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The Truth of War: Lethality in Combat, a Study of the Real Nature of Battle
The Truth of War unveils a penetrating exploration of the most contentious facets of military combat, delving into the necessity of killing, the complex decisions surrounding the taking or sparing of prisoners, and the intricate dilemmas concerning the targeting of civilians. With a profound analysis of seven significant conflicts, this book challenges conventional beliefs, arguing that war possesses its own set of rules that often diverge from society's established laws and values. At its core, the book confronts the harsh reality that soldiers engaged in close-quarter combat must swiftly adapt to become efficient killers in order to survive, emphasising the stark choice they face, hone their lethal skills or meet a perilous demise. The author contends that the requirements of war demand an unflinching acceptance of this disturbing truth. By drawing from history, encompassing conflicts such as the Boer War, World Wars I and II, the wars in Korea, Vietnam, the Falklands, Iraq and Afghanistan, the author presents a comprehensive examination of the ethical dilemmas embedded within each episode. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, The Truth of War peels back the layers of sanitised perceptions, exposing the gritty realities that within the realm of warfare. In unveiling the hidden truths and complexities of war, this brilliant and thought-provoking book shines a blazing light on the multifaceted nature of combat, challenging readers to reevaluate their preconceived notions and confront the uncomfortable truths that lie at the heart of humanity's most enduring and controversial endeavour - war.
652 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
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About the author
Tom Lewis
16 books1 followerDr Thomas Anthony "Tom" Lewis, OAM is an Australian author, military historian, editor, teacher, and former naval officer. An author since 1989, Lewis worked as a high school teacher, and served as naval officer for 20 years, seeing active service in Baghdad during the Iraq war, and working in East Timor.
In June 2003, Lewis was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for meritorious service to the Royal Australian Navy, particularly in the promotion of Australian naval history.
Dr Lewis is the author of 14 books and continues to work on a variety of military history research projects, including acting as Lead Historian for The Territory Remembers, the NT Government's commemoration of 75 years since the first air raid on the NT in 1942.
In June 2003, Lewis was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for meritorious service to the Royal Australian Navy, particularly in the promotion of Australian naval history.
Dr Lewis is the author of 14 books and continues to work on a variety of military history research projects, including acting as Lead Historian for The Territory Remembers, the NT Government's commemoration of 75 years since the first air raid on the NT in 1942.
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
January 4, 2019
This is a critique of the international laws and conventions covering war crimes and the situations where they are applied. The book covers the various ways combatants and non combatants die in conflict and how those deaths should be treated by law.
He attempts to give the reader an understanding of how various deaths happen and when prosecutions should not be pursued. For example, taking prisoners. It is considered an unlawful act to kill an enemy soldier who is or has surrendered. However remember if the soldiers have been trained well they will be reflex killers and often shoot at movement. Also there have been countless cases where soldiers pretended to surrender and then went on to take advantage of the situation and kill their captors. Also what of the situation where if you can't keep the prisoners or let them go without abandoning the operation resulting in more casualties for your side.
I feel the author has done a good job of explaining why he believes that the Geneva Conventions are dated and need reviewing. There are many situations covered where their application in modern war will result in a miscarriage of justice. Additionally he believes the government that trained them to efficiently kill should take some responsibility for their actions in combat.
If you are looking for a realistic breakdown of what happens in combat this book is a good place to start. It should also be essential reading for any civilian who wishes to criticise soldiers actions from the armchair. The media is rarely right.
This book is well referenced throughout and well argued. 5 stars
He attempts to give the reader an understanding of how various deaths happen and when prosecutions should not be pursued. For example, taking prisoners. It is considered an unlawful act to kill an enemy soldier who is or has surrendered. However remember if the soldiers have been trained well they will be reflex killers and often shoot at movement. Also there have been countless cases where soldiers pretended to surrender and then went on to take advantage of the situation and kill their captors. Also what of the situation where if you can't keep the prisoners or let them go without abandoning the operation resulting in more casualties for your side.
I feel the author has done a good job of explaining why he believes that the Geneva Conventions are dated and need reviewing. There are many situations covered where their application in modern war will result in a miscarriage of justice. Additionally he believes the government that trained them to efficiently kill should take some responsibility for their actions in combat.
If you are looking for a realistic breakdown of what happens in combat this book is a good place to start. It should also be essential reading for any civilian who wishes to criticise soldiers actions from the armchair. The media is rarely right.
This book is well referenced throughout and well argued. 5 stars
Displaying 1 of 1 review