American Soldier

When we left the tent, I hopped up on the back of a Humvee to congratulate the Marines. “In my entire life,” I said, as the vehicle surged forward, “I have never seen anything like you. You’re taking care of the mission. You’re taking care of each other. You’re acting like Marines. I won’t make a long speech here. I just want you to know that if I had a son I’d want him to be a Marine.” (American Soldier, P. 521)

“Twenty-two months ago, the United States of America-in fact, the free world-looked into the face of evil. We came on that day to recognize our vulnerability, and the world came to recognize America-with attitude.

Our nation’s changed. We’ve been blessed with leadership that evidences character and moral courage, depth of resolve seldom seen. We see in our country today evidence of a core value that, in my view, was dormant for a time: patriotism. Constant, deep patriotism by those who salute the flag, and by those who wave the flag…

And we see love, we see appreciation, and we see caring. We see support for our men and women in uniform-selfless men and women, who continue today to answer the call. We mourn the loss of those who have given their lives in the cause of freedom…

I said recently that America stands at a crease in history-two hundred and twenty-five plus years behind us, we ask ourselves, what will the next two hundred and twenty-five years bring?

We’re reminded every day by the loss of brave men and women who serve in the global war on terrorism that freedom isn’t free… (American Soldier, P.535)

Freedom is worth whatever it takes. Future generations, I predict, will continue to pay the price for freedom, in this wonderful, this magnificent experiment we call democracy.” (American Soldier, P.536)

I just finished reading General Tommy Franks book “American Soldier.” It took me a little longer than expected as it is just over 500 pages. I couldn’t quite finish it in one sitting. If you are dead tired of this Kerry crap surrounding his Vietnam experience I suggest you pick up this book and read about a real American hero. He covers most of his Vietnam experience in the first 52 pages, but could have easily, and engrossingly, covered his Vietnam experience in 500 plus pages also.

I would consider the book to be apolitical unless you think that killing terrorists is a political statement. I have nothing negative to say about the book. I found myself unable to put it down. It gives a glimpse into a world most of us don’t even know exists. It reads like a Clancy Novel but the information revealed is enlightening as to the capabilities, strength, bravery, and honor of our armed forces. It’s a mandatory read prior to casting your vote in the next election.

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