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John Kelly's Reviews > Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor
Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor
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"Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor" by Clinton Romesha is an extraordinary and gripping account that stands out as a must-read. This true story is a page-turner, captivating and intense, as it delves into the harrowing events of the Battle of Keating in 2009. Romesha and the Black Knight Troop of Red Platoon were preparing to shut down Command Outpost (COP) Keating, one of the most remote and inaccessible US military bases in Afghanistan. Just as they were nearing completion, the Taliban launched a major assault, sparking a fourteen-hour battle that resulted in a hard-won victory at the cost of eight soldiers' lives.
Romesha, who led both the defense and counterattack, earned the Medal of Honor for his bravery, and "Red Platoon" is his firsthand account of this intense battle. Reading this book over Memorial Day weekend was a profound experience, a fitting tribute to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. The Battle of Keating was unfamiliar to me, and the sheer intensity and effort it took for those at Keating to overcome hostile forces and reclaim the base is almost mind-bending.
"Red Platoon" is an immersive, detailed, and graphic read, deeply emotional and eye-opening. It meticulously focuses on the battle, moment by moment, while also exploring the lives of the soldiers involved, allowing readers to connect with them on a personal level. The book is well-researched, offering multiple perspectives—Romesha's own point of view, the viewpoints of his men on the ground, and accounts of the actions taken 200 miles away and 20,000 feet above by pilots and drones supporting the soldiers.
The realism of this book is unparalleled, capturing the essence of active combat. It reads like an action movie, but the sobering realization that these events actually happened brings a profound depth to the narrative. Romesha's deep personal knowledge, firsthand experience, vivid stories, and genuine dialogue make for a well-written and powerful account.
"Red Platoon" is a testament to bravery, camaraderie, and the unselfish giving of oneself for country and countrymen in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. I don’t say this often, but this book is an absolute must-read.
Romesha, who led both the defense and counterattack, earned the Medal of Honor for his bravery, and "Red Platoon" is his firsthand account of this intense battle. Reading this book over Memorial Day weekend was a profound experience, a fitting tribute to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. The Battle of Keating was unfamiliar to me, and the sheer intensity and effort it took for those at Keating to overcome hostile forces and reclaim the base is almost mind-bending.
"Red Platoon" is an immersive, detailed, and graphic read, deeply emotional and eye-opening. It meticulously focuses on the battle, moment by moment, while also exploring the lives of the soldiers involved, allowing readers to connect with them on a personal level. The book is well-researched, offering multiple perspectives—Romesha's own point of view, the viewpoints of his men on the ground, and accounts of the actions taken 200 miles away and 20,000 feet above by pilots and drones supporting the soldiers.
The realism of this book is unparalleled, capturing the essence of active combat. It reads like an action movie, but the sobering realization that these events actually happened brings a profound depth to the narrative. Romesha's deep personal knowledge, firsthand experience, vivid stories, and genuine dialogue make for a well-written and powerful account.
"Red Platoon" is a testament to bravery, camaraderie, and the unselfish giving of oneself for country and countrymen in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. I don’t say this often, but this book is an absolute must-read.
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