American Soldier

American Soldier
By General Tommy Franks

Janet gave me this book for Christmas to help round out my reading on the subject of Iraq. The book provides a great perspective from a Generals view. He provided a view of a person who participated in four wars in different roles. He provided a view from an average person who earned a privilege to wear four stars. I could go into my usual detail of the book to discuss controversial decisions. But this time I would rather share his poem at the conclusion of a heart felt story.

The Parable of Armageddon

There was once a land called Free, a plum surrounded by
Briars of Less. The people there, in olden times, proud
Of the Manna of Free – a curious essence known as Will.

Will, it seems, was cherished above all else in the land of
Free, as it was the armor that protected Free from the briars
Of Less. Will, as the story goes, was held in the State of
Mind in the land of Free. The true patriots of Free knew if
The State of Mind should ever falter, the Will would be Lost
And the briars of Less would engulf them all—

“I hope we never forget the value of Will”

He wrote the poem as a Major in “this mans army” at a time when Iran held Americans hostage. The poem stands on its own. Having read the book the poem holds a personal meaning. Another of his quotes worth mentioning was advise of his father: “son you don’t have to know anything to have an opinion” I would turn it on edge and say no matter what you know it’s only your opinion. I am sure many of you would cringe at book cover with an American flag and a Generals mug. So don’t read the whole book…get your self a cup of coffee and at least read the epilogue at your nearest book store. You will likely not change your opinion, but you may sleep on a little more perspective.

Thanx Janet I would have otherwise overlooked this keeper. I’ll place it next to Schwartzkoph’s and Powell’s books in my library. A General Officer…a unique breed.