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Get It On!: What It Means to Lead the Way
"Three words. That’s all it took. I was writing a letter home to my mom when the call rang out across the American 'Get it on! ' And just like that, the course of my life changed forever."
Decorated U.S. military veteran-turned-country musician Keni Thomas gives a personal account of his heart-wrenching experiences in the chaotic 1993 Battle of Mogadishu to express a unique set of leadership lessons and inspired view of our greater purpose. Get It On! reminds readers "that we, as individuals, do indeed matter, that we are anything but ordinary, fully capable of carrying out life-changing assignments at any level and in any situation. We can make a difference in this world."
Carrying a guitar now rather than a rifle, Keni also shares stories from the stage of the Grand Ole Opry to overseas concerts for active soldiers, always passionate about the battle that "still shapes my thoughts on a daily basis" and eager to encourage the absolute best in those who are willing to answer whatever call God places on their lives.
"Keni Thomas is a great storyteller. (This) is a book for everyone."
-- War on Terror News
Decorated U.S. military veteran-turned-country musician Keni Thomas gives a personal account of his heart-wrenching experiences in the chaotic 1993 Battle of Mogadishu to express a unique set of leadership lessons and inspired view of our greater purpose. Get It On! reminds readers "that we, as individuals, do indeed matter, that we are anything but ordinary, fully capable of carrying out life-changing assignments at any level and in any situation. We can make a difference in this world."
Carrying a guitar now rather than a rifle, Keni also shares stories from the stage of the Grand Ole Opry to overseas concerts for active soldiers, always passionate about the battle that "still shapes my thoughts on a daily basis" and eager to encourage the absolute best in those who are willing to answer whatever call God places on their lives.
"Keni Thomas is a great storyteller. (This) is a book for everyone."
-- War on Terror News
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2011
8 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 23, 2024
“Get It On!” tells a firsthand story of a battle that seems to be forgotten in modern history. The author compared many things from the battle to Biblical truths and leadership principles while not neglecting to give honor to those he fought alongside.
“Men will fight for a cause, but they will die for each other.”
“Men will fight for a cause, but they will die for each other.”
May 1, 2018
Because of the authors obsessive religious blabbering and frustrating writing style this book has become irrelevant faster than you could order another reprint of Matt Eversmann's 'Battle of Mogadishu' and Mark Bowden's 'Black Hawk Down'.
March 30, 2021
“Who do I want to be in this moment?”
“What do I want to be remembered for?”
Keni is a captivating storyteller and author. He poses some great leadership questions intertwined with a message of faith.
“What do I want to be remembered for?”
Keni is a captivating storyteller and author. He poses some great leadership questions intertwined with a message of faith.
February 26, 2017
Awesome book! I seriously could not put it down. Keno is a master story teller and has a great writing style. Excellent first person narrative of one Ranger's trial by combat in Mogadishu.
February 27, 2018
He’s just as good a speaker! Very motivational. Original “Black Hawk Down” squad.
March 17, 2018
Good book about leadership. Heard him speak recently. Excellent.
February 8, 2020
awesome book
July 9, 2021
The Lord said whom shall I send and who will go for us? And I said “here I am lord. send me. “ words to live by.
Excellent book and excellent writer. Poignant and funny but mostly inspirational.
Excellent book and excellent writer. Poignant and funny but mostly inspirational.
October 1, 2021
I read as much as I could - the story merits better writing than this
March 8, 2022
A tad bit preachy about god but otherwise nice.
April 10, 2014
"Three words. That’s all it took. I was writing a letter home to my mom when the call rang out across the American compound: 'Get it on!' And just like that, the course of my life changed forever." Keni Thomas, A U.S. Rangers Veteran turned country musician gives his personal account of the Battle of Mogadishu, which is commonly referred to as the “Black Hawk Down” Mission, and how it started as a regular mission on any given day, to having a few mistakes and then finally falling to hell. He tells his perspective of some of the most difficult decisions and choices each man had to make throughout the long and hard fight and how he and all of the other fighters were forced to watch many of their friends suffer in pain and even die.
On the surface, one may see it as just another war story with guts and gore and dismiss it without a second glance, but even if you are appalled by war itself, you will enjoy reading this book. Keni does his best to incorporate his message of courage, confidence, leadership, and self- worth into his book in the most explicit way so that the reader cannot but help feeling inspired. Often he will break in telling a certain aspect of the story in order to come right out and say what he wants the reader to understand and he often does this with the incorporation of famous quotes that range from the words of
Dr. Seuss to Presidents to the Christian Bible. He wants his readers to know that whether they realize it yet or not, "that we, as individuals, do indeed matter, that we are anything but ordinary, fully capable of carrying out life-changing assignments at any level and in any situation. We can make a difference in this world." And that it is our duty to make that difference by either bettering ourselves to provide an example for others, or by modeling that example that those who lead set, so that we may one day lead. “When you stop trying to better yourself, you no longer lead by example. When you stop leading by example, you stop making a difference. When you stop making a difference, then what are you doing here? You’re taking up space that’s what you’re doing. Lead. Follow. Or get out of the way.”
While it is a book I believe everyone should read, it may not be enjoyed by all. Keni is a very avid Christian and his work is laced with Biblical verses and references and so those who are Anti-Christian are likely to be averse to this book; however he has a way of portraying what it truly means to follow God that it may persuade those who were at one point against the faith to turn to God. Also the aspect of war itself is likely to turn away readers who do not understand its hardships, purpose and the minds of the soldiers who fight them, but I still recommend those who do not particularly like war to try this book.
The only thing not enjoyable about the book is its length. It is rather short and could probably be more descriptive and in depth in many ways but that likely was actually the intention of the writer, to keep it brief. By opting out of explicit details and horrible play-by-plays Keni allows the readers who do not want to read about war to not have to go through the grim details. By shortening the overall length of the book he also permitted those who only are wiling to read so much to still receive his messages of leadership and courage and spread the good news.
I recommend this book to anyone willing to learn about the Battle of Mogadishu, the viewpoint of a Christian warrior, and in general anyone with the time for a quick read. Keni is a great storyteller and his book is one for everyone.
On the surface, one may see it as just another war story with guts and gore and dismiss it without a second glance, but even if you are appalled by war itself, you will enjoy reading this book. Keni does his best to incorporate his message of courage, confidence, leadership, and self- worth into his book in the most explicit way so that the reader cannot but help feeling inspired. Often he will break in telling a certain aspect of the story in order to come right out and say what he wants the reader to understand and he often does this with the incorporation of famous quotes that range from the words of
Dr. Seuss to Presidents to the Christian Bible. He wants his readers to know that whether they realize it yet or not, "that we, as individuals, do indeed matter, that we are anything but ordinary, fully capable of carrying out life-changing assignments at any level and in any situation. We can make a difference in this world." And that it is our duty to make that difference by either bettering ourselves to provide an example for others, or by modeling that example that those who lead set, so that we may one day lead. “When you stop trying to better yourself, you no longer lead by example. When you stop leading by example, you stop making a difference. When you stop making a difference, then what are you doing here? You’re taking up space that’s what you’re doing. Lead. Follow. Or get out of the way.”
While it is a book I believe everyone should read, it may not be enjoyed by all. Keni is a very avid Christian and his work is laced with Biblical verses and references and so those who are Anti-Christian are likely to be averse to this book; however he has a way of portraying what it truly means to follow God that it may persuade those who were at one point against the faith to turn to God. Also the aspect of war itself is likely to turn away readers who do not understand its hardships, purpose and the minds of the soldiers who fight them, but I still recommend those who do not particularly like war to try this book.
The only thing not enjoyable about the book is its length. It is rather short and could probably be more descriptive and in depth in many ways but that likely was actually the intention of the writer, to keep it brief. By opting out of explicit details and horrible play-by-plays Keni allows the readers who do not want to read about war to not have to go through the grim details. By shortening the overall length of the book he also permitted those who only are wiling to read so much to still receive his messages of leadership and courage and spread the good news.
I recommend this book to anyone willing to learn about the Battle of Mogadishu, the viewpoint of a Christian warrior, and in general anyone with the time for a quick read. Keni is a great storyteller and his book is one for everyone.
December 17, 2016
Ranger Thomas authored a marvelous piece on what it means to gear up, to "Get It On" as he describes. The book doesn't just stop at describing his experiences in the famed battle of Mogadishu undertaken in joint operations by Task Force Ranger and shown in the book/movie Blackhawk Down. Ranger Thomas used his unique history and Ranger story to become an instrument for spiritual warfare.
This must read book details how an individual, from a General to a Private, teacher to student and anywhere in between has the unique call to lead or get out of the way. The work is interspersed with scripture, historical parallels and the Ranger Creed. What struck me the most was how the book quickly became more than what I expected as I began turning pages. As I have been working with the WWII Ranger community over the past 4 years as a historian to chronicle their exploits, it is clear to see how Ranger Thomas is cut from the same cloth as those men I have come to know, respect and love.
I am going to have my teenage kids read this book as it has a mighty word for them. If you want inspired to put your nose to the grindstone and work hard to train as you fight, then this fantastic book is for you. Hoah!
This must read book details how an individual, from a General to a Private, teacher to student and anywhere in between has the unique call to lead or get out of the way. The work is interspersed with scripture, historical parallels and the Ranger Creed. What struck me the most was how the book quickly became more than what I expected as I began turning pages. As I have been working with the WWII Ranger community over the past 4 years as a historian to chronicle their exploits, it is clear to see how Ranger Thomas is cut from the same cloth as those men I have come to know, respect and love.
I am going to have my teenage kids read this book as it has a mighty word for them. If you want inspired to put your nose to the grindstone and work hard to train as you fight, then this fantastic book is for you. Hoah!
April 29, 2016
I wish I'd read this book ten years ago, back when I was bemoaning being just a "number" on a large company's books. But no, I've read it now, and even so I'm sure this was the right time for me to read it.
In "Get it on!" Keni gives a detailed account of the "Black Hawk Down" mission that took place in Mogadishu. But not only that. This book homes in on what it means to be a Ranger, bringing the concept down to the very personal level; what it means to be a leader; what it means to be a Christian. It is a call to stand and be counted, to action rather than complacency. Sure, the Rangers and other military personnel around the world carry out tasks many of us would rather not, but that doesn't make us any lesser than they. We "ordinary" folks are equally called to respond to God's call "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" (Isaiah 6:8, NIV). We are called to make a difference, to have a meaningful role in life.
In my opinion, this book is a must-read for all Christians.
In "Get it on!" Keni gives a detailed account of the "Black Hawk Down" mission that took place in Mogadishu. But not only that. This book homes in on what it means to be a Ranger, bringing the concept down to the very personal level; what it means to be a leader; what it means to be a Christian. It is a call to stand and be counted, to action rather than complacency. Sure, the Rangers and other military personnel around the world carry out tasks many of us would rather not, but that doesn't make us any lesser than they. We "ordinary" folks are equally called to respond to God's call "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" (Isaiah 6:8, NIV). We are called to make a difference, to have a meaningful role in life.
In my opinion, this book is a must-read for all Christians.
December 24, 2014
I met Keni Thomas at a conference where he was the keynote speaker. His story was powerful and his lessons on leadership were inspiring. His songs weren't half bad either. I bought the book at the conference and was impressed with the story. I never saw the Blackhawk Down movie but I read the book. It's amazing what those good men endured over there in a short few days as well as those that lost their lives. Unfortunately, it would seem a lot of it could have been avoided if the troops were properly equipped. This is a good book and Keni has an interesting take on the events that can be applied to our own lives.
July 24, 2012
Keni provides a fantastic mix of an 'on the ground' first hand account of our Rangers and their actions in Mogadishu, with a religous and positive thinking perspective. He ties the actions of everyday life and their value to those who step forward and protect the American way. Through these analogies Keni provides amazing clarity to the opportunities we each have to 'Lead the Way' in our own lives each and every day.
This is a great read if you appreciate positive thinking and a chronology of historical events.
This is a great read if you appreciate positive thinking and a chronology of historical events.
January 9, 2017
Excellent, no-holds-barred look at what leadership truly means... Fantastic, real-life situations and biographical examples from Keni Thomas's life. There is a cost to being a leader, and the author does a great job of inspiring and encouraging readers to be dynamic leaders in their own spheres of influence. The author also challenges readers to develop their character in a number of multifaceted ways, and he does a stellar job of helping readers further understand how they're individually wired.
October 15, 2016
How to review a book like this? It is easily is my top 10 books I have ever read. It teaches leadership, responsibility, honor, courage, and character through a multi angled lense of faith, military training, war, and personal experience. It is a very easy read and easy to get lost in its pages. Keni is transparent in his struggles and victories, his failures and successes, his mistakes and redemption. From saving wounded to pulling a knife on his rescuer Keni bares it all.
Thank you Keni Thomas for your sacrifice. It has been an honor and a blessing reading this book.
Thank you Keni Thomas for your sacrifice. It has been an honor and a blessing reading this book.
July 3, 2012
Interesting book to read. It really stressed to me the importance of not just showing up but instead making sure every moment matters. We all have a purpose and a job to do with the highest standard. Great book for leaders to read to remember the importance of training and being prepared.
February 19, 2014
I have heard the author speak, so I knew the stories and his themes. Toward the end of the book, there comes a lot of repetition, some of it word-for-word. Otherwise, this is a great tribute to the men of the Blackhawk Down mission and a great lesson on the meaning of leadership, constantly reminding the reader that if you don't step up, who will?
July 1, 2015
This was pretty awesome. I had the opportunity to hear him speak at a conference and then read the book on the flight home. The book is his account of the Blackhawk Down story. He gives the account but mixes in life applications and plenty of Bible verses to help you see life differently through the story. Pretty darned cool.
March 11, 2012
A must read for anyone who assumes leadership roles.
August 4, 2012
Amazing!!! First person point of view of Blackhawk Down. Great book about leading, war, god and finding yourself. Highly Recommend!!
April 7, 2016
This is an undeniable account of the Battle of Mogadishu from the perspective of one of the Rangers. Worth the read and a great piece on leadership and faith.
September 7, 2013
Fast reading book interjected with leadership principles. Author was involved in Black Hawk Down. Military tactics abound as the Americans tried to stabilize Somalia.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews