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Guardian of the Republic: An American Ronin's Journey to Faith, Family and Freedom
The inspiring life and uncensored views of a veteran, patriot, former Congressman, conservative icon, and warrior for personal liberty… Over the course of the past few decades, Allen West has had many titles bestowed on him, among them Lt. Colonel, U.S. Representative, “Dad,” and Scourge of the Far Left. He rose from humble beginnings in Atlanta where his father instilled in him a code of conduct that would inform his life ever after. Throughout his years leading troops, raising a loving family, serving as Congressman in Florida’s 22nd district, and emerging as one of the most authentic voices in conservative politics, West has never compromised the core values on which he was family, faith, tradition, service, honor, fiscal responsibility, courage, freedom. Today, these values are under attack as never before, and as the far Left intensifies its assaults, few have been as vigorous as West in pushing back. He refuses to let up, calling out an Obama administration that cares more about big government than following the Constitution, so-called black “leaders” who sell out their communities in exchange for pats on the head, and a segment of the media that sees vocal black conservatives as threats to be silenced. Now more than ever, the American republic needs a a principled, informed conservative who understands where we came from, who can trace the philosophical roots of our faith and freedom, and who has a plan to get America back on track. West isn’t afraid to speak truth to power, and in this book he’ll share the experiences that shaped him and the beliefs he would die to defend.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
42 people are currently reading
256 people want to read
About the author
Allen West
1 book18 followersLt. Col. West believes it will be principled constitutional conservative policies, not politics, which secures a sound economic future for Americans – with growth, opportunity and returning the promise of the American dream for this generation and those to come.
He is the third of four generations of military servicemen in his family. During his 22-year career in the United States Army, Lieutenant Colonel West served in several combat zones and received many honors including a Bronze Star, three Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, one with Valor device, and a Valorous Unit Award. In 1993 he was named the US Army ROTC Instructor of the Year.
In November of 2010, Allen was elected to the United States Congress, representing Florida's 22nd District. As a member of the 112th Congress, he sat on the Small Business and Armed Services Committees and was instrumental in passage of the 2011 and 2012 National Defense Authorization Acts.
He is a Fox News Contributor, Director of the Booker T. Washington Initiative at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Senior Fellow at the Media Research Center, contributing columnist for Townhall.com, and author of Guardian of the Republic: An American Ronin’s Journey to Family, Faith and Freedom, and Hold Texas, Hold the Nation: Victory or Death.
West pens a daily column at his personal website www.theoldschoolpatriot.com.
He is the former Executive Director of the National Center for Policy Analysis in Dallas Texas.
LTC West holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee as well as two Masters degrees, one from Kansas State University and another from the US Army Command and General Staff Officers College.
West is an avid distance runner, a Master SCUBA diver, a motorcyclist, and in his spare time he enjoys cheering his beloved Tennessee Volunteers.
Lt. Col. West is a legacy life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, life member of the American Legion, life member of the Association of the United States Army and the Society of the First Infantry Division, Patriot Life Member (Benefactor) and Board of Directors member of the National Rifle Association. Lieutenant Colonel West is an inductee into the University of Tennessee Army ROTC Hall of Fame. He is on the Board of Advisors of Amegy Bank, Dallas Region. West was appointed by Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission.
He is married to Dr. Angela Graham-West, a financial adviser, and they have two daughters, Aubrey, who recently graduated with her Masters from SMU, now attending Physician Assistant school in West Virginia, and youngest daughter, Austen.
He is the third of four generations of military servicemen in his family. During his 22-year career in the United States Army, Lieutenant Colonel West served in several combat zones and received many honors including a Bronze Star, three Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, one with Valor device, and a Valorous Unit Award. In 1993 he was named the US Army ROTC Instructor of the Year.
In November of 2010, Allen was elected to the United States Congress, representing Florida's 22nd District. As a member of the 112th Congress, he sat on the Small Business and Armed Services Committees and was instrumental in passage of the 2011 and 2012 National Defense Authorization Acts.
He is a Fox News Contributor, Director of the Booker T. Washington Initiative at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Senior Fellow at the Media Research Center, contributing columnist for Townhall.com, and author of Guardian of the Republic: An American Ronin’s Journey to Family, Faith and Freedom, and Hold Texas, Hold the Nation: Victory or Death.
West pens a daily column at his personal website www.theoldschoolpatriot.com.
He is the former Executive Director of the National Center for Policy Analysis in Dallas Texas.
LTC West holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee as well as two Masters degrees, one from Kansas State University and another from the US Army Command and General Staff Officers College.
West is an avid distance runner, a Master SCUBA diver, a motorcyclist, and in his spare time he enjoys cheering his beloved Tennessee Volunteers.
Lt. Col. West is a legacy life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, life member of the American Legion, life member of the Association of the United States Army and the Society of the First Infantry Division, Patriot Life Member (Benefactor) and Board of Directors member of the National Rifle Association. Lieutenant Colonel West is an inductee into the University of Tennessee Army ROTC Hall of Fame. He is on the Board of Advisors of Amegy Bank, Dallas Region. West was appointed by Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission.
He is married to Dr. Angela Graham-West, a financial adviser, and they have two daughters, Aubrey, who recently graduated with her Masters from SMU, now attending Physician Assistant school in West Virginia, and youngest daughter, Austen.
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April 8, 2014
****This review is based on an advance uncorrected proof from the publisher, so the version that appears on bookshelves on its release date may be somewhat different from the version I read****
I write this review as one who claims to be a liberal. I also write this review as someone who is not afraid to admit when I am wrong. I also write this review as someone who is willing to listen to views and opinions that I may not necessarily agree with but from which I may learn different ways of thinking. As a liberal, I consider myself open-minded, which I define as having the ability, and willingness, to radically alter my belief system if undeniable evidence is presented.
I say all that by way of preface to my review of “Guardian of the Republic”, a book written by a conservative.
I will admit that before reading this book I had never heard of Allen West. A Tea-Party Republican who served two years as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida’s 22nd district, West has served in the Army, was deployed to Kuwait in ’91 and Iraq in ’03, taught high school for a year, briefly worked as a defense contractor, and currently makes regular appearances on Fox News. West is also an African-American.
In today’s political climate, being a black conservative---a black Republican---is akin to being a Nazi-sympathizing Jew during the Holocaust. It is the punchline for a late-night talk show host. It is, sadly, viewed by many black people as being a contemporary “Uncle Tom”.
I am just as guilty as most liberals of adding to the negative rhetoric used to excoriate conservatives in general, black conservatives in particular. Not that I had many black conservatives to excoriate, as most of the vocal conservatives and Republicans that I have lambasted have been white. While I have tried not to ridicule and demean the party as a whole, it is perhaps little comfort to those conservatives who take offense at many vocal liberals’ often brutal (and occasionally justifiable) tirades against the idiotic statements and actions of certain Republicans. Despite my own wave of rhetorical destruction against specific Republicans, there are, believe it or not, Republicans and conservatives that I respect and admire. Sometimes the Republicans I respect and admire inhabit the same body of the Republican that I am excoriating. I have called many Republicans an “asshole” in the same way that I have called some of my friends “assholes”, as a way of expressing disappointment and anger at their words and deeds. But this still sounds like an excuse. What I am trying to say (and it’s something I don’t do very well, I admit) is that I apologize for the put-downs, the insults, the angry comments, and the overall vitriol that I have spewed towards conservatives.
The novelist Ben Marcus in his novel “The Flame Alphabet” envisioned a world in which all speech has become toxic, that words---written and spoken---literally make us sick to the point of death, and too much exposure will inevitably kill us. The current national conversation, which has become so polarized and divided along political, partisan, and ideological lines, seems to have reached this point. If we are speaking to each other, we are more than likely speaking AT each other, because both sides have stopped listening to what the other side is saying. At this point, we are simply filling in the gaps with our own prejudices and assumptions about what the other side is saying. And we are cruel to one another.
Again, for this, I apologize.
West, in “Guardian of the Republic”, has made the attempt to set aside his own anger and frustration with our political system and the state of the world in order to articulate his views: where he comes from, where he stands, and where he would like to see the country go in the future.
Now, I’m sure that West has said some things in the past that have pissed off many liberals. I know, from what I’ve read in the book, that West has been pissed off by many things liberals have said. Despite all this, he never resorts to the vicious name-calling and cruel mockery that has enflamed the speech of others. This is not to say that he doesn’t criticize liberals and liberal thinking. He does. And, as a liberal, I’ll admit: sometimes we deserve it. Just as I believe that conservatives and their thinking are not above criticism at times either. West, though, actually does it in a way that comes across as level-headed and rational. I may not agree with everything he articulates, but that’s okay. As I often have to remind people whom I have offended, disagreement does not mean dislike.
West starts his book with a brief explanation of the subtitle of his book: “An American Ronin’s Journey to Faith, Family, and Freedom”. A ronin, he explains, was the title given to a samurai without a master during the era of feudal Japan. It was actually considered a disgrace, as ronin were often unemployable. They were often forced either into lives of crime or simple beggars. West isn’t implying that he is either, only that he relates to the idea of being an outcast warrior, because, in a sense, he is.
During his Army career, West reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was in charge of Second Battalion, Twentieth Field Artillery Regiment (Multiple Launch Rocket System), Fourth Infantry Division. During his command, in 2003, intelligence reports indicated that information was being provided to the enemy by a particular Iraqi police officer. The officer was detained, but he wasn’t talking. Thinking of the safety of his men under his command, West pulled a gun on the officer, threatened to kill him if the man did not release information, and then pulled the trigger. West actually fired his gun over the man’s head, but the bluff worked. The officer spilled. The information was later found out to be meaningless, but West could not have known that. West himself reported the incident and voluntarily agreed to an investigation, one that eventually stripped him of his command and earned him an honorable discharge, only after some of his higher-ups fought for him. West, to this day, admits that he would do it again.
I realize that there are some who would consider his actions reckless, dangerous, and violent. Perhaps they are, but they are also, in my opinion, admirable. Even more admirable was his willingness to accept the consequences. In my opinion, West deserves respect---the same respect that anyone who has served time in the military has earned. It is easy to cast judgment as a civilian, thousands of miles away from the battle zone, unaware and unable to even imagine the kinds of threats our servicemen and women face on a daily---hourly---basis. It is not so easy to admit wrong-doing, especially when admitting it could end one’s career, which is essentially what West did. For that, he deserves great respect.
In rather simple, straightforward prose, West writes about his humble lower-middle class beginnings growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, under the tutelage of his beloved late parents, Buck and Snooks West. His parents were life-long registered Democrats, but they instilled him with conservative values. West also writes briefly about his Christian faith, and his strong belief in family. In his opinion, faith and family are two of the “three pillars of conservative thought”, the first being efficient conservative government.
Much of this “down home” persona seems slightly contrived and simplistic, and this part of the book reads more like a transcribed valedictorian speech that West is making to a high school graduating class than an authentic memoir. It is replete with weird colloquialisms like “doggone it” that make him come across as kind of hickish, but I realize that this is all petty and irrelevant criticism. In truth, West just comes across as likable.
The book gets interesting, for me, in the chapters in which he dons his professorial voice, talking about the differences in the philosophies of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and how they each contributed to classical and contemporary models of liberalism and conservativism. This, in turn, inevitably leads into a discussion of the Founding Fathers, how they borrowed ideas from each philosopher, and how those ideas helped to shape the Constitution.
I found this part fascinating, if only for the fact that I now realize why I have such strong socialist leanings, and why the term “liberal” is such a four-letter word to most conservatives and especially Tea-party Republicans. At least, according to the definition of “liberalism” as explained by West: “[C]ontemporary or “postmodern” liberalism isn’t liberalism in the classic sense at all, because today it has no true relationship to the ideals of Locke. It grows from the theories of Rousseau, who gave birth to Marxism and socialism---clearly the antithesis of our American constitutionalism. (p. 122)”
While I find West’s explanation of contemporary “liberalism” accurate, it strikes me as being an over-simplistic deconstruction of what many liberals actually believe. And perhaps this owes more to the fact that many liberals don’t know what the hell they are talking about half the time.
Based on West’s breakdown of conservative thought, I would probably consider myself a conservative when it comes to fiscal issues, because I tend to agree with most conservatives when they rail against big government, over-spending, and creating a welfare state.
Here’s my problem with each of those issues:
*Big government: Like most conservatives, I am leery of governmental intrusion into so many aspects of our lives. I guess I am somewhat libertarian in my views that the federal government probably doesn’t belong in things like transportation, food and drugs, communications, and education, just to name a few. States should probably be handling these things. The problem for me, though, is that past administrations have meddled so much and so largely in these areas, that they have created unstoppable monsters that will take years, if not decades, to reign in. It seems to me that most conservatives want smaller government NOW, which simply isn’t going to happen. Steps need to be taken, I agree, but the smaller government that conservatives dream of probably won’t be a reality in our lifetimes, sad to say.
*Over-spending: I am all for a reduction in governmental wasteful spending, as I think are most people. Unfortunately, I don’t agree with the timeline most conservatives seem to have in regards to getting our spending down (again, RIGHT NOW is simply not realistic), nor do I agree with where a majority of our cuts should be. Most conservatives would agree that entitlements (Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, welfare programs) are the areas that need the most cuts. I disagree. I think the most cuts should be in the one area that seems to be completely off-limits to conservatives: the military. Our country has one of the largest and most powerful militaries in the world. We also have on of the most bloated military budgets in the world. I’m pretty sure we could stand to see a reduction in military spending without serious interference in the effectiveness of our nation’s defense. One area in the military that could stand to see better, more efficient spending is in the salaries of our servicemen and women. The soldiers who serve and protect us are paid deplorably low salaries. Meanwhile, retired admirals and generals are raking in pensions that would make many CEOs of corporations jealous. Many of those high-ranking retirees would agree that that needs to change, and some of them have even come out in favor of reduced pensions.
*Welfare State: I agree with West that there are many abusers of the welfare system, and the welfare system has gotten bigger. The numbers of people using welfare programs, such as food stamps, have increased over the years, not decreased, which was the goal. But where West and other conservatives may see laziness and poor people who have brought poverty upon themselves for their sins, I see people who are, in some cases, working two to three part-time jobs (simply because full-time work isn’t available) and just breaking even. These people aren’t poor because they are spiritually bereft or morally bankrupt. Something else is going on, and I hesitate to say what I think is the problem, for fear of being branded a “socialist” or someone fomenting “class warfare”, but we live in a society of horrific wealth inequality, where those with the most money are given a free pass for unethical (and borderline illegal) business practices because they have bought the right politicians to vote down any legislation that would create much-needed regulations on corporations. I think the most egregious abusers of the welfare state are NOT the ones at the bottom but the ones at the top of the income ladder.
Okay, I’ll step down off my soapbox.
West ends the book with some uncomfortable truths addressed to his fellow black Americans:
(The following statistics are West’s, which aren’t cited)
*“In 2013 the number of Americans on food stamps stood at nearly forty-seven million, up from thirty-two million when Obama took office. (p. 156)”
*“...60 percent of black children grow up in fatherless homes. (p. 159)”
*“There are some eight hundred thousand black men behind bars, and black men as a group have a one in three chance of serving time in prison at some point in their lives.(p. 159)”
*“[A]lmost half of young black men in America’s inner cities are neither working nor in school. (p. 159)”
*“As of April 2013, the reported black unemployment rate was nearing 14 percent; black teen unemployment was more than 30 percent. (p.159)”
*“Black median family income is down, and approximately 32 percent of blacks live below the poverty line. (p.159)”
*“Black businesses represent only 9 percent of startups in America. (p.159)”
I have no reason to doubt these statistics. They represent a sad commentary on a serious injustice happening in this country. For the most part, I agree with West’s assessment that the black community has accepted a dependency culture, one that expects the government to help them. I can’t speak adequately about this, though, for the simple reason that I’m not black, and I have not lived the black experience. While I can supply my own opinions, they probably wouldn’t mean much. West’s, however, are significant and important because he has lived the black experience, albeit a different one than perhaps most black people.
Overall, I commend West for his service to our country, I respect his intelligence, I appreciate the moral principles by which he lives, and while I may not agree with his politics, I applaud his attempt to clearly delineate and articulate his rational conservative platform.
I write this review as one who claims to be a liberal. I also write this review as someone who is not afraid to admit when I am wrong. I also write this review as someone who is willing to listen to views and opinions that I may not necessarily agree with but from which I may learn different ways of thinking. As a liberal, I consider myself open-minded, which I define as having the ability, and willingness, to radically alter my belief system if undeniable evidence is presented.
I say all that by way of preface to my review of “Guardian of the Republic”, a book written by a conservative.
I will admit that before reading this book I had never heard of Allen West. A Tea-Party Republican who served two years as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida’s 22nd district, West has served in the Army, was deployed to Kuwait in ’91 and Iraq in ’03, taught high school for a year, briefly worked as a defense contractor, and currently makes regular appearances on Fox News. West is also an African-American.
In today’s political climate, being a black conservative---a black Republican---is akin to being a Nazi-sympathizing Jew during the Holocaust. It is the punchline for a late-night talk show host. It is, sadly, viewed by many black people as being a contemporary “Uncle Tom”.
I am just as guilty as most liberals of adding to the negative rhetoric used to excoriate conservatives in general, black conservatives in particular. Not that I had many black conservatives to excoriate, as most of the vocal conservatives and Republicans that I have lambasted have been white. While I have tried not to ridicule and demean the party as a whole, it is perhaps little comfort to those conservatives who take offense at many vocal liberals’ often brutal (and occasionally justifiable) tirades against the idiotic statements and actions of certain Republicans. Despite my own wave of rhetorical destruction against specific Republicans, there are, believe it or not, Republicans and conservatives that I respect and admire. Sometimes the Republicans I respect and admire inhabit the same body of the Republican that I am excoriating. I have called many Republicans an “asshole” in the same way that I have called some of my friends “assholes”, as a way of expressing disappointment and anger at their words and deeds. But this still sounds like an excuse. What I am trying to say (and it’s something I don’t do very well, I admit) is that I apologize for the put-downs, the insults, the angry comments, and the overall vitriol that I have spewed towards conservatives.
The novelist Ben Marcus in his novel “The Flame Alphabet” envisioned a world in which all speech has become toxic, that words---written and spoken---literally make us sick to the point of death, and too much exposure will inevitably kill us. The current national conversation, which has become so polarized and divided along political, partisan, and ideological lines, seems to have reached this point. If we are speaking to each other, we are more than likely speaking AT each other, because both sides have stopped listening to what the other side is saying. At this point, we are simply filling in the gaps with our own prejudices and assumptions about what the other side is saying. And we are cruel to one another.
Again, for this, I apologize.
West, in “Guardian of the Republic”, has made the attempt to set aside his own anger and frustration with our political system and the state of the world in order to articulate his views: where he comes from, where he stands, and where he would like to see the country go in the future.
Now, I’m sure that West has said some things in the past that have pissed off many liberals. I know, from what I’ve read in the book, that West has been pissed off by many things liberals have said. Despite all this, he never resorts to the vicious name-calling and cruel mockery that has enflamed the speech of others. This is not to say that he doesn’t criticize liberals and liberal thinking. He does. And, as a liberal, I’ll admit: sometimes we deserve it. Just as I believe that conservatives and their thinking are not above criticism at times either. West, though, actually does it in a way that comes across as level-headed and rational. I may not agree with everything he articulates, but that’s okay. As I often have to remind people whom I have offended, disagreement does not mean dislike.
West starts his book with a brief explanation of the subtitle of his book: “An American Ronin’s Journey to Faith, Family, and Freedom”. A ronin, he explains, was the title given to a samurai without a master during the era of feudal Japan. It was actually considered a disgrace, as ronin were often unemployable. They were often forced either into lives of crime or simple beggars. West isn’t implying that he is either, only that he relates to the idea of being an outcast warrior, because, in a sense, he is.
During his Army career, West reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was in charge of Second Battalion, Twentieth Field Artillery Regiment (Multiple Launch Rocket System), Fourth Infantry Division. During his command, in 2003, intelligence reports indicated that information was being provided to the enemy by a particular Iraqi police officer. The officer was detained, but he wasn’t talking. Thinking of the safety of his men under his command, West pulled a gun on the officer, threatened to kill him if the man did not release information, and then pulled the trigger. West actually fired his gun over the man’s head, but the bluff worked. The officer spilled. The information was later found out to be meaningless, but West could not have known that. West himself reported the incident and voluntarily agreed to an investigation, one that eventually stripped him of his command and earned him an honorable discharge, only after some of his higher-ups fought for him. West, to this day, admits that he would do it again.
I realize that there are some who would consider his actions reckless, dangerous, and violent. Perhaps they are, but they are also, in my opinion, admirable. Even more admirable was his willingness to accept the consequences. In my opinion, West deserves respect---the same respect that anyone who has served time in the military has earned. It is easy to cast judgment as a civilian, thousands of miles away from the battle zone, unaware and unable to even imagine the kinds of threats our servicemen and women face on a daily---hourly---basis. It is not so easy to admit wrong-doing, especially when admitting it could end one’s career, which is essentially what West did. For that, he deserves great respect.
In rather simple, straightforward prose, West writes about his humble lower-middle class beginnings growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, under the tutelage of his beloved late parents, Buck and Snooks West. His parents were life-long registered Democrats, but they instilled him with conservative values. West also writes briefly about his Christian faith, and his strong belief in family. In his opinion, faith and family are two of the “three pillars of conservative thought”, the first being efficient conservative government.
Much of this “down home” persona seems slightly contrived and simplistic, and this part of the book reads more like a transcribed valedictorian speech that West is making to a high school graduating class than an authentic memoir. It is replete with weird colloquialisms like “doggone it” that make him come across as kind of hickish, but I realize that this is all petty and irrelevant criticism. In truth, West just comes across as likable.
The book gets interesting, for me, in the chapters in which he dons his professorial voice, talking about the differences in the philosophies of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and how they each contributed to classical and contemporary models of liberalism and conservativism. This, in turn, inevitably leads into a discussion of the Founding Fathers, how they borrowed ideas from each philosopher, and how those ideas helped to shape the Constitution.
I found this part fascinating, if only for the fact that I now realize why I have such strong socialist leanings, and why the term “liberal” is such a four-letter word to most conservatives and especially Tea-party Republicans. At least, according to the definition of “liberalism” as explained by West: “[C]ontemporary or “postmodern” liberalism isn’t liberalism in the classic sense at all, because today it has no true relationship to the ideals of Locke. It grows from the theories of Rousseau, who gave birth to Marxism and socialism---clearly the antithesis of our American constitutionalism. (p. 122)”
While I find West’s explanation of contemporary “liberalism” accurate, it strikes me as being an over-simplistic deconstruction of what many liberals actually believe. And perhaps this owes more to the fact that many liberals don’t know what the hell they are talking about half the time.
Based on West’s breakdown of conservative thought, I would probably consider myself a conservative when it comes to fiscal issues, because I tend to agree with most conservatives when they rail against big government, over-spending, and creating a welfare state.
Here’s my problem with each of those issues:
*Big government: Like most conservatives, I am leery of governmental intrusion into so many aspects of our lives. I guess I am somewhat libertarian in my views that the federal government probably doesn’t belong in things like transportation, food and drugs, communications, and education, just to name a few. States should probably be handling these things. The problem for me, though, is that past administrations have meddled so much and so largely in these areas, that they have created unstoppable monsters that will take years, if not decades, to reign in. It seems to me that most conservatives want smaller government NOW, which simply isn’t going to happen. Steps need to be taken, I agree, but the smaller government that conservatives dream of probably won’t be a reality in our lifetimes, sad to say.
*Over-spending: I am all for a reduction in governmental wasteful spending, as I think are most people. Unfortunately, I don’t agree with the timeline most conservatives seem to have in regards to getting our spending down (again, RIGHT NOW is simply not realistic), nor do I agree with where a majority of our cuts should be. Most conservatives would agree that entitlements (Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, welfare programs) are the areas that need the most cuts. I disagree. I think the most cuts should be in the one area that seems to be completely off-limits to conservatives: the military. Our country has one of the largest and most powerful militaries in the world. We also have on of the most bloated military budgets in the world. I’m pretty sure we could stand to see a reduction in military spending without serious interference in the effectiveness of our nation’s defense. One area in the military that could stand to see better, more efficient spending is in the salaries of our servicemen and women. The soldiers who serve and protect us are paid deplorably low salaries. Meanwhile, retired admirals and generals are raking in pensions that would make many CEOs of corporations jealous. Many of those high-ranking retirees would agree that that needs to change, and some of them have even come out in favor of reduced pensions.
*Welfare State: I agree with West that there are many abusers of the welfare system, and the welfare system has gotten bigger. The numbers of people using welfare programs, such as food stamps, have increased over the years, not decreased, which was the goal. But where West and other conservatives may see laziness and poor people who have brought poverty upon themselves for their sins, I see people who are, in some cases, working two to three part-time jobs (simply because full-time work isn’t available) and just breaking even. These people aren’t poor because they are spiritually bereft or morally bankrupt. Something else is going on, and I hesitate to say what I think is the problem, for fear of being branded a “socialist” or someone fomenting “class warfare”, but we live in a society of horrific wealth inequality, where those with the most money are given a free pass for unethical (and borderline illegal) business practices because they have bought the right politicians to vote down any legislation that would create much-needed regulations on corporations. I think the most egregious abusers of the welfare state are NOT the ones at the bottom but the ones at the top of the income ladder.
Okay, I’ll step down off my soapbox.
West ends the book with some uncomfortable truths addressed to his fellow black Americans:
(The following statistics are West’s, which aren’t cited)
*“In 2013 the number of Americans on food stamps stood at nearly forty-seven million, up from thirty-two million when Obama took office. (p. 156)”
*“...60 percent of black children grow up in fatherless homes. (p. 159)”
*“There are some eight hundred thousand black men behind bars, and black men as a group have a one in three chance of serving time in prison at some point in their lives.(p. 159)”
*“[A]lmost half of young black men in America’s inner cities are neither working nor in school. (p. 159)”
*“As of April 2013, the reported black unemployment rate was nearing 14 percent; black teen unemployment was more than 30 percent. (p.159)”
*“Black median family income is down, and approximately 32 percent of blacks live below the poverty line. (p.159)”
*“Black businesses represent only 9 percent of startups in America. (p.159)”
I have no reason to doubt these statistics. They represent a sad commentary on a serious injustice happening in this country. For the most part, I agree with West’s assessment that the black community has accepted a dependency culture, one that expects the government to help them. I can’t speak adequately about this, though, for the simple reason that I’m not black, and I have not lived the black experience. While I can supply my own opinions, they probably wouldn’t mean much. West’s, however, are significant and important because he has lived the black experience, albeit a different one than perhaps most black people.
Overall, I commend West for his service to our country, I respect his intelligence, I appreciate the moral principles by which he lives, and while I may not agree with his politics, I applaud his attempt to clearly delineate and articulate his rational conservative platform.
October 3, 2014
Excellent book! Allen West discusses his beliefs and what in his upbringing brought him to them. He also sets out in plain English what he believes will make this country the proud, strong, Christian nation it was meant to be. I would LOVE for him to be our President!
August 2, 2018
I already thought of Col. Allen West as an awesome man of integrity, so after reading this book and learning so much more about his life, major influences, life philosophy, and his core beliefs, I am at a loss for more superlatives to describe him. He shares a lot of the life lessons he has learned and offers suggestions from his experience for keeping America strong and free. Everyone should read this to learn how someone with much stacked against him still manages to become successful at whatever he sets his mind to. He also shares examples of Old School values such as respect for elders, civility, family, and community that seem sorely lacking these days. Great read and one that has me wishing I could add more stars. Everyone can get something from this book, especially if they are open minded and care about America.
April 11, 2014
The reason that I am a Conservative can be summarized by three important influences:
1. The influence of my parents and grandparents.
2. The leadership of President Ronald Reagan which restored American exceptionalism.
3. The Conscience of a Conservative by Barry Goldwater
The Conscience of a Conservative was written by Barry Goldwater in 1961. I didn't read it until I was a high school student and later read it as an adult. It left a profound mark on me and continues to wield a mighty influence. But a new book by former U.S Representative Allen West could easily serve as the new barometer for Conservatives. Indeed, it could easily be considered The Conscience of a Conservative for the 21st century. Guardian of the Republic is Congressman West's plea to restore the vision of the founding fathers. It is his earnest appeal to return to the ideological roots that make America great.
Part I: My Conservative Roots
Part one explores the background of Congressman West, a Lt. Colonel in the military who was raised in Atlanta and influenced by his parents which shaped him into the man he is today.
Part II: Conservative Principles
Part two is a primer on conservative ideology which stands in the tradition of President Ronald Reagan. The author includes the basic philosophical and historical framework which undergirds a strong conservative stance. Among these principles include limited government, fiscal responsibility, a free market, individualism, a strong national defense, and an understanding that all of man's freedoms come ultimately from God.
West includes three "pillars of conservative thought" which include effective and efficient conservative government, peace through strength, and traditional American values.
None of these are new ideas. But the reframing of these conservative principles is a welcome reminder which should call America back to her founding principles.
Part III: Conservatism in the Black Community
Part three may be the most interesting section. The author calls black Americans to return to their roots - for they "fail to understand the soul of [their] souls." West reminds readers the reason for the establishment of the Republican Party: "the abolition of slavery through the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment." Yet many social programs only create dependency on the government and enslave people in the final analysis. What's the bottom line? West argues that these programs are tantamount to a "twenty-first century economic plantation." Slavery ended long ago, yet a new brand of slavery continues - a kind of slavery that needs to be abolished once again.
Part IV: The Future of the American Republic
Congressman West pleads with Americans to stand alert. He challenges Americans to wrestle with some critical questions that will have an impact on the future direction of our country:
Do we want an opportunity society, or a dependency society?
Do we prioritize preeminence of the individual, or dominance of the state?
Will we choose individual exceptionalism, or collective relativism?
Do we value wealth creation and expansion, or wealth redistribution?
Will we bet on economic freedom, or economic enslavement?
Do we stand for principle, or for party?
Do we want policy, or politics?
Congressman West warns readers, "If there is to be a future for this republic, we must elect good leaders, not highly marketed, well-politicized petty usurpers and impostors."
While Congressman West has been caricatured as an "outcast" by some and a "war criminal" by others, nothing could be further from the truth. He has been falsely maligned and his character has been unjustly impugned - all in keeping with Saul Alinsky's horrible diatribe, Rules For Radicals. Allen West is a breath of fresh air in a day when political expediency and opinion polls appear to rule the floor of congress and the White House. Congressman West is a man who says what he means and means what he says. He is unmoved by the banter of political pundits. And he refuses to be intimidated by the progressive agenda which is steeped in the ruinous ideology of socialism. Allen West has led by example. He has served our nation well. He has guarded the republic with honor, courage, and dignity. Perhaps he can wield his influence in the Oval Office one day. America would be a better place with this principled man behind the most powerful desk in the world.
www.baldreformer.wordpress.com
1. The influence of my parents and grandparents.
2. The leadership of President Ronald Reagan which restored American exceptionalism.
3. The Conscience of a Conservative by Barry Goldwater
The Conscience of a Conservative was written by Barry Goldwater in 1961. I didn't read it until I was a high school student and later read it as an adult. It left a profound mark on me and continues to wield a mighty influence. But a new book by former U.S Representative Allen West could easily serve as the new barometer for Conservatives. Indeed, it could easily be considered The Conscience of a Conservative for the 21st century. Guardian of the Republic is Congressman West's plea to restore the vision of the founding fathers. It is his earnest appeal to return to the ideological roots that make America great.
Part I: My Conservative Roots
Part one explores the background of Congressman West, a Lt. Colonel in the military who was raised in Atlanta and influenced by his parents which shaped him into the man he is today.
Part II: Conservative Principles
Part two is a primer on conservative ideology which stands in the tradition of President Ronald Reagan. The author includes the basic philosophical and historical framework which undergirds a strong conservative stance. Among these principles include limited government, fiscal responsibility, a free market, individualism, a strong national defense, and an understanding that all of man's freedoms come ultimately from God.
West includes three "pillars of conservative thought" which include effective and efficient conservative government, peace through strength, and traditional American values.
None of these are new ideas. But the reframing of these conservative principles is a welcome reminder which should call America back to her founding principles.
Part III: Conservatism in the Black Community
Part three may be the most interesting section. The author calls black Americans to return to their roots - for they "fail to understand the soul of [their] souls." West reminds readers the reason for the establishment of the Republican Party: "the abolition of slavery through the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment." Yet many social programs only create dependency on the government and enslave people in the final analysis. What's the bottom line? West argues that these programs are tantamount to a "twenty-first century economic plantation." Slavery ended long ago, yet a new brand of slavery continues - a kind of slavery that needs to be abolished once again.
Part IV: The Future of the American Republic
Congressman West pleads with Americans to stand alert. He challenges Americans to wrestle with some critical questions that will have an impact on the future direction of our country:
Do we want an opportunity society, or a dependency society?
Do we prioritize preeminence of the individual, or dominance of the state?
Will we choose individual exceptionalism, or collective relativism?
Do we value wealth creation and expansion, or wealth redistribution?
Will we bet on economic freedom, or economic enslavement?
Do we stand for principle, or for party?
Do we want policy, or politics?
Congressman West warns readers, "If there is to be a future for this republic, we must elect good leaders, not highly marketed, well-politicized petty usurpers and impostors."
While Congressman West has been caricatured as an "outcast" by some and a "war criminal" by others, nothing could be further from the truth. He has been falsely maligned and his character has been unjustly impugned - all in keeping with Saul Alinsky's horrible diatribe, Rules For Radicals. Allen West is a breath of fresh air in a day when political expediency and opinion polls appear to rule the floor of congress and the White House. Congressman West is a man who says what he means and means what he says. He is unmoved by the banter of political pundits. And he refuses to be intimidated by the progressive agenda which is steeped in the ruinous ideology of socialism. Allen West has led by example. He has served our nation well. He has guarded the republic with honor, courage, and dignity. Perhaps he can wield his influence in the Oval Office one day. America would be a better place with this principled man behind the most powerful desk in the world.
www.baldreformer.wordpress.com
April 24, 2014
What a wonderfully inspiring book. West is truly one of the good guys, a guy who should one day be president. The book is broken up into several sections dealing with such things as his biography-----especially the lessons he learned from his parents and from his years in the Army, his political views, and a discussion of what it means to be a black conservative today. The book was a very quick, easy read but loaded with the kind of optimism tempered with caution that reminds me of Ronal Reagan. Allen West wrote this book as a prelude to a presidential bid, I'd bet. I would be happy to vote for him.
June 10, 2014
Allen West a true guard of America
Allen West a true guard of America
I want to thank Allen for taking the time to share his story through this book. But I have to thank him mostly for his honorable service to the Republic of America, it is men and women like him that will, with the help of God and guts, make America great again. Thank You Sir!
Allen West a true guard of America
I want to thank Allen for taking the time to share his story through this book. But I have to thank him mostly for his honorable service to the Republic of America, it is men and women like him that will, with the help of God and guts, make America great again. Thank You Sir!
July 14, 2014
I wish this guy were in public office still. he'd make a great president. It's just it'll never happen, because of how conservative blacks are demonized by all of the liberal whites, especially the ones in the media.
It's an intellectual book, but not too "headdy". It's definitely worth the read if you can find the time.
It's an intellectual book, but not too "headdy". It's definitely worth the read if you can find the time.
July 30, 2015
I had the opportunity to meet Allen West recently and have him sign a copy of his book. I admire the man for who he is and what he believes in and stands for. I think his book gets to the crux of the matter and is well worth the time. I hope to see him run for a key political office in the future.
June 26, 2014
A worth-while message from a strong and principled man. I wish we had more like him.
November 12, 2017
Whether you agree with Col. West or not, you have to admire that he speaks his conviction, no matter the costs. This was a great read and I did not realize the depth of disintegration in the African American community. I like Col. West have hope that America can regain the virtues of the Republic it was founded to be. But it will take people taking a stand in what they believe, not standing on the sidelines silenced by those that attack those that do not agree with them. A good, but humbling read.
February 20, 2020
4.33 stars. Powerful and spot on. West posits a well thought out philosophy of life from the conservative perspective and rationale for supporting and defending the American republic. He is open, honest, and at times forceful without being provocative. I found his chapters on the pillars of conservative thought and conflicting philosophies of governance very enlightening, thorough, and easy for anyone to understand. This is a concise primer for the beginner and an excellent summary for the initiated in guarding our republic.
October 3, 2020
A VERY INSIGHTFUL AND WELL WRITTEN TESTIMONY OF THE BELIEFS AND CONVICTIONS OF THIS MILITARY AND POLITICAL VERTERAN. HE LAYS OUT FOR US A VERY CLEAR AND MEANINGFUL CRITIQUE OF OBAMA AND ALL THE PROGRESSIVES THAT PRECEDED HIM. HE ASKS WHAT WAS OBAMA TRYING TO REMAKE? HE GIVES US A HISTORY LESSON ON WHAT THE FOUNDING FATHERS ENVISIONED FOR THE COUNTRY AND HOW THAT UNFORTUNETLY IS THE EXACT OPPOSITE OF WHAT THE LEFT IS DOING TO THIS COUNTRY NOW IN ITS RHETORIC, ITS POLICIES AND ITS POLITICIANS.
July 9, 2018
Many great quotes and straightforward ways to differentiate conservative and liberal politics. A good historical perspective on where are are at today. He also has an interesting and compelling personal story.
August 14, 2025
Very good information to know. I met him and he was truly a humble person
September 7, 2016
It was very difficult to rate this book because the ideas expressed ought to receive five stars, but the writing itself should be no higher than three. The book was awkwardly put together, consisting of four brief sections: My Conservative Roots, Conservative Principals, Conservatism in the Black Community, and The Future of the American Republic.
The first section mostly autobiographical. While it was interesting, it was difficult to get into it because it was so brief. It was as if this book was to be a little of an autobiography and a little of "here's what I think" book. Many writers would disperse the information from the first section throughout the rest of it to create one larger story of how one has reached a certain worldview.
The second section was very good, but also written kind of poorly. He introduces the ideas of Hobbes, Rousseau, and Locke, which was outstanding. But then he switches to quoting folks like Jefferson, Washington, and Jay which is done awkwardly. Very often it's "I think blah blah blah, and as so-and-so said, 'blah blah blah.'" That exact formula is used many times within only a couple pages. While they are excellent quotes it reminds me of a college freshman's civic paper.
Conservatism in the Black Community was far too short. Again, West's insight is spot-on and incredibly helpful, but this topic itself deserved at least twice as much information than it received.
West puts forward his thoughts on the future of the country as he wraps up "Guardian of the Republic." I think he could have shared a few more ideas, but those he touches on I fully agree with.
It may sound like I'm tearing apart this book, but I don't mean to. I think very highly of Allen West and what he includes in this book is outstanding. We've walked away from the foundation of our country, and that's a problem. I was just a little disappointed in the quality of the writing and the more superficial discussion that occurs in the pages.
The first section mostly autobiographical. While it was interesting, it was difficult to get into it because it was so brief. It was as if this book was to be a little of an autobiography and a little of "here's what I think" book. Many writers would disperse the information from the first section throughout the rest of it to create one larger story of how one has reached a certain worldview.
The second section was very good, but also written kind of poorly. He introduces the ideas of Hobbes, Rousseau, and Locke, which was outstanding. But then he switches to quoting folks like Jefferson, Washington, and Jay which is done awkwardly. Very often it's "I think blah blah blah, and as so-and-so said, 'blah blah blah.'" That exact formula is used many times within only a couple pages. While they are excellent quotes it reminds me of a college freshman's civic paper.
Conservatism in the Black Community was far too short. Again, West's insight is spot-on and incredibly helpful, but this topic itself deserved at least twice as much information than it received.
West puts forward his thoughts on the future of the country as he wraps up "Guardian of the Republic." I think he could have shared a few more ideas, but those he touches on I fully agree with.
It may sound like I'm tearing apart this book, but I don't mean to. I think very highly of Allen West and what he includes in this book is outstanding. We've walked away from the foundation of our country, and that's a problem. I was just a little disappointed in the quality of the writing and the more superficial discussion that occurs in the pages.
June 8, 2014
I'll admit to being a little biased on the subject of former Congressman Allen West, because I know him personally and greatly admire him. He is a controversial figure because he speaks his mind without sugar-coating anything, but I'd rather that than untrue "feel good" words written by a pollster to gain maximum popularity. With Allen West, what you see (and hear) is what you get. It doesn't hurt that I happen to agree with him across the board. Again, I am not unbiased here, and I admit that.
In his book "Guardian of the Republic", Congressman West lets us in on his youth in inner City Georgia, the impact that his parents had, and continue to have, on his life, and his rise through the school system and subsequently through the Army to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. While a controversial war-time action ultimately got him discharged from the Army, what the media usually fails to report is that it was an honorable discharge. West continues to stand by the decision that he made, which may have saved hundreds of American lives, and many others back him on this.
The book is chock-full of American political history, and explains in West's opinion how we have gradually become a divided country - the origins and rise of both the Conservative movement and Socialism (and yes, I agree with him that we are ever moving towards Socialism)
This is an important read, for those who are of a Conservative bent, but also those who have an open mind.
In his book "Guardian of the Republic", Congressman West lets us in on his youth in inner City Georgia, the impact that his parents had, and continue to have, on his life, and his rise through the school system and subsequently through the Army to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. While a controversial war-time action ultimately got him discharged from the Army, what the media usually fails to report is that it was an honorable discharge. West continues to stand by the decision that he made, which may have saved hundreds of American lives, and many others back him on this.
The book is chock-full of American political history, and explains in West's opinion how we have gradually become a divided country - the origins and rise of both the Conservative movement and Socialism (and yes, I agree with him that we are ever moving towards Socialism)
This is an important read, for those who are of a Conservative bent, but also those who have an open mind.
June 19, 2014
An American Ronin
As soon as I heard a radio interview with Allen West about his new book, I reserved it from the local public library. Not only did I learn many things about Mr. West that I'd never known before, but I find I'd really like the guy. It's a quick read—only 205 pages of text—sometimes repeating particular facts from chapter to chapter as a master's thesis will do so a researcher can quickly find only the parts he or she needs. This writing style makes good sense as West has two master's degrees. He's very proud of his current wife and her PhD, which, as she pointed out, still trumps his own honorary doctorate. Colloquialisms pop up to emphasize his feelings, reminding me of another military man I've known who took care to be respectful when speaking and not to stomp on others' sensibilities with vulgarity. He's reverential for all the right reasons and to the right causes. Not only would I like the man as a friend, I would trust him with being the Guardian of the Republic we so desperately need right now. I heartily recommend this to anyone who is curious about him as I was, and to those who want to get to know a serious potential candidate for another high federal office.
As soon as I heard a radio interview with Allen West about his new book, I reserved it from the local public library. Not only did I learn many things about Mr. West that I'd never known before, but I find I'd really like the guy. It's a quick read—only 205 pages of text—sometimes repeating particular facts from chapter to chapter as a master's thesis will do so a researcher can quickly find only the parts he or she needs. This writing style makes good sense as West has two master's degrees. He's very proud of his current wife and her PhD, which, as she pointed out, still trumps his own honorary doctorate. Colloquialisms pop up to emphasize his feelings, reminding me of another military man I've known who took care to be respectful when speaking and not to stomp on others' sensibilities with vulgarity. He's reverential for all the right reasons and to the right causes. Not only would I like the man as a friend, I would trust him with being the Guardian of the Republic we so desperately need right now. I heartily recommend this to anyone who is curious about him as I was, and to those who want to get to know a serious potential candidate for another high federal office.
May 15, 2014
Colonel West packs a lot into this concise, well written, part-biography, part history lesson, and part position/policy statement book. In it, he covers the founding of our country, the history and conditions that lead to the creation of the Constitution and Bill of Rights. He documents the history of Islam and its effects on current world events. He also manages to cover his own upbringing and his military career. All in all, a well-rounded book, written by a well-rounded individual.
This guy gets it. He would get my vote as President. Colonel West has the content of character that would be admirable in any person of any skin color or gender.
This guy gets it. He would get my vote as President. Colonel West has the content of character that would be admirable in any person of any skin color or gender.
April 8, 2014
An excellent book from a courageous and exceptional American.
Allen West inspires me and gives me courage to confront the enemies of this American Republic.
A scholarly lesson in what our Constitution means and what is was meant to be by the constructors of it and why they chose, every so deliberately, everything they wrote.
A handbook on how to be strong and oppose those who ar working hard to destroy what is good and great in out beloved Country.
I will keep it handy and re-read it often.
Count me in !
Allen West inspires me and gives me courage to confront the enemies of this American Republic.
A scholarly lesson in what our Constitution means and what is was meant to be by the constructors of it and why they chose, every so deliberately, everything they wrote.
A handbook on how to be strong and oppose those who ar working hard to destroy what is good and great in out beloved Country.
I will keep it handy and re-read it often.
Count me in !
July 18, 2014
I give Allen West 5 stars, but the book only gets 3...
Allen West is a principled man who does what he believes is right. He is a statesman, not a politician. The book was just not written well, so I can't give it the same credit that I give the author.
If you don't know who Allen West is, or if you think that it is an oxymoron to call someone a black conservative, you need to read this book. Even if you don't agree with his conclusions, if you keep an open mind you will come away with respect for this man.
Allen West is a principled man who does what he believes is right. He is a statesman, not a politician. The book was just not written well, so I can't give it the same credit that I give the author.
If you don't know who Allen West is, or if you think that it is an oxymoron to call someone a black conservative, you need to read this book. Even if you don't agree with his conclusions, if you keep an open mind you will come away with respect for this man.
April 30, 2014
Real American Hero
After reading this book I have a brand new respect for Allen West. He was already one of my favorite politicians, but hearing about his life and background, his policies and decisions come into perspective. I suggest anyone interested in black conservative politics and decisions regarding the major topics of today to read this book. the audio book is read by Allen West, which makes listening to it a great treat.
After reading this book I have a brand new respect for Allen West. He was already one of my favorite politicians, but hearing about his life and background, his policies and decisions come into perspective. I suggest anyone interested in black conservative politics and decisions regarding the major topics of today to read this book. the audio book is read by Allen West, which makes listening to it a great treat.
May 4, 2015
Excellent book for those who like to read about the heroes, the real heroes of this country. This book is very autobiographical about Allen West, and His growing up years. It is also about how this nation was founded and quite a few references to the Constitution and how our country is changing from what it used to be. Very well written. I learned a lot about our Constitution, truth, values, etc.
June 9, 2014
A good read from a true American Patriot
Allen West is definitely not afraid to speak his mind when it comes to the state of this country. I'm neither Democrat nor Republican and I don't like the two party system. I am in agreeance that a third political party based on principles should emerge, e.g. the Constitution Party. Col. West definitely has some good ideas.
Allen West is definitely not afraid to speak his mind when it comes to the state of this country. I'm neither Democrat nor Republican and I don't like the two party system. I am in agreeance that a third political party based on principles should emerge, e.g. the Constitution Party. Col. West definitely has some good ideas.
December 7, 2014
Skip the cowardly, huckster, race-baiting bottom feeders who will hawk any big lie for self promotion, civil society be damned. Allen West is a serious, devoted, selfless, studious, non-PC American patriot who's already given more than his share back to his dear Republic. Keep up the fight, sir. There are millions of us Americans out here who've got your back.
May 4, 2014
Part memoir, part American political history text, all West's trademark straightforward style. West comes across as sensible always, but in his book he also shows his tremendous knowledge of our history and the rationale behind the founding and Constitution. A remarkable read.
August 18, 2016
This is an excellent source of the history of our republic, the historical events that led to the ideas incorporated into the US Constitution, and international events and people who impacted the goals of our founding fathers.
December 26, 2014
I think EVERY American needs to read this book.
June 10, 2014
Well written and very informative.
June 19, 2014
Go Allen West. Kick butt and take no prisoners. Need more patriots like you!
June 28, 2014
I enjoyed his point of view and candidness. It seemed a bit rushed and unfocused at times. However, I believe that his logic is clear and concise and his ideas and observations are well thought out.
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