving.
   
   His commentary on the "spirtual hypochondria" of the modern world was absolutely accurate. (pg. 89-90) I loved his comment on intrusive modern television journalists when he said, "I can regret, though, that there were no modern television "journalists" transported back in time to ask Grandarse (a Nine Section soldier): "How die you FEEL when you saw Corporal Little shot dead?" I would have like to his his reply."



2. Even when you want them too...
   
   Ok, just kidding. But that is the sort of cynical joke old Fraser would appreciate.
   Old soldiers tales are a neglected genre but one thousands of years old, a genre that has produced such classics as Anabasis, and Seven Pillers of Wisdom. While Quartered Safe Out Here does not rise to that level, it is a gem in it's own right.
   If there is one word that describes this book, it is authenticity. Fraser sounds like an old soldier. The book reads, not like an intellectual telling of the strange customs of His Majesties Servants, but like what you would expect a veteran telling tales at a pub to sound like. A comparatively well educated, Old Soldier, but an Old Soldier nonetheless and no different from others.
   
   In this book, Fraser tells of his service with the Border Regiment. These are as he puts it, "A martial race of men"; with the fatalistic acceptance of bloodshed, grimly practical outlook on war, and piratical spirit of the Anglo-scottish frontier brigands of yore. As well as the constant grumbling which sounds most soldierly. Fraser mixes with his comrades well. He is often harsh in his outlook, but he does not glorify war and certainly does not pretend it is enjoyabale. Nor does he display the fashionable horror at war which in some writers seems to be an obligatory assurance to the reader rather then an expression of a writer's true outlook. War is a job to Fraser and it was as well that it be done right. He seems to have a rather grim personality and a cynical sense of irony which may grate on some, but sounds like one made coarse by the stress of battle. In other words he sounds believable. His means of narrative is also believable. He gives scenes as they appear in his memory, some banal, some humorous or carrying a bit of pathos. And sometimes even a minor degree of romance(yes, statistically it has to happen like the movies SOMETIMES)as when he hears a man singing the regimental song during an assault on a Japanese position, and comments that he really did hear it sung in battle and that was something worth telling about. Of course Fraser follows by telling how one of his comrades told the singer to shut up. So much for romance.
   
   Those who are uneasy with the values of previous generations might find it hard to take. Fraser is comfortable with his dislike of the Japanese, approves of the British Empire, and has an innate dislike of change and though some readers can accept that not all will. Like Tommy Atkins in Kipling's poem, he could be a rude fellow sometimes but he was there when he was needed and our generation owes something to him.
   
   In any case it was a well written work, that shows a convincing picture of what it was like to do service in those times. Many writings have been written which told of the lives of soldiers. This one tells what it is to be a soldier. And tells it well and enjoyably. To think of Quartered Safe Out Here as giving profound messages would be wrong. Fraser is not shy about his opinions but his opinions, whatever their value, have been heard before and are not either more or less valid because of his experiences. Rather, Fraser gives an authentic picture of what it was like. You can feel your feet ache from the endless marching, feel the weight of your knapsack on your back, smell the smell of death and experience the many and various fears that constitute a soldier's life. It is a great book and well worth your time.



3. 2001's "Quartered Safe Out Here" is George MacDonald Fraser's superbly written and moving recollection of his service wtih the British 14th Army in the Burma Theater at the close of the Second World War.
   
   Fraser was a 19 year-old private, fresh from a "public" school education and assigned to an infantry section full of seasoned veterans in one of the most dangerous combat zones of the war. A journalist and novelist later in life, Fraser didn't get around to writing about his wartime experiences until half a century after the fact. As a result, his narrative is admittedly episodic. Fraser makes an effort to place his often vivid recollections in context provided by the official history, but this account is in no way meant to be a unit or campaign history.
   
   Fraser is that unfortunately rare type, an infantry private with real writing skills. His section mates become living, breathing characters to the reader. His impressions of the jungle, the heat, the monsoons, and combat with the Japanese are heartbreakingly real. The respect of the 14th Army for its commander, future Field Marshal Bill Slim, shines through. Fraser's portraits of British, Indian, and Gurkha soldiers are by turns funny and awe-inspiring in capturing their stotic professionalism under conditions of boredom and terror. His observations of the attitudes and expectations of his fellow soldiers provide some pungent perspective on just how much the world has changed since 1945.
   
   "Quartered Safe Out Here" is very highly recommended as a superbly written and brutally honest account of a forgotten theater of World War II, a reading experience for the casual reader and the student of history alike.



4. If you have any interest in WWII (or any military conflict), buy this book. It is one of the best, a great read, and great history. One of George MacDonald Fraser's finest works.



5. George McDonald Fraser always has been an excellent, although irreverent writer. This his last is also his best. I could not put this book down. I only wish we could have a book of this caliber about Vietnam.