Summaries of books about Military History:
Horse Soldiers
The Extraordinary Story of a Band of US Soldiers Who Rode to Victory in Afghanistan
Doug Stanton
The book recounts the true story of a small group of American Special Forces who, in the wake of 9/11, teamed up with Northern Alliance fighters in Afghanistan to conduct unconventional warfare against Taliban forces. These U.S. soldiers adapted to the rugged terrain by fighting on horseback, a method of combat unfamiliar to them, ultimately contributing to significant military victories.
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The Saga of Pappy Gunn
George C. Kenney
The book chronicles the life and exploits of Paul Irvin "Pappy" Gunn, a legendary World War II pilot known for his innovative combat tactics and technical contributions to aircraft weaponry. It details Gunn's daring missions in the Pacific theater, his impact on aerial warfare, and his unwavering dedication to his fellow servicemen.
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The Giant Killer
The incredible true story of the smallest man to serve in the U.S. Military—Vietnam veteran Green Beret Captain Richard J. Flaherty - Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars, & 2 Purple Hearts.
David A. Yuzuk
The book chronicles the life of Richard J. Flaherty, who, despite standing at just 4 feet 9 inches tall, became a highly decorated Green Beret captain during the Vietnam War. It details his extraordinary military service, including his acts of bravery that earned him numerous commendations, and explores the challenges he faced due to his stature.
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Stalingrad
The Fateful Siege: 1942-1943
Antony Beevor
The book provides a detailed account of the Battle of Stalingrad, from its strategic importance to the harrowing experiences of soldiers and civilians. It combines military analysis with personal narratives to illustrate the brutal combat and its pivotal role in turning the tide of World War II.
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On Desperate Ground
The Marines at The Reservoir, the Korean War's Greatest Battle
Hampton Sides
The book recounts the harrowing story of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War, where a vastly outnumbered group of American Marines faced extreme cold and fierce Chinese forces. It details their legendary fight for survival and the extraordinary leadership and bravery that led to their eventual breakout and evacuation.
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An Army at Dawn
The War in North Africa, 1942-1943, Volume One of the Liberation Trilogy
Rick Atkinson
The book chronicles the United States Army's first major ground campaign of World War II in North Africa, detailing the battles, strategies, and personal stories of soldiers from the initial landings through the eventual victory. It provides a comprehensive account of the military operations, leadership decisions, and the harsh conditions faced by the Allied forces against the Axis powers.
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Command and Control
Nuclear Weapons, the Damascus Accident, and the Illusion of Safety
Eric Schlosser
The book delves into the history of nuclear weapons management and the risks associated with their deployment, focusing on a near-catastrophic accident at a missile silo in Damascus, Arkansas in 1980. It exposes the precarious balance between weapon safety and the potential for human error or technical failure within the U.S. nuclear arsenal.
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Until the Eyes Shut
Memories of a machine gunner on the Eastern Front, 1943-45
Andreas Hartinger
The book is a firsthand account of a German soldier's experiences fighting on the Eastern Front during World War II, detailing the harrowing combat, daily struggles, and psychological toll of warfare. It provides personal insights into the life of a machine gunner, his survival, and the grim reality faced by soldiers in the Wehrmacht during the final years of the conflict.
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Lions of Kandahar
The Story of a Fight Against All Odds
Rusty Bradley|Kevin Maurer
The book is a first-person account of an elite Special Forces captain and his team who fought in one of the most pivotal battles during the Afghan War. It details the intense combat and strategic operations in the Battle of Sperwan Ghar, showcasing the bravery and resilience of American soldiers against overwhelming Taliban forces.
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No Ordinary Dog
My Partner from the SEAL Teams to the Bin Laden Raid
Will Chesney|Joe Layden
The book chronicles the story of Cairo, a Belgian Malinois and military working dog, and his handler, Will Chesney, detailing their experiences together during high-stakes missions, including the raid that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. It offers an intimate look at the bond between a SEAL and his dog, and the sacrifices and triumphs they shared in the line of duty.
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