Total Page : 416
Publisher : Penguin Non Classics
Publication Date : 2010 02 23
>> Afghanistan
A major portion of the book is dedicated to the CPT s tenure at West Point with follow on commentary reference Ranger School and follow on professional development to include IOAC
The book details combat operations in one tactical operational engagement with the bad guys Although well written there are elements of his time in Afghanistan which would be mirrored by virtually hundreds of other units operating then and now
Afghanistan is truly a challenging operational environment winning or buying the hearts and minds of the locals and at the same time attempting to discern who is bad and who is good is a continuing daunting task at all leadership levels
It is unfortunate the Army is losing fine and dedicated and combat tested officers
Other books or interest might include Not a Good Day To Die Mission Men and Me Horse Soldiers Taliban
Paktia/Khost Provinces/2003
>> A Fascinating Memoir
I found Mullaney s book totally engrossing It reads as the very personal account of a very bright young man working his way through the rigors of West Point the Rangers Oxford University and bringing his background to command of a platoon in Afghanistan Its also a story of growing up in both the military and these turbulent times Mullaney s writing is articulate and readable His candor has some people criticizing him for his treatment of his father but the point they miss is that Mullaney is willing to put his own experiences and feelings on paper not what he thinks people would like to hear Its easy for someone else to judge him but they didn t stand in his shoes There are parts of the book where I was surprised by his insights choices and decisions but that is what makes the book so personal He brings a truly unique voice to his writing
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the military and the making of a soldier our part in Afghanistan and the personal journey of a complicated teenager becoming a man
>> Incredible it took me back
Absolutely incredible book As an Academy grad a former overseas university student and an Afghan vet I feel just in saying that this was spot on in the depiction of experiences had and emotions felt Craig s description of Afghanistan gripped me leaving me literally sleepless He did a great job portraying the military experience there from the relative garrison feel of the large airfield bases to the remote dustbowls that get hit regularly
This is a story about living life to the fullest Cognizant of the world around you appreciative and anxious to make a difference Best of luck to Craig in all he does
