Adult Book Review

BY LORRIE LAYTON, BRACE BOOKS

Walk in My Combat Boots: True Stories From America’s Bravest Warriors by James Patterson and Matt Eversmann, First Sergeant, U.S. Army (Ret.)

James Patterson is an accomplished storyteller and an accomplished reporter. First Sergeant U.S. Army (Ret.) Matt Eversmann was part of Task Force Ranger, the unit depicted in the book and movie Black Hawk Down. Together, they conducted hundreds of interviews with soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, from which they constructed Walk in My Combat Boots.

These brutally honest stories allow us an insider’s look at the courage, integrity, patriotism and pain these warriors have experienced while serving our country. They share their pride in wearing the uniform, the huge range of emotions when in combat and the difficulties they encounter when returning home. A few of the heroes you meet are:

• A young single mother who figures out how she can raise her son and be the mother he needs while still flying Black

Hawks in-country • Several people who, on September 11, 2001, chose to enlist because they needed to make a difference and help protect our nation

• Those who serve as medics, risking their lives to save others

• The man who never told a soul about what he saw and did during his 20 years of service. He boxed up the stories along with his uniforms and medals. When his teenage daughter asked about his uniform she found in the attic, he realized he needed to share this with her. They created a business that salvages old uniforms and transforms them into high-end clothing and accessories. Each piece includes the story of the soldier who wore that uniform. The profits help support the families of fallen heroes.

The next time I thank a serviceman/woman for his/her service, I’ll have a much better understanding of what I’m thanking them for.

ANDERSON J. DARK MYCHELLE M. HOLLIDAY