Howdy Colonel, I started reading 03/09/16. I only got to page 14, but I was here by myself laughing and the dogs were looking at me like I’d lost my mind. My entry into the Marine Corps was very similar to yours and I cannot help but chuckle thinking back 45 years.

On 3/10/16 at 2126, I got to page 236. At 2255 on 03/12/16, I finished the book. Needless to say, I accomplished nothing else today. The great reviews I read were all true plus some. I’m not sure I am capable of writing a review to do your book justice, but I may attempt it in the future. I will say this though, I have never read a book where I busted out laughing at some places and my eyes broke out in a sweat in others—many times. It was an absolute masterpiece!

Jordan Point Marina, the James and Appomattox Rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay were some of my favorite boating places many years ago.

Two names that stuck out in your book were Gen. J.C. Fegan and Col. R. H. Thompson. Maj. Gen. Fegan meritoriously promoted me to Sergeant for being the honor graduate of my drill instructor class. As the honor graduate, I was allowed to pick which recruit training battalion I wanted to go to. I didn’t know much about any of them so I asked around. The consensus was “don’t go to first, the CO is a tyrant, and he’ll run you to death.” That’s what I asked for and that’s what I got. I loved it there and never had any problems.

I don’t have the adjectives to adequately convey my thoughts, but it has to be the most inspirational book I have ever read. The country owes Marines like you and those you spoke highly of a debt of gratitude for you service and sacrifice. I am honored to make your acquaintance sir!

Semper Fi! Mike

Thank you very much Mike, I am truly humbled by your comments. However, I must add that you should certainly include yourself in your comment about this country owing a debt of gratitude. You sir, would be at the very top of that list

Originally posted 2016-04-02 16:47:49.