Stealing the General: The Great Locomotive Chase and the First Medal of Honor

Book Description

"The Great Locomotive Chase has been the stuff of legend and the darling of Hollywood. Now we have a solid history of the Andrews Raid. Russell S. Bonds' stirring account makes clear why the raid failed and what happened to the raiders."—James M. McPherson, author of Battle Cry of Freedom, winner of the Pulitzer Prize

On April 12, 1862 -- one year to the day after Confederate guns opened on Fort Sumter and started the Civil War -- a tall, mysterious smuggler and self-appointed Union spy named James J. Andrews and nineteen infantry volunteers infiltrated north Georgia and stole a steam engine called the General. Racing northward at speeds approaching sixty miles an hour, cutting telegraph lines and destroying track along the way, Andrews planned to open East Tennessee to the Union army, cutting off men and matériel from the Confederate forces in Virginia. If they succeeded, Andrews and his raiders could change the course of the war. But the General's young conductor, William A. Fuller, chased the stolen train first on foot, then by handcar, and finally aboard another engine, the Texas. He pursued the General until, running out of wood and water, Andrews and his men abandoned the doomed locomotive, ending the adventure that would soon be famous as The Great Locomotive Chase, but not the ordeal of the soldiers involved. In the days that followed, the "engine thieves" were hunted down and captured. Eight were tried and executed as spies, including Andrews. Eight others made a daring escape to freedom, including two assisted by a network of slaves and Union sympathizers. For their actions, before a personal audience with President Abraham Lincoln, six of the raiders became the first men in American history to be awarded the Medal of Honor -- the nation's highest decoration for gallantry. Americans north and south, both at the time and ever since, have been astounded and fascinated by this daring raid. But until now, there has not been a complete history of the entire episode and the fates of all those involved. Based on eyewitness accounts, as well as correspondence, diaries, military records, newspaper reports, deposition testimony and other primary sources, Stealing the General: The Great Locomotive Chase and the First Medal of Honor by Russell S. Bonds is a blend of meticulous research and compelling narrative that is destined to become the definitive history of "the boldest adventure of the war."

Customer Reviews:

An Excellent Study of the Great Locomotive Chase.......2007-09-14

I grew up in Ringgold GA. and was well versed in this chase. The author does an excellent job cutting through some of the "myth" ex.(Campbell in the movie was a soldier, but he was civilian)as well as Pettinger instead of Parrot receiving the 1st Medal of Honor. I found the text an excellent read and it is footnoted very nicely. I learned some things about the Chase I did not know! The only mistake I could find was the description of Lt. General James Longstreet detraining at Dalton to go to the Battle of Chickamauga. Longstreet and the men who arrived from Virginia detrained at Catoosa Station just a short distance below Ringgold. Overall, I would encourage anyone to buy this book and study in depth this event in History. Come visit Rinngold and see the restored Depot as well as the monument to the General. Just a short distance from Ringgold is Chattanooga. Andrews, Campbell, and the 6 soldiers who were hung are buried at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga. The area around Chattanooga is rich in History...

Great Loco Chase.......2007-07-29

A good factual summary, well referenced and easy to follow. However, its style could be a bit easier to read like a Stephen Ambrose book.

A fascinating read.......2007-07-24

Mr. Bonds has done the work and the result is a well constructed history of an exciting piece of Civil War intrigue. Thoroughly researched and thoughtfully written, this book will appeal to anyone interested not only in Civil War and railroading history, but also to those who are looking for just a good read. Congratulations to Mr. Bonds on a job well done.

A thorough treatment.......2007-07-19

Using a multitude of sources and what must have been very time consuming research, Mr Bonds gives thorough coverage to the subject. Whereas previous publications deal mainly with the events of April 12, 1862 and shortly before and after, he provides a lot a background about the personalities and actions leading up to the raid and then follows through with details about the participants and their lives after the raid and the war. All in all, by far the most complete discussion of a unique event.

Very good histroy.......2007-06-22

This account of the great locomotive chase was well researched and written with great detail. My only criticism of it is that it was a bit slow in the beginning. It had more background and detail than I prefer. The early part of the book was slow reading, the chase itself lacked drama (of course, I knew the outcome), but the last part on the exploits of the raiders was totally fascinating. As pure history, this is an excellent book, but as a readable history, it lacked punch. Obviously, the author's purpose was to write history, not to write exciting history. Maybe McCullough has spoiled me! I would recommend this book highly to anyone who is interested in the Civil War or this specific event. I cannot imagine that the author left any thing out. I admire this book a great deal. There is a great, grand film here if someone made it right.

Average customer rating:

My review- SG
Lily's Crossing
wonderful ending!
Lily's Crossing By Patricia Giff
Summer of Change

Lily's Crossing (Yearling Newberg)
Patricia Reilly Giff
Manufacturer: Yearling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Nory Ryan's Song
Willow Run
Maggie's Door
Pictures of Hollis Woods
Bud, Not Buddy

ASIN: 0440414539
Release Date: 1999-01-12

Amazon.com

Elizabeth Mollahan--the Lily of Lily's Crossing--lost her mom when she was little. Her father and a grandmother are her only family. Every summer the three of them flee sweaty New York City for a beach house in New York's Rockaways.

This year though, Lily's father announces that he's enlisted in the Army; days later, he is gone. Alone with her grandmother, Lily sees a long lonely summer ahead. And then, Albert appears. A refugee from the Nazis, his family thrown to the winds, young Albert bears a grief and sadness of his own.

It's a pleasure to read along as Lily and Albert negotiate the pain they feel and the secrets and adventures they share. With subtlety and compassion, this gift of a book reminds us that wars happen to children, too.

[10 and up. Adults should sneak a peek too.]

Amazon.com Audiobook Review

Lily's blissful summer of 1944 comes to a rude halt when her father is drafted into the military. Left alone with her grandmother in the family's summer home in Rockaway, New York, Lily befriends Albert, a shy Hungarian refugee her own age. Narrator Mia Dillon convincingly conveys the emotional complexity of both children, capturing the urgency and doubt that arise from Lily's internal dialogue and providing a sensitive portrayal of Albert, complete with Hungarian accent. Albert's tentativeness and sorrow are apparent to the listener long before Lily can fully understand his painful experiences in war-torn Europe. Dillon establishes the tension of the story early on, and consistently maintains the character and emotion of the respective players in this winner of the 1999 Audie Award for best children's production. (Running time: 3.5 hours, 3 cassettes) --Bryony Angell

Book Description

When Lily meets Albert, a refugee from Hungary, during the summer of 1944, they begin a special friendship. However, Lily and Albert have both told lies, and Lily has told a lie that may cost Albert his life.

Download Description

During a summer spent at Rockaway Beach in 1944, Lily's friendship with a young Hungarian refugee causes her to see the war and her own world differently.

Customer Reviews:

My review- SG.......2007-08-14

This book is about a young girl named Lily who went to Rockaway for the summer with her Gram, but when her good friend Margaret moves away to Willow Run, Lily knows her summer is ruined. With her father going into World War II, her summer becomes even worse until, Albert, a refugee from Hungary, comes to live with his aunt, Mrs. Orban, (Lily's neighbor) because his parents died and his sister, Ruth, is in Europe with the measles. Now Albert and Lily become friends and they both tell many lies, but Lily tells one that almost costs Albert his lfe. He tries to swim to Europe to get his sister, but the problem is Albert doesn't know how to swim. Lily also finds something sewn in Albert's coat. Read this awesome book to find out what's sewn in his coat and what happens next summer (at the end).

I enjoyed this book very much because I wanted to keep reading and never put the book down. There are also lots of cliff hangers which I liked.
The one thing I did not like about this book is that I thought the secret
sewn in Albert's pocket would be much more interesting than it was, and that it would be the plot of the story, but it wasn't. Overall, this book was great. I recommend this book very much to people who like history!

Lily's Crossing.......2007-07-12

Wonderful story! I plan to use this book for my middle school reading class.

wonderful ending!.......2007-05-15

Lily's Crossing takes place during World War II, in the summer of 1944. Lily Mollahan, lives with her father and grandmother, in the town of St. Albans. In the past summers, Lily has gone to her house on the beach in Rockaway, to have fun all summer with her best friend Margaret; but when Margaret's brother Eddie goes off to fight in the war, and her father and family move to a wartime factory town, Lily is left friendless for the summer.

Lily is convinced the summer will be ruined when she finds out her poppy is going off to fight in the war, and without Margaret there to comfort her. But when she forms a very close friendship with a boy named Albert, a refugee from Hungary, both their lies makes this summer one they will never forget.

Lily's crossing was an O.K book with a wonderful ending. I really thought the author did a great job pulling the book together and making the book worth reading. I wouldn't recommend reading this book for fun, but if you're interested in a decent war book with a very satisfying ending, Lily's Crossing is the book for you!

Lily's Crossing By Patricia Giff.......2007-05-03

Review By Blair

School is out, and Lily goes to her Grandma's beach house in Rockaway every summer. But in 1944, World War II is going on. Once lily gets to Rockaway, her only friend Margaret tells her she is moving to a war factory. Lily is really upset, but to make matters worst, her father has to go overseas to help in the war. Then Lily meets a boy named Albert and they become best friends. Albert is a refugee, and has lost most of his family. Albert is staying wit hhis cousins, the Orbans, who live next door to Lily's Grandma's house. When Lily teaches Albert how to swim, he wants to go back to France to go find his sister Ruth, and Lily said that he could! One afternoon Albert tries to swim, and almost drowns. Once summer is close to an end they say googd-bye to each other. Then Lily's dad comes home. They all go eat at the Orbans, and Albert and Ruth are there to greet them!

I would reccomend this book to everyone. This book was very, very suspenseful, and easy to comprehend. I never wanted to stop reading. This was one of my favorite books. I loved it!

Summer of Change.......2007-04-26

Every summer Lily looks forward to her vacation with her father and grandmother at Rockaway, on the Atlantic Ocean. She loves to go to a place where no one really knows her--they don't know she doesn't do well in school, she lies all of the time and makes up stories, and she doesn't have friends. Lily does have a friend in Rockaway--Margaret has been her friend since they could walk.

This summer is different, though. First Margaret's family has to move away to a wartime factory to help with World War II. Then Lily's own father finds out he has to go to war as an engineer, helping in Europe. He may be gone a very long time, and he has to leave Lily all alone with her grandmother. Terrible!

But then Albert, a boy about Lily's age, arrives at Rockaway. He speaks English with a heavy accent, and Lily soon learns he is a refugee from the war. Will Lily be able to become his friend and stop her cycle of lies?

I liked that over the course of the summer, Lily discovers things about her grandmother she hadn't seen before, and that strengthens their relationship. I liked the descriptions of the town of Rockaway. I didn't like the fact that Lily's personality isn't very well described. I couldn't really get a feel for the character.

"I'm Staying with My Boys..." The Heroic Life of Sgt. John Basilone, USMC

Average customer rating:

A MUST READ ! ! !
It sounds so prophetic
A must read
Excellent
An Extraordinary Biography and Full Frontal View of War

"I'm Staying with My Boys..." The Heroic Life of Sgt. John Basilone, USMC
jim Proser , and Jerry Cutter
Manufacturer: Lightbearer Communications Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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The Quiet Hero: The Untold Medal of Honor Story of George E. Wahlen at the Battle for Iwo Jima
Brotherhood of Heroes: The Marines at Peleliu, 1944--The Bloodiest Battle of the Pacific War
God Isn't Here: A Young American's Entry into World War II and His Participation in the Battle for Iwo Jima
The Pacific Warriors: The U.S. Marines in World War II: A Pictorial Tribute
I'm staying with my boys...the Heroic Life of Sgt John Basilone USMC

ASIN: 0975546104

Product Description

I'M STAYING WITH MY BOYS... is a first-hand look inside the life of one of the greatest heroes of the greatest generation. Sgt. John Basilone was lauded by General Douglas MacArthur as ...A ONE MAN ARMY and awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic defense of a vital airfield early in World War 2. It was the turning point of the war and Basilones foxhole was the site of the turning point in that battle. Distinctive among military biographies, the story is narrated by Sgt. Basilone himself allowing readers to experience the development of Johnny Basilone, the aimless youth, into Gunnery Sergeant MANILA JOHN Basilone, the clear-eyed warrior, undefeated light-heavyweight boxer and nationally revered war hero. This publication is the only family-authorized biography. The story is woven with surprising personal details such as Sgt. Basilones uncanny premonitions. Three times he confided to his family unlikely visions of his future. All three times the visions came to pass - including the final one that foretold his death. In spite of his final revelation, and true to his unwavering dedication to his men, he returned to battle and was killed on the beach at Iwo Jima - an emotional true story

Customer Reviews:

A MUST READ ! ! !.......2005-09-15

My friend loaned me this book to read and I must say that it gave me a new found appreciation of what those men and women did for us in WWII. This book was very easy to read, and should be included in the curriculum of every Recent American History course taught in High School or College. I HIGHLY recommend picking up a copy of this book. I have already purchased a copy for myself after reading my friends copy.

It sounds so prophetic.......2005-01-26

He knew he was going to die, and he just kept on fighting. He never abandoned his marines and thats just what he should have done. Its how the writer makes this so real that is so inspiring, not that his deeds werent great, but there have probably been thousands who have done just what he did, they just werent famous. But overall this is a good book. I like how it takes us to a time when being "patriotic" didnt get us arrested or sued.

A must read.......2005-01-06

Wonderfully moving and well written insight into a true American hero. It is a must read for all patriotic Americans and almost a responsiblity for us all to be aware of one of the US Marine's best.

Excellent.......2004-10-25

If you are interested in a personal story of WWII, then this is an excellent book. Rather than getting into the details of the conflicts this book focuses on the personal story of John Basilone - one of the handful of true American Heroes from WWII.

Written in the first person with an ample dose of personal details from his family, this book truly brings Manilla John back to life for many. I've been studying WWII for only 10 years and have read my share of the technical assessments of the important battles in WWII. This book stands out in my mind because it puts the reader in touch with the qualities of America's best young men and women of the 1940's; selflessness, courage, a supreme sense of duty, and in Basilon's case, a supreme sense of destiny.

Highly recommended for anyone with a passing interest in WWII, or for anyone who wants to learn about what made America's young people "tick" 60 years ago.

An Extraordinary Biography and Full Frontal View of War.......2004-08-28

Author and Film Producer Jim Prosser has created a richly detailed, raptly written, devastatingly powerful book about the life of American War hero John Basilone. This book is especially pungent at this time in history because it revives a lost tradition of the country's view of maritime heroism. Since the atrocities of the Vietnam mistake to the present harrowing details of a similar (or worse) war in Iraq the concept of war is now very much in a negative light. Even the words 'war hero' seem an oxymoron, so strident are the feelings about America's latest aggressions. But to appreciate this fine book requires a return to the mindset of the US during World War II when not only was Europe under the vile threat of Hitler and Mussolini, but the Japanese warriors were annihilating China, Korea, and ultimately the Philippines in the mission to own the Pacific Ocean. And even in those early years the threat seemed frightening but distant until the Japanese successfully decimate the US Pacific Fleet on December 7, 1941. That incident unified the country, creating a fighting force and support system at home that eventually resulted in the defeat of the massive evil outside the borders of the USA.

Given that atmosphere of over a half century ago, author Proser has created one of the most convincing portraits of a military hero in literature. And the intensively researched and detailed approach results in a biography that fully restores the ambience of WW II. John Basilone was a nice Italian boy form Raritan, New Jersey, a lad who quit school to follow his recurring visions. He caddied for Japanese businessmen at a country club, seeing in his prophetic mind that at some day he would be at war with Japan. After trying multiple jobs he finally enlists in the Army, makes the best of boot camp by gambling and boxing, and is shipped to the Philippines where he spent time waiting, boxing (becoming a champion nicknamed Manila John), running a little bar with his Island sweetheart, and finally returning home. Frustrated once again with the boredom of work and the embarrassment of not having finished his education, Basilone finally returns to the military by signing on with the USMC, trains hard at Quantico, Cuba, and other US training camp swamps, and finally is shipped to Guadalcanal where his brilliance and dedication to his commanding officer ("Chesty" Puller) through one of the most devastating battles in the Pacific arena earned him not only the respect of his men, but also the Medal of Honor - the highest commendation offered by his country. Returning home form this mission he ride the waves of adulation form the American people, hobnobs with movies stars, sells War Bonds, and falls in love, only to be shipped out once again to the Pacific where he is killed in action in the battle for Iwo Jima.

The amazing (that is, ONE of the amazing) aspect of this book is that Proser has elected to write it in the first person of John Basilone. Everything is told as Basilone perceives it, lives, feels, and survives it. Rarely has a story been written with such clarity and perception: we truly feel that Basilone has written his memoirs. The language of the period is exactly right, the descriptions of the various battles and conditions of being a soldier under tremendously adverse conditions are vivid, and the soldiers' mentality of being in the thick of war are written with such bulls-eye focus that no matter what the reader's opinion of War might be, this book makes it all understandable form the point of view of the soldiers who fought. Some of the battle passages are tough to read: "On October 23, a light tank and infantry attack across the mouth of the Matanikau ran right into the teeth of Vandegrift's defenses. It was chewed up in short order with over 600 Japs killed, many of them trapped in a jungle clearing where US tanks just drove over them instead of wasting ammunition. They ground the poor bastards up like sausage under the tank treads until the entire clearing was covered in gore and left to rot in the sun." And a soldier's impressions: "We all heard a lot about the bravery of the Japanese soldier before we got on the island. They were supposed to be the most fearless warriors ever to fight. But I kept thinking what kind of bravery it was that sent them, one after the other, right into the same guns that mowed down dozens before them. I don't know if that was bravery. I don't know what it was. Either they were crazy or they just didn't care. So I didn't care either. They weren't even men anymore. They were dumb animals who wanted me dead and had killed all my friends."

Proser very cleverly weaves snippets of Iwo Jima from the opening of the book to its finish, which in an act of brilliance makes the whole story more pungent in retrospect. There is little doubt the Sgt. John Basilone was an extraordinary soldier and military hero along with the thousands of others who lost their lives in the incomprehensibly vast WW II. I think this is a very important book that everyone should read, and I say that as a pacifist, as a Vietnam Veteran convinced that war on any level is simply not an option. This book is vastly important, well written, and contains a story and moment of history we all should face and incorporate. And perhaps then we can all better empathize with soldiers form throughout history to the very present. Recommended without reservation!

Average customer rating:

Marines in Iraq
Could not put it down!
The best book I've read so far this year.
One of the best books I've ever read!
POWERFUL MOVING

The Gift of Valor: A War Story
Michael M. Phillips
Manufacturer: Broadway
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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No True Glory: A Frontline Account of the Battle for Fallujah
One Bullet Away: The Making of a Marine Officer
Ambush Alley: The Most Extraordinary Battle of the Iraq War
We Were One: Shoulder to Shoulder With the Marines Who Took Fallujah
Blood Stripes: The Grunt's View of the War in Iraq

ASIN: 0767920376
Release Date: 2005-05-31

Book Description

Every day ordinary young Americans are fighting in Iraq with the same bravery, honor, and sense of duty that have distinguished American troops throughout history. One of these is Jason Dunham, a twenty-two-year-old Marine corporal from the one-stoplight town of Scio, New York, whose stunning story reporter Michael M. Phillips discovered while he was embedded with a Marine infantry battalion in the Iraqi desert. Corporal Dunham was on patrol near the Syrian border, on April 14, 2004, when a black-clad Iraqi leaped out of a car and grabbed him around his neck. Fighting hand-to-hand in the dirt, Dunham saw his attacker drop a grenade and made the instantaneous decision to place his own helmet over the explosive in the hope of containing the blast and protecting his men. When the smoke cleared, Dunham’s helmet was in shreds, and the corporal lay face down in his own blood. The Marines beside him were seriously wounded. Dunham was subsequently nominated for the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest award for military valor.

Phillips’s minute-by-minute chronicle of the chaotic fighting that raged throughout the area and culminated in Dunham’s injury provides a grunt’s-eye view of war as it’s being fought today—fear, confusion, bravery, and suffering set against a brotherhood forged in combat. His account of Dunham’s eight-day journey home and of his parents’ heartrending reunion with their son powerfully illustrates the cold brutality of war and the fragile humanity of those who fight it. Dunham leaves an indelible mark upon all who know his story, from the doctors and nurses who treat him, to the readers of the original Wall Street Journal article that told of his singular act of valor.

Customer Reviews:

Marines in Iraq.......2007-09-09

This is also a non-fiction book about the trials of becoming a Marine, then a leader of men, and then a victim of the tribulations of that position. I have been reading the Wall Street Journal for over 50 years, and have been ever salutory of the reporters that have produced stories for that instituion----and this is NO exception! This reporter dug up the very varied backgrounds of these Marines, and brought them into focus of a VERY controversial time in the U.S.----and the M.D.'s and nurses that played their roles in the very lives of these fighting men and women----that are on the the frontline--------so that we do not have to be.

Could not put it down!.......2007-04-11

This was an incredible book about an incredible young man and his sacfrice for our freedom. As a USMC veteran of the first GUlf War I was interested in reading what these guys are dealing with in Iraq. As a father I was so caught up in what his family went through and how they dealt with the decisions they had to make. This book will be on the top of my list of favorite books.

The best book I've read so far this year........2007-01-12

I know it's only January but this book is fantastic - an extremely well-written account of a fascinating story of a true American hero. Strongly recommended.

One of the best books I've ever read!.......2007-01-11

Michael Philips is a gifted writer who crafts and amazing story of a wonderful young man who gave his life to save his fellow Marines. Buy it, read it, and pass it on to someone else to read. Five stars are not enough for this book.

POWERFUL MOVING.......2007-01-04

An emotional look at a brave marines life and death,I found myself mysty eyed at times should be read by every politician in washington.

Average customer rating:

WW2 -SOUTH AMERICAN ACTION.
A Superb Story Well Told
Magnificent, Captivating, Rich, and Wonderful! SCORE: (A+)
Bound with Honor
Character Building into a Magnificent Nove

Honor Bound
W. E. B. Griffin
Manufacturer: Jove
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Blood and Honor (Honor Bound)
The Secret Warriors (Men at War, 2)
Soldier Spies (Men at War)
The Last Heroes: A Men at War Novel (Men at War)
The Fighting Agents: A Men at War Novel

ASIN: 0515114863

Customer Reviews:

WW2 -SOUTH AMERICAN ACTION........2006-08-01

WEB Griffin fills a gap in my military history of actions outside the main combat arenas. He obviously researches thoroughly and the result is gripping all the way through.

A Superb Story Well Told.......2005-06-20

Honor Bound captures your attention at the start and never lets go. While there is not really a lot of "action," the story, the settings and the character development all make for an excellent book.

The story is the recruitment and development of an OSS team to carry out a secret mission to disrupt German submarine activity in neutral Argentina during WWII. The sub story is the reconnection of a powerful Argentine father and his American son who have not seen each other since the son was an infant. Several other sub stories are also woven in. All are interesting and well told.

The primary setting is WWII Buenos Aires. Most of us are unaware of the atmosphere there during the war, so that makes for a good learning experience. Other settings include Guadacanal, Midland (Texas) and New Orleans. All add interest to the story.

Griffen also does an excellent job of developing his characters. The primary ones really come to life.

If you are looking for "shoot 'em up" action, this book is not for you. If you are looking for a fascinating book about an arena that you probably know little about, give this a try. I am pretty sure you won't be disappointed.

Magnificent, Captivating, Rich, and Wonderful! SCORE: (A+).......2003-12-26

The book set in WWII Argentina, "Honor Bound" is a great historical fiction of the WWII espionage game, coupled with an intense and dynamic story line. Cletus Frade, is a magnificent hero who has intensity, likeability, and charm. The secondary characters are richly developed and are as interesting in many cases as the hero. This story wraps you up in the characters, make you care about them, and takes you on a wonderful journey that ends way too soon, thankfully there are two more books in the series.
This is the best W.E.B. Griffin book yet in my opinion, and one of the most enjoyable books that I have ever had the pleasure of reading!
OVERALL SCORE: (A+)
PLOT: (A+), CHARATERS: (A+), DIALOGUE: (A), SETTING: (A), ACTION/COMBAT: (B-), ANTAGONISTS: (A+), ROMANCE: (A-), SEX: (Light), AGE LEVEL: (PG)

Bound with Honor.......2002-05-29

Shipped home from the Pacific, Cletus Frade learns that he will be sent to Argentina to aid in the war effort against the Nazis. He and two other Americans are sent to Argentina to sink a Nazi ship refueling and rearming German U-boats. In Argentina Cletus meets his long lost father, a very important man in Argentina and tries to sway him toward the United States. During the course of his mission Frade comes upon many problems, falls in love and builds a strong relationship with his father.
I recommend this book very highly. This book never had a dull moment. This is the second book of W.E.B. Griffin that I have read and I enjoyed both of them. This book takes place during World War Two and contains a lot of real to the time's technology and information. Griffin obviously spent a great deal of time researching before he wrote this book. It pays off. The quality of the story is greatly enhanced by the use of factual information. Of the many books in this genre that I have read this is one of the better ones. The story line drives along at a steady action packed pace. Though this book is projected more towards the middle-aged male demographic, I think that anyone who enjoys espionage, romance, anyone interested in World War Two or anyone who enjoys fiction would greatly enjoy reading this book. This is a great book and I recommend it to anyone.

Character Building into a Magnificent Nove.......2001-09-23

Griffith is well known for his military books that have real characters doing unreal things that make the entire novel a real story of unreal quality. Ok just a confusing enough sentence to make you read more. Griffith is such a writer that his characters are what carries the story; meaning the reader wants to know how the characters are going to develop in the situations. Cletus Frade is akin to another of WEB's great characters...Craig Lowell.

Perhaps one of my favorite authors with books that allow for countless rereads.

War of Honor
Average customer rating:

Another incredible Harrington novel!

Requires Thought

Weber does it again

Nothing happening here

Honorverse: The Saga continues

War of Honor
David Weber
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Ashes of Victory (Honor Harrington Series, Book 9)

Echoes of Honor (Honor Harrington Series, Book 8)

In Enemy Hands (Honor Harrington Series, Book 7)

Honor Among Enemies (Honor Harrington Series, Book 6)

Flag in Exile (Honor Harrington Series, Book 5)

ASIN: 0743507010

Amazon.com

David Weber's Honor Harrington series continues in this 10th novel, which picks up the action several years after the previous volume, Ashes of Victory. With a ceasefire in place with the Peeps, the new government of the Star Kingdom ignores the wishes of Queen Elizabeth and then threatens the very fabric of the Manticore Alliance against the People's Republic of Haven. We find Honor in the role of a senior political advisor, performing with her usual flair and élan.

With War of Honor coming in at over 800 pages, Weber has room to expand subplots and secondary characters and bring to the reader a feeling of depth and completeness seldom seen in science fiction novels. Favorite characters from past stories return, many of them growing in stature from unimportant secondary characters to major players in the "Honorverse." Weber serves up trouble in Silesia, the excitement of a new wormhole junction, scheming in Manticorian politics, strange events deep in Peep territory, and plenty of exploding spaceships--and, as publisher Jim Baen says, "We like exploding spaceships." --Ron Peterson

Book Description

NO ONE WANTED ANOTHER WAR

Thomas Theisman didn't. After risking his life and a fresh round of civil war to overthrow the Committee of Public Safety's reign of terror and restore the Republic of Haven's ancient Constitution, an interstellar war was the last thing he wanted.

Baron High Ridge didn't. The Prime Minister of Manticore was perfectly happy with the war he had. No one was shooting anyone else at the moment, and as long as he could spin out negotiations on the formal treaty of peace, his government could continue to milk all those "hostilities only" tax measures for their own partisan projects.

His Imperial Majesty Gustav didn't. Now that the fighting between the Star Kingdom and the Havenites had ended, the Andermani Emperor had his own plans for Silesia, and he was confident he could achieve them without a war of his own.

Protector Benjamin didn't. His people had made too deep a commitment to the Manticoran Alliance, in blood as well as treasure, for him to want to risk seeing it all thrown away.

And Honor Harrington certainly didn't. The "Salamander" had seen the inside of too many furnaces already, knew too much about how much war cost.

Unfortunately, what they wanted didn't matter....

Customer Reviews:

Another incredible Harrington novel!.......2007-08-14

Let me just say that I love David Weber's Honor Harrington series - and I'm a latecomer. Though I'm more of an action type of guy, the political intrigue and character development of this series complement and accentuate the action extremely well. I greatly enjoyed "War of Honor", though I will admit that I would have loved more action - Weber seemed to want to especially dig into the political and emotional escapades of his characters in this one.

But as always, when you get to the climactic battle(s) the payoff is always worth the wait. I can't say that I loved this as much as some of his more recent additions to the series (specifically Harrington's escape from the prison planet in Echos of Honor), but it definitely was worth the read.

Highly recommend it! But...if you haven't ever read an Honor Harrington novel, do yourself a favor and start with On Basilisk Station. I wish I had known to start there when I discovered this incredible series.

Requires Thought.......2007-07-02

It is an excellent read but it does require some thought. Readers may find some applicability to the politics of today in it. Well worth the effort

Weber does it again.......2007-05-07

This book and others in the series are just good reading. Very good SF but with a touch of the real world. Thanks for the mix.

Nothing happening here.......2007-02-06

I've followed this series from the beginning and this book is the one I least like. Nothing happens, with even the ending being disappointing - it's basically just a quick summary rather than the usual exciting finale. In 800 pages, the book is all didactic political talk and explanation. And those "bad guys" who get their due justice receive it all offscreen. It was such a disappointment, I wouldn't recommend the cliffsnotes for this book- they'd be boring too. And that's too bad, as the series held up well for 8 books.

Honorverse: The Saga continues.......2007-01-05

Another fine addition to the World of Honor Harrington. Although the political intrique can bog down the story line, this book is a fine piece of work by David Weber. A pleasant surprise was the CD in the back of the book with loads and loads of information and if I counted correctly almost 80 books. The Baen Library method of dissemanation for these books and many other authors' books has no equal of shared prose. I also liked the ability to share these with my cousin. We have been sharing books for more than 50 years, and although not of the same sex, we have always enjoyed the same types of books. She introduced me to Honor Harrington several years ago, and we have rushed each time there is a new book to see who could read it first.

Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty

Average customer rating:

Proud great niece!!
Incomplete
best gift ever for anyone interested in heros
Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty
A perfect gift for husband, brother or son

Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty

Manufacturer: Artisan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Military & Spies | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Uniforms | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Ordinary Heroes: A Tribute to Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients: Reflections of Freedom, Faith, Duty and the Heroic Possibilities of the Everyday Human Spirit
Beyond Glory: Medal of Honor Heroes in Their Own Words
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Medal of Honor: Profiles of America's Military Heroes from the Civil War to the Present
Turning of the Tide: How One Game Changed the South

ASIN: 1579652409

Book Description

Since the Civil War more than 39 million men and women have answered the call to serve. Of those, 3,440 served with such uncommon valor and and extraordinary courage that they were presented with the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award. Each of their heroic actionsis as unique as the person who performed it, and here more than one hundred of of America's living Medal of Honor recipients are honored and their bravery recounted by best-selling author Peter Collier and presented in duotone portraits by award-winning photographer Nick Del Calzo.

Customer Reviews:

Proud great niece!!.......2007-06-19

I first saw this book in a Borders and looked in it on a whim. Knowing that my great uncle had be awarded the medal of honor. I was happily surprised that he was in there (pg. 223) and even more to find he is also on the CD! My son never got to meet him since he passed away just before my son turned one so now I have a way of showing my son what his family has done! Great book many other great heroes in it. I will be buying more for my family and friends.

Incomplete.......2007-02-16

Not worth the price. It was a disappointment. It does not cover all the Medal of Honor recipient. It is incomplete. How can you forget Audi Murphy the most decorated person of any war.

best gift ever for anyone interested in heros.......2007-02-01

i bought one of these books for my husband for christmas and he read it from cover to cover in less than 5 days. it is now in his office and he has many people ask if they can stay a little longer to read after he has finished working on their vehicles. he bought one for a friend and he loves it also.

Medal of Honor: Portraits of Valor Beyond the Call of Duty.......2007-01-16

This book is a must for anyone whose interested in military history. The stories are truly inspiring.

A perfect gift for husband, brother or son.......2007-01-10

This book is exquisite--in every way. Together with the DVD, it provides powerful witness to acts of remarkable heroism. These rare individuals talk about the danger that unfolded around them and through which they emerged as heroes. They are spellbinding as they sweep us onto the battlefield with them. It is a unique opportunity to see that they are just like ourselves--unremarkable, until that moment when they knew what had to be done and then did it. This book is about those parts of our history when American individuals have risen to acts of honor; courage in the face of overwhelming fear; and, great humanity--poignantly told in their own words.

Average customer rating:

Secret Honor (Honor Bound)
W. E. B. Griffin
Manufacturer: Jove
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

War | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Action & Adventure | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Blood and Honor (Honor Bound)
Honor Bound
Soldier Spies (Men at War)
The Last Heroes: A Men at War Novel (Men at War)
The Secret Warriors (Men at War, 2)

ASIN: 0515130095
Release Date: 2000-12-05

Amazon.com

Don't be deceived by the blockbuster size of W.E.B. Griffin's third installment in the Honor Bound series. Secret Honor is an intricate book that reveals a remarkable attentiveness to historical detail and characterization. It is also a top-notch thriller set in Griffin's quasi-fictional version of WWII.

The plot is woven with so many threads, all of them worthwhile, that it actually feels more like a chronicle than a novel, but the central story takes up the continuing adventures of OSS agent Cletus Frade. Frade, a U.S. Marine whose father was almost the president of Argentina, was raised in Texas and now uses his father's special status in Argentine society to penetrate Nazi plans for South America. This time, however, Frade is not so much fighting the Nazis as supporting them. While one group, Himmler among them, is secretly stashing funds in Argentina to prepare for an escape when the Reich finally crumbles, a second group, including a German general and his son, are actually plotting to assassinate Hitler. Meanwhile, the OSS is on the verge of ex-communicating Frade, given his unwillingness to reveal the identity of the son, code-named "Galahad."

The details are what make this book: Cletus Frade is imprinted on the mind, clad in grease-stained khaki trousers, spouting Spanish-Texan four-letter epithets, and sporting cowboy boots as he repairs his father's ravaged old Horch touring sedan at Estancia San Pedro y San Pablo. Particularly engaging is Griffin's account of Argentine upper-strata social "politics," as Father Welner steers Cletus into his inevitable marriage. Reading Secret Honor, one enters many vividly drawn places--from Nazi secret meetings to Argentine estates--that bring this pivotal era to life. Finishing the book leaves one feeling a rare combination of sadness in leaving close colleagues behind and exhilaration at having witnessed history being made. --Patrick O'Kelley

Book Description

A crackling new novel in the bestselling Honor Bound series, by the master of the military thriller.

Abridged. Four cassettes, 6 hours

Simultaneous release with the G. P. Putnam's Sons hardcover

Our Sacred Honor: The Stories, Letters, Songs, Poems, Speeches, and Hymns that Gave Birth to Our Nation

Average customer rating:

Our Sacred Honor...
One Inspirational Read
Bennett chose material well
The greatest generation speaks
Quite Enjoyable

Our Sacred Honor: The Stories, Letters, Songs, Poems, Speeches, and Hymns that Gave Birth to Our Nation

Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Americas | History | Subjects | Books

Ethics & Morality | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Political | Philosophy | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Inspirational | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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America: The Last Best Hope (Volume I): From the Age of Discovery to a World at War
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The BOOK OF VIRTUES
America: The Last Best Hope (Volume II): From a World at War to the Triumph of Freedom
Moral Compass : Stories for a Life's Journey

ASIN: 068484138X

Book Description

Millions of American families have turned to The Book of Virtues and The Moral Compass by William J. Bennett for moral guidance in troubled times. Our Sacred Honor offers inspiration and instruction as well...this time of a particularly American sort.

The lessons it contains are especially welcome. We live in a time when the practice of representative government in the United States of America is under siege from both the left and the right. Scandals abound. We are first shocked, then wearied, to learn that our national leaders have feet of clay. We live in a time, in short, which demands that we return to our origins to discover the common principles that make us essentially American. Our Sacred Honor reveals those common principles. They are articulated by the flawed but deeply admirable men and women who first wrote what it is to be American. The pledge made by the Founders to one another that hot July day in 1776—the pledge of "our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor"—has been redeemed many times in the centuries since, but the nation they founded has never failed to profit from their example.

It is time to profit from their advice.

In Our Sacred Honor, William J. Bennett has collected the best that has been thought and said by and about the men and women who founded America. And what a group they are: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John and Abigail Adams, and so many more that otherwise first-rate intellects such as John Dickinson, Benjamin Rush, and George Mason are relegated to the status of footnotes in the popular imagination. Not since Periclean Athens has such a small nation been led by so many larger-than-life figures. The only characteristic they shared more widely than revolutionary ardor was their talent (and inclination) for advice. Here is that advice on virtually every aspect of "the good"—good government, good relations between individuals and nations, and what it means to live a good life. Here are Thomas Jefferson on piety ("Adore God. Murmur not at the ways of Providence"); James Madison on justice ("It ever has been, and ever will be pursued, until it be obtained, or until liberty be lost in the pursuit"); and Patrick Henry on patriotism ("Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?"). Here are Abigail Adams on love ("When he is wounded, I bleed..."); Benjamin Franklin on industry ("Have you somewhat to do tomorrow, do it today"); and George Washington on friendship ("Be courteous with all, but intimate with few"). Here are the lyrics to "Yankee Doodle," Longfellow's celebration of the midnight ride of Paul Revere, and the Declaration of Independence. Here are the stories of the Liberty Bell, Washington at Valley Forge, and Nathan Hale. Here are selections from The Federalist Papers, and Ralph Waldo Emerson's "Concord Hymn," with "the shot heard round the world." Here are Poor Richard's Almanack, the extraordinary correspondence between John and Abigail Adams, and George Washington's Farewell Address.

The stories, songs, letters, and speeches collected in Our Sacred Honor are an inspiring celebration of American exceptionalism, produced by a collection of exceptional Americans. It is the best book of advice in more than two hundred years.

Customer Reviews:

Our Sacred Honor..........2007-10-06

As always, Bennett tosses us a great story about our founding fathers. His writing is coordinated and he points out the best of the dramatic tales (real) that they endured--as individuals, as well as family heads. If only, when future historians look back on our current days, they would be able to say..."Those were great days." Alas, I doubt it. Although the founders were what might be called "normal mortals", to challenge each other to create our great nation makes one proud to be able to say "we belong!" They were clearly heroes.

One Inspirational Read.......2007-05-14

I was tasked to find an appropriate book to give to outstanding high schoolers for our local Rotary Club. I felt this book well represented the ideal of the club. This book should serve as a valuable resource in future years as these young men and women matriculate to higher learning, and careers.

Bennett chose material well.......2007-03-26

Bennett chose his material well. Historians may argue with some of the details in his commentary (e.g., that Burr shot to kill Hamilton, aiming directly at his chest). Others may take issue with some of the "nuclear family" biases inherent in his commentary. That isn't the meat of the book. The importance of the book rests in the quotes of the founding generation, and Bennett went beyond some of the most famous quotes and speeches, although these are represented as well, to give us a true feeling of a generation that approached life with a genuine goal of self-improvement. Most interesting were some passages from Abigail Adams, from her "tough love" to John Quincy through her disdain for french dancers. Anything regarding Bennett's personal life is irrelevant for assessing the value of this work.

The greatest generation speaks .......2006-07-09

The United States of America was blessed with a generation of founding fathers who were at the same time people of action, and people of thought. They were an incredibly brilliant group of political and moral thinkers. Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Franklin, Hamilton, Madison had a profound understanding of both human nature and the unique circumstances bound up with the founding of the United States. Their dream was of creating a nation like no other before, one based on principles of freedom, and dignity of the individual The ideal formulation is of course in one of the documents central to this collection, ' The Declaration of Independence' , life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
In this anthology of the founding fathers' writings in story, letter song, speech and hymn we feel the spirit of a new and great nation and vision for mankind.
God Bless America.

Quite Enjoyable.......2005-12-31

Bill Bennett has collected some of the greatest pieces of rhetoric and stories of our founding fathers. This work includes everything from patriotism, the meaning of freedom, and romance to ethics and advice. It's a wonderful collection, one that will connect the listener to the intellect of the greatest Americans, at least the greatest of the early Americans. Bennett doesn't read any of his selected pieces, only some of the introductory material. However, the people who do read the work do a magnificent job. It's an abridgement of the source work and runs about 4 hours. It's a perfect collection for long drives.

Honor, Courage, Commitment: Navy Boot Camp

Average customer rating:

Honor, Courage, and Commitment
Disappointed
I was in this bootcamp division!!
Hoor, Courage, Commitment: Navy Boot Camp
Excellent in depth coverage of US Navy Boot Camp

Honor, Courage, Commitment: Navy Boot Camp
J. F. Leahy
Manufacturer: US Naval Institute Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Naval | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1557505365

Book Description

Through words and pictures, J. F. Leahy chronicles the transition of eighty-one men and women from civilians to sailors at the U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. Revealing a side of today's youth that many will find surprising, his examination of the unique American institution--popularly known as boot camp--offers a look into the hearts and minds of a group of young people who are a cross section of the nation. The work sheds light on the controversy over gender integration and helps bridge the gap between the military services and the society they serve.

During the fall of 2000, the author was granted unlimited and unprecedented access to the recruits from the time they arrived at Chicago's airport until their graduation. Observing their training evolutions first hand, he interviewed them at every opportunity and surveyed them through a series of his own specially designed reaction papers. He watched them as they struggled through obstacle courses and learned how to fight shipboard fires. He listened as they shared their feelings, and he cheered them on as they faced the challenges of "Battle Stations" and tested their physical, mental, and moral preparations before entering the fleet. Leahy also shared their pride at the final parade and graduation ceremonies. Both eye-opening and inspiring, his guide will be valuable to future recruits and those who influence them, as well as those who have been there and want a reminder of that special time in their lives.

Customer Reviews:

Honor, Courage, and Commitment.......2007-09-21

I recommend this book for any parent who wants to experience their Navy Recruit's experience in the Training Recruit Command Program at Great Lakes (Boot Camp. It made me feel closer to my son and made the "Pass In Review" graduation ceremony more meaningful, having read the book.

Disappointed.......2007-08-24

Enjoyed reading the book, howver it is quite obvious special attention was awarded to the recruits while Leahy was there observing Great Lakes to write this book. I just had a son graduate on August 10, 2007 and trust me things are quite different than the book portrays.

I was in this bootcamp division!!.......2007-06-28

This was my division that the book was written about. DIVISION 005. At the time I wasnt married and my name was Michelle Gray. There is a pic or 2 of me in the book. I went through bookcamp from OCT 2000-Dec 2000. Mr Leahy was there with us every day from sun up to sun down. I only recently got the book to read and it brang back sooo many memories. I think this book is great for anyone wondering how bootcamp will be. Even though things have changed alot through the yrs most of bootcamp is the same. Bootcamp has gotten easier and you get more sleep at night now!!!! If anyone needs any info or wants to know anything about bootcamp you can email me with any questions. I am still in the Navy and stationed in Japan right now. I have been in for almost 7 year and have never been on a ship out to sea. Guess you can say Im pretty luck! [...]

Hoor, Courage, Commitment: Navy Boot Camp.......2007-06-11

Wonderful account of what to expect for my son who will leave for Great Lakes in 2 weeks. Received book on Friday and did not put it down until I finished it today. The other members of the family will be reading this also. From what friends who have been in the Navy have related, this is a very accurate picture of life as a recruit.

Excellent in depth coverage of US Navy Boot Camp.......2007-04-11

Every future sailor in the DEP (Delayed Enlistment Program) should read this book, as should their parents and other loved ones. It provides a detailed account of the Navy Boot Camp experience, following one division from arrival to graduation. A very well written, entertaining read; each of us in our family who read it found it hard to put down once we'd started it.

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