With the Old Breed (E.B. Sledge)

Praised by many and used as source material for The Pacific (an HBO miniseries) , With the Old Breed is one Marine's tale of his time with the First Division, first in training, and then in action on the islands of Peleliu and Okinawa against the Japanese.  In addition to the combat itself, Sledge gives a stirring account of other aspects of warfare- being surrounded by decaying corpses, going without water and sleep, sitting for weeks in wet boots, and facing similar conditions that led thousands to lose their minds- if not their lives.

This book is deservedly well-regarded.  E.B. Sledge's account is captivating, informative, and well-written.  He doesn't hold back about anything- his own fear, the bravery (or brutality) of his comrades, the gruesome Japanese practices, and the horrifying conditions are all well and candidly described.  Noted historian John Keegan called this "one of the most arresting documents in war literature."  It's easy to see why.

I'll finish by quoting Sledge as he summarizes his experience:

War is brutish, inglorious, and a terrible waste.  Combat leaves an indelible mark on those who are forced to endure it.  The only redeeming factors were my comrades' incredible bravery and their devotion to each other.  Marine Corps training taught us to kill efficiently and to try to survive.  But it also taught us loyalty to each other- and love.  That esprit de corps sustained us. 

  Until the millenium arrives and countries cease trying to enslave others, it will be necessary to accept one's responsibilities and to be willing to make sacrifices for one's country- as my comrades did.  As the troops used to say, "If the country is good enough to live in, it's good enough to fight for."  With privilege goes responsibility.

Rating: A