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Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond between a Marine and a Navy SEAL that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice
Four weeks after Navy SEALs had killed Osama bin Laden, President Obama stood in Arlington National Cemetery to deliver his Memorial Day address. He extolled the heroism and sacrifice of the two men buried side by side in the graves before Travis Manion, a fallen US Marine, and Brendan Looney, a fallen US Navy SEAL. Although they were killed three years apart, one in Iraq and one inAfghanistan, these two former roommates and best friends were now buried together-“brothers forever.”Award-winning journalist Tom Sileo and Travis's father, Colonel Tom Manion, USMCR (Ret.), tell the intimate and personal story of how these Naval Academy roommates defined a generation's sacrifice in Afghanistan and Iraq. From Travis's incredible bravery on the streets of Fallujah to Brendan's anguished SEAL training in the wake of his friend's death and later acts of heroism in the mountains of Afghanistan, Brothers Forever is a remarkable story of war and friendship.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2014
112 people are currently reading
1108 people want to read
About the author
Tom Sileo
8 books31 followersTom Sileo is the author of BE BOLD (Fidelis, 2022) and co-author of BROTHERS FOREVER (Hachette, 2014), FIRE IN MY EYES (Hachette, 2016), 8 SECONDS OF COURAGE (Simon & Schuster, 2017) and THREE WISE MEN (St. Martin's Press, 2021). He is represented by the WordServe Literary agency. Tom is a contributing senior editor of The Stream and recipient of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation's General Oliver P. Smith Award. He lives in Florida.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
August 26, 2021
What an incredible and powerful read this was for me, heartbreaking yet inspiring.
It follows the lives of two young men from their days as room mates at the US Naval Academy at Annapolis until they both lost their lives fighting for their country, the one a Marine in Iraq and the other a SEAL in Afghanistan. The book is very well written by Tom Sileo and the father of Travis Manion, and takes you along on their journeys from boys fresh out of school to being inspiring warriors who wanted to serve and make a difference in the world. It also takes you into their family's homes in the aftermath of their deaths where you feel their loss almost as if it was a personal loss to yourself.
While reading this book and then seeing how things are unraveling again in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover, one can see again what they fought for. Hopefully this new regime will not be as ruthless as the old Taliban regime before 2001 because they know what will come if they misbehave lead by strong men as Manion and Looney.
Amazing read that will stay with me for a very long time and I would highly recommend this to all readers, as you will be inspired to do better after reading about these men and the examples they set.
It follows the lives of two young men from their days as room mates at the US Naval Academy at Annapolis until they both lost their lives fighting for their country, the one a Marine in Iraq and the other a SEAL in Afghanistan. The book is very well written by Tom Sileo and the father of Travis Manion, and takes you along on their journeys from boys fresh out of school to being inspiring warriors who wanted to serve and make a difference in the world. It also takes you into their family's homes in the aftermath of their deaths where you feel their loss almost as if it was a personal loss to yourself.
While reading this book and then seeing how things are unraveling again in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover, one can see again what they fought for. Hopefully this new regime will not be as ruthless as the old Taliban regime before 2001 because they know what will come if they misbehave lead by strong men as Manion and Looney.
Amazing read that will stay with me for a very long time and I would highly recommend this to all readers, as you will be inspired to do better after reading about these men and the examples they set.
September 11, 2014
The publicity surrounding the launch of this book came my way early on via an assortment of emails. “Brothers Forever” is an extraordinary story of two roommates from the United States Naval Academy class of 2004 and the bond they created through friendship, loyalty, devotion, personal challenges, visionary courage, faith and their dedicated selfless sacrifice for freedom. The forward by General John Allen USMC (Ret.) is priceless.
When the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 occurred Travis Manion and Brendan Looney were in the Naval Academy student body knowing their future demanded full well that their current education, leadership training skills and physical fitness would prime them for the call to duty upon graduation. Both accepted their calling not as a burden, but as a positive commitment to serve and protect others. One chose the path to become a Marine Corps officer, while the other became a leading Navy SEAL. Through deployment in distant Operation Freedom ventures one would die in Iraq and one in Afghanistan, but today their caskets rest side by side in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery.
Everyone dies someday. Manion and Looney were full of life and died much too soon, but together they left an everlasting footprint.
The dual biography is a quick read highly emotional rollercoaster that is guaranteed to remain with you.
When the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 occurred Travis Manion and Brendan Looney were in the Naval Academy student body knowing their future demanded full well that their current education, leadership training skills and physical fitness would prime them for the call to duty upon graduation. Both accepted their calling not as a burden, but as a positive commitment to serve and protect others. One chose the path to become a Marine Corps officer, while the other became a leading Navy SEAL. Through deployment in distant Operation Freedom ventures one would die in Iraq and one in Afghanistan, but today their caskets rest side by side in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery.
Everyone dies someday. Manion and Looney were full of life and died much too soon, but together they left an everlasting footprint.
The dual biography is a quick read highly emotional rollercoaster that is guaranteed to remain with you.
June 24, 2014
Before I get started, I know I'm going to get criticized for my rating. So, right off the top, I'm going to say I'm reviewing the BOOK, NOT the Manion and Looney. Their lives should be an example to all of us.
However, like another book that I read that was similar, I felt that the TELLING of the story was weak. Again, like the other, it read like a stack of 4x6 cards that the author had collected during interviews and research and then simply sorted them and tried to link them.
Five stars for the subject material, not so much for the telling.
However, like another book that I read that was similar, I felt that the TELLING of the story was weak. Again, like the other, it read like a stack of 4x6 cards that the author had collected during interviews and research and then simply sorted them and tried to link them.
Five stars for the subject material, not so much for the telling.
January 26, 2025
An amazing story about a Navy SEAL and a Marine who served our country with courage, bravery and the ultimate sacrifice.
This was my third Tom Sileo book so going into it I knew it would be a heavy and brutal read but this one completely gutted me.
While this one was a tearjerker, I found it to be very inspiring. After reading it, it has me applying Manion's and Looney's words to my everyday life. No spoilers here of what they are because I highly encourage you to read this book.
This book is a book I'll carry with me forever. I've read several military books and this one by far has never made me more proud to be an American!
If my review doesn't encourage you to pick up this book, then please look up the Travis Manion Foundation and see how they support our veterans and fallen heroes.
Thank you to the Manion and Looney Families for sharing their stories. Two men I never heard of prior to reading this book; that I'll now carry in my heart.
This was my third Tom Sileo book so going into it I knew it would be a heavy and brutal read but this one completely gutted me.
While this one was a tearjerker, I found it to be very inspiring. After reading it, it has me applying Manion's and Looney's words to my everyday life. No spoilers here of what they are because I highly encourage you to read this book.
This book is a book I'll carry with me forever. I've read several military books and this one by far has never made me more proud to be an American!
If my review doesn't encourage you to pick up this book, then please look up the Travis Manion Foundation and see how they support our veterans and fallen heroes.
Thank you to the Manion and Looney Families for sharing their stories. Two men I never heard of prior to reading this book; that I'll now carry in my heart.
December 2, 2019
I had heard of Travis Manion and his life which he sacrificed as a service member. I didn't know about his roommate or his service also.
November 7, 2019
This book just broke my heart. Since I come from a military family and was in the military myself, I am aware of the sacrifices that military families make and how the majority of our country does not understand what the life of a military family is like. This book illustrates that sacrifice quite well, but it also illustrates the great love of country and fellow soldier that our military has. Yes, this book made me cry multiple times, but it also made me smile and nod about the esprit de corps that abounds in our military. God bless America and her military.
July 23, 2017
Very touching story!
August 28, 2020
“If not me, then who?” That is the solemn sentiment and overriding drive for those who make it their life’s mission to serve their country. For United States Marine Travis Manion and Navy Seal Brendan Looney, that sacred pledge is what motivated them to be a part of the world’s most elite fighting force. West Point roommates and graduates bound together by love and camaraderie, drawn to military service in the wake of the September 11th 2001 terrorist attacks, Brendan and Travis vowed to ensure that the atrocities of 9/11 would never happen again. Their kinship would see them through both good times and bad as The War on Terror has them deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. Ironically, Travis Manion and Brendan Looney would be inexplicably linked in life and in death.
Now, their story is told in the poignant biography “Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond Between a Marine and a Navy Seal that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice.” Written by Colonel Tom Manion (United States Marine Corps retired) and co-authored by Tom Sileo, the audience is introduced to a patriotic duo of elite servicemen who are fiercely devoted to their families and their country in the first eight years of America’s War on Terror. “Brothers Forever” goes beyond the media spin and hot button politics of the War on Terror, offering an intimate portrait of the lives of two Blue Star families and the indescribable anguish of losing two valiant men of honor just three years apart from each other in two of the most dangerous places on earth.
After listening to this book on Audible, I was very impressed with both authors’ delivery and writing styles. In a time when the noble deeds and sacrifices of America’s heroes are left by the wayside, the steadfast courage and legacies of U.S. Marine Travis Manion and Navy Seal Brendan Looney serves as an inspiration to us all. While an emotional rollercoaster, “Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond Between a Marine and a Navy Seal that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice” is a must-read or listen. It’s as good as any film script gets!
Now, their story is told in the poignant biography “Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond Between a Marine and a Navy Seal that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice.” Written by Colonel Tom Manion (United States Marine Corps retired) and co-authored by Tom Sileo, the audience is introduced to a patriotic duo of elite servicemen who are fiercely devoted to their families and their country in the first eight years of America’s War on Terror. “Brothers Forever” goes beyond the media spin and hot button politics of the War on Terror, offering an intimate portrait of the lives of two Blue Star families and the indescribable anguish of losing two valiant men of honor just three years apart from each other in two of the most dangerous places on earth.
After listening to this book on Audible, I was very impressed with both authors’ delivery and writing styles. In a time when the noble deeds and sacrifices of America’s heroes are left by the wayside, the steadfast courage and legacies of U.S. Marine Travis Manion and Navy Seal Brendan Looney serves as an inspiration to us all. While an emotional rollercoaster, “Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond Between a Marine and a Navy Seal that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice” is a must-read or listen. It’s as good as any film script gets!
June 19, 2014
In Brothers Forever, award-winning journalist Tom Sileo and retired Marine Colonel Tom Manion tell the story of Manion's son Travis and his roommate and best friend Brendan Looney. Both gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
The book tells how the two met and became fast friends at the Naval Academy. When they watched the towers fall on 9/11, they knew and understood the seriousness of their task.
Through the book, Sileo and Manion tell of the friendship that Looney and Manion shared. They tell of the faith of a mother who prayed for her son and her second son.
I will admit that I had a hard time getting through the first portion of the book. It seemed a little slow. But, as I knew what was coming and Manion was deployed the intensity grew. Even though I knew it was coming, when Travis died, I felt the loss. I sensed the grief of his family.
This may not be the best written book about the War on Terror and the sacrifices made, but I believe it is one of the most important. While politicians and pundits argue about whether we should have gone to Afghanistan and Iraq, Travis Manion and Brendan Looney accepted the call to defend their country.
They rest beside each other now at Arlington Cemetery. Their story is worth your time.
The book tells how the two met and became fast friends at the Naval Academy. When they watched the towers fall on 9/11, they knew and understood the seriousness of their task.
Through the book, Sileo and Manion tell of the friendship that Looney and Manion shared. They tell of the faith of a mother who prayed for her son and her second son.
I will admit that I had a hard time getting through the first portion of the book. It seemed a little slow. But, as I knew what was coming and Manion was deployed the intensity grew. Even though I knew it was coming, when Travis died, I felt the loss. I sensed the grief of his family.
This may not be the best written book about the War on Terror and the sacrifices made, but I believe it is one of the most important. While politicians and pundits argue about whether we should have gone to Afghanistan and Iraq, Travis Manion and Brendan Looney accepted the call to defend their country.
They rest beside each other now at Arlington Cemetery. Their story is worth your time.
September 5, 2016
I first bought this book because it sounded really good, and it had received great reviews. Once I began reading, I found that the reviews were all very true. Tom Sileo and [Tom Manion] tell the story of US Marine Travis Manion and US Navy SEAL Brendan Looney, who always put their country and men first. The words of Sileo and [Manion] encapsulate the hard work, perseverance, and honor of both Travis Manion and Brendan Looney, who gave their lives fighting for their country. I, agreeing with the many reviews, found this story to be very inspiring and heartfelt. This was the type of book, that once I picked it up, I found it very difficult to put down (Warning: it was also a tear-jerker). I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good story, but also one about two examples of brave, honorable American Heroes.
September 18, 2019
The story is very sad and pretty amazing, but my god is the writing terrible. It is written like a teen romance novel at a 7th grade level. Every paragraph ends with a cliche and there are so many tropes, it really takes away from the book. I really felt like a jerk when I kept telling Libby how bad the writing was, only to look it up and see that one of the deceased officer’s dad wrote the book in collaboration with an author.
Because you probably won’t read the description and are wondering what this is about: there are two officers, one marine and one SEAL, who were best friends and roommates at the naval academy, who died within 4 years of each other overseas. It talks about their experience and their families experience dealing with their loss.
Because you probably won’t read the description and are wondering what this is about: there are two officers, one marine and one SEAL, who were best friends and roommates at the naval academy, who died within 4 years of each other overseas. It talks about their experience and their families experience dealing with their loss.
April 13, 2022
As a military family member, my spouse served in Croatia, Kuwait and Iraq, this was an emotional read. I am amazed at the resilience of the families of Travis and Brendan. And I have son now who is serving as a Lt. JG in the United States Navy. I have met and know so many of his Naval Academy grads and I am forever grateful for the men and women who bravely sign up for service. They are so courageous, bright and selfless. Everyone in this country should thank our military members and families who sacrifice so much to preserve our freedoms. This book helps to understand the commitment that it takes to serve. I hope everyone reads this book!
November 22, 2019
This is an important book that I suggest every American read. The sacrifices made by so many you men and women for the ideal we stand for, the scars left for families who suffer unbelievable loss. This is one such story. One courage, bravery, friendship and family, it’s the story of America in so many ways. Brendan and Travis are heroes, and reminder that it’s not the characters on the movie screens that change the world it’s those in uniform and the fallen buried in the sloping grounds of Arlington national cemetery.
February 3, 2017
This book is tragic and devastating and so very difficult to read BUT it a wonderful tribute to these two selfless, courageous men. What better way to honor them than tell their life stories and detail the incredible sacrifices they made for their country? Every time I read a story about our soldiers I become that much more grateful for their service & dedication to those of us sitting here safe and sound. What an amazing story.
January 2, 2022
This book is more than a book. This book represents the sacrifices that military families make everyday and the sacrifices their love ones make, including the ultimate sacrifice. This is a book of friendship and shows just some of the courageous men and women who fight on the lines for our freedom. This is a book every American should read.
July 7, 2022
I have no sons but as a mother I found the story very moving. Not your typical military read with the blood and guts of war. More of an inspiration. Two very good mottos, " if not me, then who" and " I don't quit".
July 22, 2018
amazing story of great men. difficult to read at times as a mother of a son who's desire is the military. Thank you to the families of all who serve.
November 13, 2020
Great book
This was such a great book to read. It truly shows the sacrifice of the warriors that have fought for our country.
This was such a great book to read. It truly shows the sacrifice of the warriors that have fought for our country.
October 27, 2021
Powerfully written!
October 31, 2023
Friendship and Brotherhood. Brendan Looney and Travis Manion are roommates at the Naval Academy and maintain their friendship throughout their military service. This friendship is based on a shared love of country, athletic competition, and military service. Their connection highlights their sense of purpose while also highlighting their sacrifices (even before their ultimate sacrifice) and makes them, and their families, very inspiring characters.
Family and Grief. The most moving passages of the book involve the families and how they deal with their grief and how they manage their sorrow. Their sense of support is quite moving while also not placing any blame on any American institutions. It’s hard to imagine anyone handling themselves any better than the narrative that was displayed in this book.
If Not Me, Then Who? This phrase, repeated throughout the book, is a central concept of the selfless actions of both Brendan and Travis. Numerous times, it appears, Travis did not have to insert himself into a fight and he kept doing this for his country and his fellow soldiers. Also both Travis and Brendan went above and beyond what was necessary to achieve what they wanted.
Brendan’s Death. This was rather shocking as I wasn’t expecting it to be a mechanical failure as the book implies. Travis’ death was in a combat situation while Brendan’s was hours away from the end of his deployment which makes it even more tragic.
“There is no inscription to define the meaning of their sacrifice. That mission is ours.”
Family and Grief. The most moving passages of the book involve the families and how they deal with their grief and how they manage their sorrow. Their sense of support is quite moving while also not placing any blame on any American institutions. It’s hard to imagine anyone handling themselves any better than the narrative that was displayed in this book.
If Not Me, Then Who? This phrase, repeated throughout the book, is a central concept of the selfless actions of both Brendan and Travis. Numerous times, it appears, Travis did not have to insert himself into a fight and he kept doing this for his country and his fellow soldiers. Also both Travis and Brendan went above and beyond what was necessary to achieve what they wanted.
Brendan’s Death. This was rather shocking as I wasn’t expecting it to be a mechanical failure as the book implies. Travis’ death was in a combat situation while Brendan’s was hours away from the end of his deployment which makes it even more tragic.
“There is no inscription to define the meaning of their sacrifice. That mission is ours.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2024
The story brought me to tears (quite literally) but the writing itself was pretty mediocre, which is the only reason for 4 stars, instead of 5.
November 16, 2020
A quick read and an incredible inspirational story. The message is powerful and the raw realities of self sacrifice will sadden anyone with a heart beat. That said, the writing is not to my taste. I found the over the top American bravado too repetitive and a poor attempt to justify meaning in the loss of two outstanding young man.
February 28, 2023
Amazing
Thank You, a wonderful heart felt trip down an amazing road. Very inspiring. Will look forward for the next book.
Thank You, a wonderful heart felt trip down an amazing road. Very inspiring. Will look forward for the next book.
July 22, 2025
A heartbreaking story but inspirational to the max. Full of lived lessons in what it means to be a man, to be a leader, and to serve something greater than yourself
October 22, 2019
Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond between a Marine and a Navy SEAL that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice is one of the most amazing books I have ever read in my life. Any soul who comes from a military background, has military aspirations, or just loves this country should read this book. The book brings a powerful message to all who read it and is filled more emotions than the brain can comprehend. Award winning journalist Tom Sileo perfectly portrays the story of Brendan Looney and Travis Manion in a way that almost makes you want to go to your local recruiter and sign up yourself. This book portrays what it means to sacrifice everything for the ones you love. I suggest to all who are looking for a new book to read should pick up a copy of Brothers Forever.
September 9, 2021
Amazing book..."If not me then who" - Travis Manion
December 11, 2017
Brothers Forever is the story of Travis Manion, a Marine, and Brendan Looney, a Navy Seal, who devoted their life to doing good. Travis and Brendan first meet at the United states Naval Academy, where they were roommates. This was the start to a friendship that would last a life time. They became closer than brothers. This book tells the stories from when Travis and Brendan amazing lives. I think most people would enjoy this story. Especially anyone who would like to hear the story of two true American heros. This is an action packed book that you don't want to put down. This story is from the time they attended the Naval Academy to the end of their lives. Even though Travis and Brendan were killed in different countries and three years apart they were reunited when they were buried side by side at Arlington National Cemetery.
Before Travis Manion left for his second deployment to Iraq he was asked why he was going. To this he responded "If not me, then who" These were the words he lived his life doing even until the very last moments. He was a true warrior and in my option he will never be forgotten. The same goes for Brendan Looney. He lived by the motto; be strong, be accountable, and never complain. This showed through out his entire life because he never asked somebody to do a task he wouldn't do. Overall Brothers Forever is a great book that anyone would like and enjoy reading.
Before Travis Manion left for his second deployment to Iraq he was asked why he was going. To this he responded "If not me, then who" These were the words he lived his life doing even until the very last moments. He was a true warrior and in my option he will never be forgotten. The same goes for Brendan Looney. He lived by the motto; be strong, be accountable, and never complain. This showed through out his entire life because he never asked somebody to do a task he wouldn't do. Overall Brothers Forever is a great book that anyone would like and enjoy reading.
August 5, 2020
A story about the relationship between a United States Marine and a United States Navy SEAL and the courage, friendship, love, and loyalty that they expressed to one another, their country, and the innocent people of other nations.
I’ve participated in the 9/11 Heroes Run for the past 3 years, which I discovered through a friend. I recently picked up this book because I wanted to learn more about the name behind the Travis Manion Foundation. I don’t think a book has ever hit me the way that this book has. It is a must read for any American.
Travis Manion and Brendan Looney are but a few of the many that have offered true selflessness for our freedom. The sacrifices that these volunteers - as well as their families - make to serve and protect are truly unfathomable.
If myself and others could use these heroes as role models we could offer so much to ourselves and one another.
I’ve participated in the 9/11 Heroes Run for the past 3 years, which I discovered through a friend. I recently picked up this book because I wanted to learn more about the name behind the Travis Manion Foundation. I don’t think a book has ever hit me the way that this book has. It is a must read for any American.
Travis Manion and Brendan Looney are but a few of the many that have offered true selflessness for our freedom. The sacrifices that these volunteers - as well as their families - make to serve and protect are truly unfathomable.
If myself and others could use these heroes as role models we could offer so much to ourselves and one another.
August 2, 2014
An excellent account of the sacrifices involved in (1) making it through a service academy, (2) serving as a combat leader, and (3) the stresses borne by military families. However, as both of the book's subjects died in combat, the writer is left with primarily emails and letters written to family and friends by young men who, let's face it, do not constitutionally bend towards introspection but rather action. In short, the end result is myopic. Also, the fact that the father of the slain Marine is co-author, does naturally grant the lion's share of coverage to Lt. Manion. Still, it's greatest value is to inform the 99% who don't serve in arms what a gulf exists between us and the 1% who do.
July 1, 2015
Although the dates & sequence of events was a bit hard to follow, I enjoyed the book. I do wish that we could have learned more about these 2 extraordinary fellows when they were younger; I would have liked to know how their work ethic & passion for their country became ingrained in each of them.
More than their friendship , their passion for their country is astounding. They truly exemplified how freedom is not free. The training, hard work & sacrifice they went thru should be a wake-up call to all of us as to it takes to defend this country. They truly are 2 inspirational gentlemen who should be commended for their service and their sacrifice; may their deaths never be in vain!!
More than their friendship , their passion for their country is astounding. They truly exemplified how freedom is not free. The training, hard work & sacrifice they went thru should be a wake-up call to all of us as to it takes to defend this country. They truly are 2 inspirational gentlemen who should be commended for their service and their sacrifice; may their deaths never be in vain!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews