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Книга про патріотизм і відданість, про самопожертву й ризик, про боротьбу за справедливість і можливість стати на захист країни навіть тоді, коли ти — всього лише тендітна жінка…
Військова драма, заснована на мемуарах майора військово-повітряних сил США Мері Дженнінґз Геґар, яка відпрацювала три відрядження до зони бойових дій в Афганістані. Вона була пілотом пошуково-рятувального вертольоту і під обстрілами Талібану вивозила з поля бою поранених солдатів. Навіть коли рятувальний вертоліт був збитий противниками, Мері не втратила рівноваги й мужності, натомість продовжила рятівну операцію та змогла вивести три групи військових із оточення… Тендітній жінці вдалося врятувати більше 100 життів… Захоплива історія, насичена мужністю, відданістю і добрим гумором.
Військова драма, заснована на мемуарах майора військово-повітряних сил США Мері Дженнінґз Геґар, яка відпрацювала три відрядження до зони бойових дій в Афганістані. Вона була пілотом пошуково-рятувального вертольоту і під обстрілами Талібану вивозила з поля бою поранених солдатів. Навіть коли рятувальний вертоліт був збитий противниками, Мері не втратила рівноваги й мужності, натомість продовжила рятівну операцію та змогла вивести три групи військових із оточення… Тендітній жінці вдалося врятувати більше 100 життів… Захоплива історія, насичена мужністю, відданістю і добрим гумором.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published March 7, 2017
252 people are currently reading
4174 people want to read
About the author
Mary Jennings Hegar
3 books35 followersMajor Mary Jennings Hegar, one of Foreign Policy Magazine's 100 Leading Global Thinkers of 2013 and one of Newsweek's 125 Women of Impact of 2012, was commissioned into the Air Force through ROTC at the University of Texas in 1999. In 2004, she was selected for pilot training by the Air National Guard. Upon completion of her training at the top of her class, she served three tours in Afghanistan flying Combat Search and Rescue as well as medevac missions. On her third tour to Afghanistan on July 29, 2009, she was shot down on a medevac mission and sustained wounds resulting in her being awarded the Purple Heart. Her actions on this mission saved the lives of her crew and patients, earning her the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor Device. Today, MJ lives in Austin with her family. She continues to advocate for marginalized communities as well as write and speak publicly about both her experiences in the military and her fight for increased military readiness through equality.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 451 reviews
May 21, 2017
This is the memoir of Air Force Major Mary Jennings Hegar. She was a rescue helicopter pilot. She had successfully rescued hundreds of men and women off the battlefield. Hegar had served three tours in Afghanistan. The author briefly covers her time in high school and ROTC in college. Most of the book is about her time in military service.
Hegar tells of being shot down during a rescue mission. She was also shot by the Taliban. She fought through her injuries to save the three Americans that were the target of the rescue mission and her own team. Their ordeal culminated in a daring escape hanging onto the skids of a Kiowa helicopter. Major Hegar was awarded the Purple Heart. She was the sixth women to receive The Distinguished Flying Cross and only the second women ever to receive it with the Valor Device.
As exciting and interesting the combat part of the book was, the real story happened when she returned to the States. Hegar had to fight the military for access to combat related Veterans Services. After she stopped flying, she was refused a job she applied for in the Air National Guard. The reason for refusal was she was a woman; otherwise, she was qualified for the job. She had to sue the Secretary of Defense that the Combat Exclusion Policy was unconstitutional after all she had spent three tours in combat in Afghanistan even if the military ignored it. She won the case. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta removed gender discrimination from the military. Any position depends on meeting the qualifications for the job; and, if qualified, cannot be refused based on gender, race or religion.
The book is well written and is easy to read. There is a little violence and some foul language, but a teenager could read the book with no difficulty. The author does go into the sexual discrimination/harassment she had to endure during her flight training and during her service years. I believe I read that a movie is being made from the book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is almost eight and a half hours long. Cynthia Farrell does a good job narrating the book. Farrell is an actress and audiobook narrator.
Hegar tells of being shot down during a rescue mission. She was also shot by the Taliban. She fought through her injuries to save the three Americans that were the target of the rescue mission and her own team. Their ordeal culminated in a daring escape hanging onto the skids of a Kiowa helicopter. Major Hegar was awarded the Purple Heart. She was the sixth women to receive The Distinguished Flying Cross and only the second women ever to receive it with the Valor Device.
As exciting and interesting the combat part of the book was, the real story happened when she returned to the States. Hegar had to fight the military for access to combat related Veterans Services. After she stopped flying, she was refused a job she applied for in the Air National Guard. The reason for refusal was she was a woman; otherwise, she was qualified for the job. She had to sue the Secretary of Defense that the Combat Exclusion Policy was unconstitutional after all she had spent three tours in combat in Afghanistan even if the military ignored it. She won the case. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta removed gender discrimination from the military. Any position depends on meeting the qualifications for the job; and, if qualified, cannot be refused based on gender, race or religion.
The book is well written and is easy to read. There is a little violence and some foul language, but a teenager could read the book with no difficulty. The author does go into the sexual discrimination/harassment she had to endure during her flight training and during her service years. I believe I read that a movie is being made from the book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is almost eight and a half hours long. Cynthia Farrell does a good job narrating the book. Farrell is an actress and audiobook narrator.
March 12, 2017
This book was incredible. Hagar captivated me instantly with her wit and charm to her steadfast beliefs in warrior spirits and valor.
Hagar details raw moments like her sexual assault by an army physician, and a helicopter shoot down on a medical mission. There is no doubt that she's a combat veteran and fierce soldier as you read each detailed page. As she grips the helicopter and shoots at insurgents, as she gives her ammo to those more in need, as she spends her retirement fighting for the equality of other female soldiers...Hagar is a quiet yet dominant hero.
I loved her voice and her lessons about not just gender equality, but true equality, and how in the end, our character is what matters.
Plus, if you adore memoirs by soldiers, this is one of the best I've read.
Hagar details raw moments like her sexual assault by an army physician, and a helicopter shoot down on a medical mission. There is no doubt that she's a combat veteran and fierce soldier as you read each detailed page. As she grips the helicopter and shoots at insurgents, as she gives her ammo to those more in need, as she spends her retirement fighting for the equality of other female soldiers...Hagar is a quiet yet dominant hero.
I loved her voice and her lessons about not just gender equality, but true equality, and how in the end, our character is what matters.
Plus, if you adore memoirs by soldiers, this is one of the best I've read.
January 6, 2018
SHOOT LIKE A GIRL
One Woman’s Dramatic Fight in Afghanistan and on the Homefront
Mary Jennings Hegar
MY RATING ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
PUBLISHER Penguin Berkley/Recorded Books
PUBLISHED March 7, 2017
A dramatic true story of one woman’s brave and selfless fight to serve her country and to improve opportunities for those women following in her footsteps.
SUMMARY
In 2009, Air National Guard Major Mary Jennings “MJ” Hegar was shot down by the Taliban while on a medevac mission on her third tour in Afghanistan. Despite being wounded in the arm and leg, she fought off the enemy and save the lives of her crew and their three patients.
Hegar had dreamed of being a pilot for most of her life, and was lucky enough to have an encouraging stepfather. After she was commissioned in the U.S. Air Force, Hegar was selected for pilot training by the Air National Guard, where she finished at the top of her class. She served three tours in Afghanistan flying hundreds of combat search and rescue missions culminating in the harrowing rescue that would earn Hegar the Purple Heart as well as the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor. But on the home-front, Hegar would fight a great challenge as well. She sought to eliminate the Department of Defense Ground Combat Exclusion Policy, which kept women from serving in combat roles, despite their long standing record of doing so with honor. A lawsuit was filed by the ACLU with Hegar as a plaintiff arguing the unconstitutionality of the exclusion. That ban was lifted by then Secretary of Defense Leon Panneta and the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 2012.
REVIEW
Hold on tight for this gripping and enlightening biography. MJ Hegar followed her heart, and has done an astounding job at telling her story of her experiences. Her integrity and perseverance was front and center in her service to our country despite the many hurdles (discrimination) she had to overcome. She shares about her fight with the Taliban, the military and even the Pentagon. Her writing is engaging, and her rescue stories are breathtaking. Most importantly, is that the culmination of all of her experiences has lead her to a new mission where she has opened up opportunities for other women who choose to serve on the military. A true bluestocking woman! Thank you MJ Hegar for your service to this country and especially for making a difference for future generations of women.
“This is what I was made for. I felt it in my gut. In the last hour, I’d been shot by the Taliban, had my aircraft riddled with bullets, and landed hard in enemy territory. ‘I can do this. I am not scared.’ At that moment I wouldn’t have switched spots with anyone in the world, because I knew I was the best person for the job.”
-Mary Jennings Hegar
Shoot Like A Girl
One Woman’s Dramatic Fight in Afghanistan and on the Homefront
Mary Jennings Hegar
MY RATING ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
PUBLISHER Penguin Berkley/Recorded Books
PUBLISHED March 7, 2017
A dramatic true story of one woman’s brave and selfless fight to serve her country and to improve opportunities for those women following in her footsteps.
SUMMARY
In 2009, Air National Guard Major Mary Jennings “MJ” Hegar was shot down by the Taliban while on a medevac mission on her third tour in Afghanistan. Despite being wounded in the arm and leg, she fought off the enemy and save the lives of her crew and their three patients.
Hegar had dreamed of being a pilot for most of her life, and was lucky enough to have an encouraging stepfather. After she was commissioned in the U.S. Air Force, Hegar was selected for pilot training by the Air National Guard, where she finished at the top of her class. She served three tours in Afghanistan flying hundreds of combat search and rescue missions culminating in the harrowing rescue that would earn Hegar the Purple Heart as well as the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor. But on the home-front, Hegar would fight a great challenge as well. She sought to eliminate the Department of Defense Ground Combat Exclusion Policy, which kept women from serving in combat roles, despite their long standing record of doing so with honor. A lawsuit was filed by the ACLU with Hegar as a plaintiff arguing the unconstitutionality of the exclusion. That ban was lifted by then Secretary of Defense Leon Panneta and the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 2012.
REVIEW
Hold on tight for this gripping and enlightening biography. MJ Hegar followed her heart, and has done an astounding job at telling her story of her experiences. Her integrity and perseverance was front and center in her service to our country despite the many hurdles (discrimination) she had to overcome. She shares about her fight with the Taliban, the military and even the Pentagon. Her writing is engaging, and her rescue stories are breathtaking. Most importantly, is that the culmination of all of her experiences has lead her to a new mission where she has opened up opportunities for other women who choose to serve on the military. A true bluestocking woman! Thank you MJ Hegar for your service to this country and especially for making a difference for future generations of women.
“This is what I was made for. I felt it in my gut. In the last hour, I’d been shot by the Taliban, had my aircraft riddled with bullets, and landed hard in enemy territory. ‘I can do this. I am not scared.’ At that moment I wouldn’t have switched spots with anyone in the world, because I knew I was the best person for the job.”
-Mary Jennings Hegar
Shoot Like A Girl
May 13, 2023
4,5/5 🌟
Дуже цікаво написана книга!
«- Ой, та мова ж не про тебе, Ем-Джей! Ти крута… - пробурмотів він, затинаючись.
Я повернулася до відсіку. У мене не було часу міркувати над словами Ті-Джея щодо начебто моєї винятковості. Він не міг усвідомити, що жінки в одностроях мають такі ж здібності, як і чоловіки.»
«Попри залиту кров’ю руку, я готова битися далі. Готовність битися залежить не від статі, а від характеру конкретної особи.»
«Повернутися до родини після війни й зануритися в повсякденне банальне життя (сплата рахунків, заповнення форм на повернення податків) часом досить складно.
Комусь після повернення додому буває тяжко дізнатися, що без нього нічого не змінилося. Діти грали в спортивні ігри, ходили до школи, знайомилися з новими друзями. Подружжя заправляли автівки, їхали по харчі, базікали по телефону, тим часом як ми обмінювалися пострілами з навченим, цілеспрямованим ворогом і рятували молодих чоловіків та жінок без рук чи ніг, які спливали кров’ю в задній частині нашого вертольота.
У цьому ніхто не винен, але знову стати частиною монотонного світу якось навіть нереально. Треба поринути глибоко в себе й клацнути перемикачем режиму виживання.»
«У всіх нас були проблеми, просто ми по-різному з ними боролися. Коли я бачу звіти, де стверджують, буцім посттравматичний синдром у жінок трапляється частіше, ніж у чоловіків, у мене немає жодного сумніву: ці дані необ’єктивні, бо ми скоріше визнаємо, що нам потрібна допомога. І хіба це не позитивна риса?»
«Але є чимало причин, з яких на передовій мають бути жінки. І це найважливіше. Вони найкраще можуть виконувати конкретну роботу. Наприклад, бути головним снайпером підрозділу, проводити огляд відвідувачок на нарадах з воєначальниками тощо. Отже, жінки на передовій украй потрібні, і командирам постійно доводиться шукати способів, щоб їх туди привезти.»
«Жінки вже беруть участь у військових діях, дозволено їм це чи ні. І поводяться дуже хоробро. Але вони й досі не їздять на навчання з братами по зброї, сумніваються у власній здатності виконувати ту ж роботу, що й їхні товариші по службі чоловічої статі, не обіймають високих посад, пов’язаних із наглядом за бойовими операціями, і належно не пошановані, як ветерани війни, після повернення додому (навіть ті, що в складі Ради ветеранів війни).»
«Не кожен чоловік має військові навички й бойовий дух. І, звичайно ж, не кожна жінка. Але всі, хто має такі навички, повинні йти за своїм покликанням.»
Дуже цікаво написана книга!
«- Ой, та мова ж не про тебе, Ем-Джей! Ти крута… - пробурмотів він, затинаючись.
Я повернулася до відсіку. У мене не було часу міркувати над словами Ті-Джея щодо начебто моєї винятковості. Він не міг усвідомити, що жінки в одностроях мають такі ж здібності, як і чоловіки.»
«Попри залиту кров’ю руку, я готова битися далі. Готовність битися залежить не від статі, а від характеру конкретної особи.»
«Повернутися до родини після війни й зануритися в повсякденне банальне життя (сплата рахунків, заповнення форм на повернення податків) часом досить складно.
Комусь після повернення додому буває тяжко дізнатися, що без нього нічого не змінилося. Діти грали в спортивні ігри, ходили до школи, знайомилися з новими друзями. Подружжя заправляли автівки, їхали по харчі, базікали по телефону, тим часом як ми обмінювалися пострілами з навченим, цілеспрямованим ворогом і рятували молодих чоловіків та жінок без рук чи ніг, які спливали кров’ю в задній частині нашого вертольота.
У цьому ніхто не винен, але знову стати частиною монотонного світу якось навіть нереально. Треба поринути глибоко в себе й клацнути перемикачем режиму виживання.»
«У всіх нас були проблеми, просто ми по-різному з ними боролися. Коли я бачу звіти, де стверджують, буцім посттравматичний синдром у жінок трапляється частіше, ніж у чоловіків, у мене немає жодного сумніву: ці дані необ’єктивні, бо ми скоріше визнаємо, що нам потрібна допомога. І хіба це не позитивна риса?»
«Але є чимало причин, з яких на передовій мають бути жінки. І це найважливіше. Вони найкраще можуть виконувати конкретну роботу. Наприклад, бути головним снайпером підрозділу, проводити огляд відвідувачок на нарадах з воєначальниками тощо. Отже, жінки на передовій украй потрібні, і командирам постійно доводиться шукати способів, щоб їх туди привезти.»
«Жінки вже беруть участь у військових діях, дозволено їм це чи ні. І поводяться дуже хоробро. Але вони й досі не їздять на навчання з братами по зброї, сумніваються у власній здатності виконувати ту ж роботу, що й їхні товариші по службі чоловічої статі, не обіймають високих посад, пов’язаних із наглядом за бойовими операціями, і належно не пошановані, як ветерани війни, після повернення додому (навіть ті, що в складі Ради ветеранів війни).»
«Не кожен чоловік має військові навички й бойовий дух. І, звичайно ж, не кожна жінка. Але всі, хто має такі навички, повинні йти за своїм покликанням.»
February 22, 2017
Whoa, the sexism Captain Hegar faced in the 21st century was terrible. A talented helicopter pilot, dedicated to saving lives, willing to take a bullet to protect her crew, and always running into people who told her women shouldn't be doing what she was doing. One flight instructor flunked her flights every time, while the others always passed them. When an officer asked him why, the instructor said she should be home taking care of a husband and kids. Wow! She was saving the lives of injured soldiers in Afghanistan and was told she should be taking care of a husband. I guess the injured soldiers didn't matter as much as the other guy's backwards ideas.
There is a harrowing scene where Captain Hegar is shot by the Taliban but continues picking up wounded soldiers, even while her helicopter is raked by machine gun fire.
The book is not too grisly, so if you want to show this to an older child who questions whether she can really be anything she wants, it's okay. War scenes and a tiny bit of sex, but nothing very graphic.
I won this as a goodreads giveaway, for which I am grateful.
There is a harrowing scene where Captain Hegar is shot by the Taliban but continues picking up wounded soldiers, even while her helicopter is raked by machine gun fire.
The book is not too grisly, so if you want to show this to an older child who questions whether she can really be anything she wants, it's okay. War scenes and a tiny bit of sex, but nothing very graphic.
I won this as a goodreads giveaway, for which I am grateful.
March 28, 2017
This is a very well written book, the author has a determination beyond most people and overcame all kinds of adversity in a mostly male dominate field to reach her dreams and do a lot of great things for our country. There are times when reading this book you become totally immersed in the moment and feel as you are right there in action. A must read book for everyone. Mary will make you understand you have the grit to overcome things in your life too. A great read from a great American hero! Would tell more but it needs to be experienced by the reader, you won't be disappointed!
June 26, 2017
With the cliches, already! Hegar also has a rather self-serving view of feminism and I did not appreciate her belittling a few other women serving in the military. She also throws around words like "trust," then claims not to trust anyone, especially men. Lacking in nuance. This book brought out the snotty editor in me.
June 19, 2017
This is MJ's story from her own voice. She's over the top enthusiastic and an adrenaline junkie. But she also cries buckets at times. Intense highs and ferocious lows.
But I hear the response here- "hey, that isn't fair". Yet it is true and because I do know she is quite a hero, that also makes her a natural for the work. Not only for her war flights and Taliban attack wounds events, but also with her honest and continuing attitude. Which encourages presently with petitioning legally within all the current organizational levels to get women into combat. Officially.
I'm not sure I agree with her on specific points at all, but I do know she knows what she likes and what paths she traipsed to get her Medvac pilot career. And that discrimination against women in the military (especially upon the personal sexual assault reality) continues to exist.
The writing had lacks and enough foul language that she could be a sailor. After dialogue response of expletive after expletive! It all sounds so dumb. But that's how they talk?
Well, I for one, found that the terrible incident of being knocked out of air space and being lost with nearly no fuel remaining because of the Texas A&M game glitch while she was just learning and didn't even know the navigation equipment or maps yet at ALL- that was just as brave as the others for the 3 tours in Afghanistan. Many would not have continued. Often I wonder when I hear about celebs or politicos calling off for "spaces" when highways, tollways, airports or spaces adjacent get "shut down" what fall outs actually do occur for the rest of us. MANY! And not all of them are safe nor easy alternatives.
MJ is certainly herself. And she has at a very young age, all the scars and redone joints to prove it. It's part of the process for those who love the adrenaline rush mode of living and push the physical. Never old bones intact.
The photos were 4 star and her story is worth the read. Hard row to hoe and I hope her future includes some measure of contentment.
But I hear the response here- "hey, that isn't fair". Yet it is true and because I do know she is quite a hero, that also makes her a natural for the work. Not only for her war flights and Taliban attack wounds events, but also with her honest and continuing attitude. Which encourages presently with petitioning legally within all the current organizational levels to get women into combat. Officially.
I'm not sure I agree with her on specific points at all, but I do know she knows what she likes and what paths she traipsed to get her Medvac pilot career. And that discrimination against women in the military (especially upon the personal sexual assault reality) continues to exist.
The writing had lacks and enough foul language that she could be a sailor. After dialogue response of expletive after expletive! It all sounds so dumb. But that's how they talk?
Well, I for one, found that the terrible incident of being knocked out of air space and being lost with nearly no fuel remaining because of the Texas A&M game glitch while she was just learning and didn't even know the navigation equipment or maps yet at ALL- that was just as brave as the others for the 3 tours in Afghanistan. Many would not have continued. Often I wonder when I hear about celebs or politicos calling off for "spaces" when highways, tollways, airports or spaces adjacent get "shut down" what fall outs actually do occur for the rest of us. MANY! And not all of them are safe nor easy alternatives.
MJ is certainly herself. And she has at a very young age, all the scars and redone joints to prove it. It's part of the process for those who love the adrenaline rush mode of living and push the physical. Never old bones intact.
The photos were 4 star and her story is worth the read. Hard row to hoe and I hope her future includes some measure of contentment.
April 16, 2020
Маю велику книжкову слабкість - мене не те, що магнітом тягне до книжок про видатні досягнення/ персональні історії геройств/ відчайдушні спроби вживатись і виживати в найважчих умовах, мене просто розриває, коли я беру щось подібне до рук, так хочеться вже проковтнути (і не подавитись), а отримати щось дійсно цінне з пережитого і побаченого розповідачем. Особливо, якщо це ще й стосується військової справи (мабуть тут спрацьовує моє альтер его впорядкованості і чіткості). І так буває не по собі, коли ви з автором знаходитесь на різних темпах сприйняття: коли вона лише розкачується і вводить в хід історії, тобі невтерпки вже розігнатись до н-кількості кінних сил, а коли вона раптово набирає обертів, ти лише починаєш сповільнювати хід і смакувати деталі. Певно, із-за цих невідповідностей загальне враження стає наче в ситуації, коли ти довго налаштовуєшся на кадр, а тебе фотографують в останній момент, коли все виходить розмитим і химерним (звісно, може бути перевагою для модерністських жанрів, але сюди трохи не пасує). Отже, історія повільно тягнеться від мрій маленької дівчинки стати льотчицею через пласт несприйняття жінок в армії і всі перепони на шляху до отримання цього звання і закінчується мега швидким фіналом на зразок тих, де головна героїня розриває шаблони і позивається до найавторитетніших військових структур в країні за розширення жіночих прав у війську. Та навіть не закінчується, а обривається (бо реальна історія льотчиці продовжується в політичній сфері). І, тому, складається таке враження, ніби авторка дописала до середини, а потім їй набридло і вона через себе писала останні розділи, а власне кінець взагалі вирішила стиснути в військовий рюкзак, де по дорозі потрібно залишати тільки базові речі, а все інше просто викидати заради виживання. Можливо, я невиправдано прискіплива, але якщо вже лінія з прикладами мужності/захисту Батьківщини як найвищої цінності/внутрішніми стимулами довести собі свою спроможність і здатність робити великі речі є провідною, то не варто сходити до мікро історій другого плану, які скоріш залишають невеликі плямки на тексті, ніж доповнюють його цілість і завершеність, стаючи потужними прожекторами, а не яскравими зірочками.
August 10, 2020
На жаль, обіцянка на обкладинці, що це буде військова драма, не справдилася. Це автобіографія. І ось тут починається клопіт. Загалом, солдатські мемуари при першому знайомстві видаються доволі нудними. Звісно, це результат очікувань, що війна - суцільні перестрілки і "екшн". Але після читання мемуарів часів Другої світової війни розумієш, що рутина становить велетенську частину життя солдата. Це марші, передислокації, чекання тощо. Чи це нудно? Це опис життя. Якщо спробувати описати своє життя, воно також не буде суцільним "екшном". Тому солдатські мемуари - особливий жанр, до якого відповідно і треба ставитися. Не очікувати літературних "витребеньок" як закручений сюжет. Ні, в мемуарах цікаві деталі, які дозволяють зрозуміти автора чи авторку. Деколи є і неймовірної краси чи сили описи. Але це радше приємні бонуси. Ключове - можливість побачити ситуацію "зсередини".
Навіщо такий довгий вступ? Та ще й про мемуари? Через те, що книга Ем-Джей - це не мемуари. Точніше, в них матеріал - як з мемуарів. Але стиль - як з мотиваційний книжок "допоможи-собі-сам". І ось це текст остаточно підкошує. Тому що в мемуарах потрібно просто описати, що відбувалося. Можна з датами, місцями і прізвищами, а можна просто як "байку при вогнищі" (чи в барі) - без зайвих деталей, але про ситуації. Втім, це має бути просто "бувальщина": був (була) там, пережив (пережила) таке.
Але авторка вирішує з цього робити висновки і давати уроки молодим поколінням. І це просто жахіття. Адже - як і в будь-якої людини - в житті Ем-Джей було багато проколів, помилок, дурних рішень. Всі помиляються. Ще древні римляни мали про це приказку, врешті-решт. Але як зі своєї біографії зробити "мотивашку" за таких умов? Або викидати деякі епізоди події, або... Авторка пішла другим шляхом: вона розказує всі свої помилки, а далі робить з них висновки і вчить життю. І ось краще вона б цього не робила.
По-перше, вона хотіла стати льотчицею. І витратила на це років 20 свого життя, а потім зрозуміла, що... не хоче бути льотчицею. І ще й має ПТСР. І розбите наніц коліно. І ушкоджену спину. Тому до біса ту авіацію. Що ж... Непогана мотивація: втрать 20 років життя, щоб зрозуміти, що тобі це все остогидло.
По-друге, основне правило Ем-Джей - "якщо бачиш граблі - сміливо наступай на них!". Травма коліна в неї - результат бравади. А далі двічі вона розбивала те саме коліно через те, що... Та знову через браваду. "Я смілива, я сильна, я всім покажу!" Хрусь, і колінна чашечка зміщена на 5 см. І кілька місяців реабілітації. А травма спини... Та через те саме.
По-третє, подвійні стандарти. Авторка каже: "Сміливо йдіть до мети і долайте всі перешкоди!". І... Сама ж кілька разів відступає, бо... Різні обставини. І ось тут виникає суперечність: або-або! Або мотивуй йти до мети, але тоді не відступай, або... Або не мотивуй. Якраз останнє цілком можна зрозуміти. Все ж, ми в реальному житті, а не в мотиваційній книзі.
Але що в книзі цінного. Це можливість зазирнути в свідомість професійних військових. Тому ще раз повторюся: якби не "мотиваційна" частина, це були б цікаві мемуари. Спосіб мислення військових - просто на долоні.
Чого не варто чекати: опису бойових дій. Це не книга про службу в Афганістані. Від сили 1/5 книги про польоти там, причому лише в 1/10 польоти "гарячі". В решті випадків - нічим не відрізняються від звичайних рятувальних польотів. Анотація дещо лукавить, коли ось так з порога згадує про бойові вильоти авторки.
П.С. Деякі речі збентежили. Але якби не Ми були солдатами… і молодими: Я-Дранґ — битва, що змінила війну у В’єтнамі, то я б не дуже зрозумів, який клопіт з вертольотами в зоні бойових дій.
А от радісні нотатки, що медична служба у В'єтнамі героїчно евакуйовувала поранених. Що ж, у "Ми були солдатами... і молодими" медична служба просто не сідала в зоні бойових дій. Поранених вивозили воєнні вертольоти. Можливо, після 1965 р. ситуація змінилася. Але я відчув деяку суперечність. Невже, це армійська міфологія так змінила все?
Навіщо такий довгий вступ? Та ще й про мемуари? Через те, що книга Ем-Джей - це не мемуари. Точніше, в них матеріал - як з мемуарів. Але стиль - як з мотиваційний книжок "допоможи-собі-сам". І ось це текст остаточно підкошує. Тому що в мемуарах потрібно просто описати, що відбувалося. Можна з датами, місцями і прізвищами, а можна просто як "байку при вогнищі" (чи в барі) - без зайвих деталей, але про ситуації. Втім, це має бути просто "бувальщина": був (була) там, пережив (пережила) таке.
Але авторка вирішує з цього робити висновки і давати уроки молодим поколінням. І це просто жахіття. Адже - як і в будь-якої людини - в житті Ем-Джей було багато проколів, помилок, дурних рішень. Всі помиляються. Ще древні римляни мали про це приказку, врешті-решт. Але як зі своєї біографії зробити "мотивашку" за таких умов? Або викидати деякі епізоди події, або... Авторка пішла другим шляхом: вона розказує всі свої помилки, а далі робить з них висновки і вчить життю. І ось краще вона б цього не робила.
По-перше, вона хотіла стати льотчицею. І витратила на це років 20 свого життя, а потім зрозуміла, що... не хоче бути льотчицею. І ще й має ПТСР. І розбите наніц коліно. І ушкоджену спину. Тому до біса ту авіацію. Що ж... Непогана мотивація: втрать 20 років життя, щоб зрозуміти, що тобі це все остогидло.
По-друге, основне правило Ем-Джей - "якщо бачиш граблі - сміливо наступай на них!". Травма коліна в неї - результат бравади. А далі двічі вона розбивала те саме коліно через те, що... Та знову через браваду. "Я смілива, я сильна, я всім покажу!" Хрусь, і колінна чашечка зміщена на 5 см. І кілька місяців реабілітації. А травма спини... Та через те саме.
По-третє, подвійні стандарти. Авторка каже: "Сміливо йдіть до мети і долайте всі перешкоди!". І... Сама ж кілька разів відступає, бо... Різні обставини. І ось тут виникає суперечність: або-або! Або мотивуй йти до мети, але тоді не відступай, або... Або не мотивуй. Якраз останнє цілком можна зрозуміти. Все ж, ми в реальному житті, а не в мотиваційній книзі.
Але що в книзі цінного. Це можливість зазирнути в свідомість професійних військових. Тому ще раз повторюся: якби не "мотиваційна" частина, це були б цікаві мемуари. Спосіб мислення військових - просто на долоні.
Чого не варто чекати: опису бойових дій. Це не книга про службу в Афганістані. Від сили 1/5 книги про польоти там, причому лише в 1/10 польоти "гарячі". В решті випадків - нічим не відрізняються від звичайних рятувальних польотів. Анотація дещо лукавить, коли ось так з порога згадує про бойові вильоти авторки.
П.С. Деякі речі збентежили. Але якби не Ми були солдатами… і молодими: Я-Дранґ — битва, що змінила війну у В’єтнамі, то я б не дуже зрозумів, який клопіт з вертольотами в зоні бойових дій.
А от радісні нотатки, що медична служба у В'єтнамі героїчно евакуйовувала поранених. Що ж, у "Ми були солдатами... і молодими" медична служба просто не сідала в зоні бойових дій. Поранених вивозили воєнні вертольоти. Можливо, після 1965 р. ситуація змінилася. Але я відчув деяку суперечність. Невже, це армійська міфологія так змінила все?
April 26, 2017
I heard MJ Hegar interviewed on NPR and immediately decided to pick up her book. Her experiences becoming a pilot and serving in the Air National Guard are eye-opening, exhilarating, and at times disturbing. One would think the blatant sexism she experienced was something of the past, but the culture allowed in our armed services makes it not only tolerated, but at times rewarded. I don't want to give too much away, but MJ becomes a perfect plaintiff when the ACLU decides to bring a lawsuit agains the Department of Defense so that women in the armed services are allowed the same jobs (which they were already doing but not getting credit for) as men.
Although the informal writing makes this memoir very accessible, at times the run-on sentences and simple grammar mistakes can become a distraction. I wish the editor would've done a bit more tweaking...it wouldn't have interfered with MJ's voice, but would've helped get rid of poor writing that distracted at times from this amazing story.
Although the informal writing makes this memoir very accessible, at times the run-on sentences and simple grammar mistakes can become a distraction. I wish the editor would've done a bit more tweaking...it wouldn't have interfered with MJ's voice, but would've helped get rid of poor writing that distracted at times from this amazing story.
May 17, 2017
This true story ranks with any of the best thriller fiction as Mary Jennings Hegar describes her career as an Air Force Rescue pilot. Her experiences of course include setbacks and resistance from those who doubt she could or should do the job, but also tremendous, and patriotic, camaraderie with her fellow soldiers and pilots, as well as fully-described battle action. The climactic scene at the end is not to be missed.
The final chapter explaining Hegar's push to open combat jobs to women--because women were de facto already doing the jobs but without the full status and integration process necessary for teamwork safety--is also of interest.
This is a perfect, fitting read for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July as we learn more about how women like Hegar and men like her colleagues defend our country.
The final chapter explaining Hegar's push to open combat jobs to women--because women were de facto already doing the jobs but without the full status and integration process necessary for teamwork safety--is also of interest.
This is a perfect, fitting read for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July as we learn more about how women like Hegar and men like her colleagues defend our country.
July 18, 2018
Shoot Like a Girl is Mary Jennings Hegar's (or MJ's) memoir about her time training for, enlisting in, and serving with the United States Air Force. As a female attempting to get into the US military, her experiences were far more grueling because of her gender, and as a result she had to overcome a lot of adversity, challenging the norms long-held by American and military culture. Her story was a great one, for sure, but her book squandered a lot of this potential and ultimately felt lacking.
So as not to begin this review on a negative note, I want to praise one particular section of this book as being one of the highlights of my reading. MJ recounts her most harrowing experience as a pilot while serving in Afghanistan, when a mission went south during a heated firefight and she took direct enemy fire from the Taliban. This highly intense and stressful event would have been enough to shake even the toughest male soldiers in the military, but MJ remained determined, focused, and valiant when it came to accomplishing her mission and backing up her fellow troops. In that moment, she proved to herself and to the rest of her chain of command that she was entirely capable of serving in a combat role with as much success as any male soldier, making her statement clear that women are just as well-off serving their country as any man is. Mary Jennings Hegar is living proof that women can, and should, be entrusted with important military roles, and that any cause seeking to elevate women in the military is a worthy endeavor for both our country as well as the women who wish to serve it. This section provided both a riveting war story that outlined the heroism of our troops while simultaneously demonstrating the absurdity of gender discrimination in our military. Definitely one of the best parts of the entire book.
Now for my more critical opinions, and there are a few.
My greatest complaint about Shoot Like a Girl is how it primarily focused on aspects of the author's life that were not particularly relevant or necessary to the story she claimed to be telling. This book advertises itself as being the story of one woman's struggle to be accepted into the male-dominated military, documenting her fight to change its sexist culture to more openly allow women to serve. Now that sounds like a great memoir to get behind, but you won't find much of that in Shoot Like a Girl. Unfortunately, MJ used most of her time talking about the rigors of training, the logistics of military work, and other such technical matters that pertained to the military and piloting air vehicles. Now, I consider myself to be a fervent supporter of the military and our service men and women, and I don't want to demean the importance of their hard work, but I did not pick this book up to learn about how things operated in the military. I got this book expecting to read a harrowing tale of one woman's brave stance against the tyranny of sexism; I wanted an account that detailed the actions MJ took to allow other women to serve in combat roles, the hardships she endured fighting for such a controversial cause, and all the related feelings and exciting moments that would have naturally followed in her noble pursuits. But like I said, these moments were seemingly absent most of the time, having been usurped by other, frankly unimportant details about MJ's service and the routines associated with serving. The only real mention we get of her activism is in the last two chapters, and even then she only barely scratches the surface of her work towards equality in the military. She very briefly mentioned things like coming across lawmakers and veterans who opposed her cause and challenged her views, and tough moments where she was interviewed on TV regarding her positions and thoughts on women's military rights. Rather than going in-depth about these moments in her fight for equality, she just glossed over them as if they were virtually insignificant to her story...but those were the type of stories I came here to read! I understand that the ins-and-outs of getting into the military and piloting were important for context, but taking up a vast majority of the novel for these matters did no favors for her memoir on gender equality. I felt like the book was just getting started right as it ended, and I was sorely disappointed by how everything panned out.
When MJ did talk about the discrimination she faced as a female pilot in the military, these sections proved to be the most engrossing parts in the entire book. Sadly, these parts were quite infrequent compared to the litany of stories we got on military procedure. She undoubtedly suffered a great deal of discrimination and put up with a lot of misogyny from both the people within the military as well as in her personal life. I felt truly bad for what she had to endure for having committed the apparently unforgivable offense that was being born a female, therefore apparently making her “unfit" for the job according to many highly ignorant and intolerant people. This discrimination was so extreme at times that I found myself being physically disgusted at what I had just read; quite dumbfounded was I at how such a level of depravity could go unpunished and unchanged for so long in our own military. (That is not necessarily an affront to the serving members of the military as a whole, but rather towards its administrators and higher-ups – those who clearly have knowledge about these crimes and still choose not to act justly against them.) MJ is truly an inspirational public figure and heroic veteran whose story is sure to resonate with aspiring female soldiers all across this country, but I'm still wondering why this book wasn't primarily comprised of these fascinating stories and anecdotes.
I also thought it was a strange decision on the author's part to omit any mention of her military accolades and awards in greater detail since it would have added yet another layer of depth to her story about female capability in the military. I wanted to learn how well (or poorly) she was received when she was given her awards, or what it felt like being one of the few women in the military to receive such high honors when they have been historically awarded predominantly to men. I was hoping that, since she focused so much time on the technical aspects of serving as a pilot, she would have also delved a bit deeper into her time out of the pilot's seat when dealing with the bureaucracy of the military. Moments like that could have served as tremendous inspiration for women who feel disenfranchised by the military for its celebration of men and their service over that of female soldiers. Sadly, yet again, she quickly brushed aside any mention of such significant events in her memoir, ultimately making her book appear all the more unfocused and bare-bones when it could have been so much more. Maybe it was out of modesty that she omitted any such mention of the accolades she may have earned, but when you are fighting for something as important as gender equality, there is no room for modesty.
Had MJ's book focused more exclusively on the hardships of being a female pilot whilst attempting to serve in an environment unkind to her presence, then I could have easily given this book higher marks. As it stands, however, too much of the book is spent on matters that I was not totally invested in and that had little to do with the whole feminism/gender equality angle that this book touted itself as having explored so intimately. While I can say I was let down a great deal by a lot of the book, I did find Mary Jennings Hegar's story to be inspirational for women and girls who wish to serve their country in the same capacity as any man could, and I do think it is worth reading for that reason alone. And it's definitely a must-read for those looking for insight into the Air Force if they were hoping to enlist in that branch of the military, since so much of the book deals with that aspect of her life. My conclusion: MJ's story is one worth telling, but Shoot Like a Girl didn't really tell much of that story, or at least it didn't do too good a job doing so.
So as not to begin this review on a negative note, I want to praise one particular section of this book as being one of the highlights of my reading. MJ recounts her most harrowing experience as a pilot while serving in Afghanistan, when a mission went south during a heated firefight and she took direct enemy fire from the Taliban. This highly intense and stressful event would have been enough to shake even the toughest male soldiers in the military, but MJ remained determined, focused, and valiant when it came to accomplishing her mission and backing up her fellow troops. In that moment, she proved to herself and to the rest of her chain of command that she was entirely capable of serving in a combat role with as much success as any male soldier, making her statement clear that women are just as well-off serving their country as any man is. Mary Jennings Hegar is living proof that women can, and should, be entrusted with important military roles, and that any cause seeking to elevate women in the military is a worthy endeavor for both our country as well as the women who wish to serve it. This section provided both a riveting war story that outlined the heroism of our troops while simultaneously demonstrating the absurdity of gender discrimination in our military. Definitely one of the best parts of the entire book.
Now for my more critical opinions, and there are a few.
My greatest complaint about Shoot Like a Girl is how it primarily focused on aspects of the author's life that were not particularly relevant or necessary to the story she claimed to be telling. This book advertises itself as being the story of one woman's struggle to be accepted into the male-dominated military, documenting her fight to change its sexist culture to more openly allow women to serve. Now that sounds like a great memoir to get behind, but you won't find much of that in Shoot Like a Girl. Unfortunately, MJ used most of her time talking about the rigors of training, the logistics of military work, and other such technical matters that pertained to the military and piloting air vehicles. Now, I consider myself to be a fervent supporter of the military and our service men and women, and I don't want to demean the importance of their hard work, but I did not pick this book up to learn about how things operated in the military. I got this book expecting to read a harrowing tale of one woman's brave stance against the tyranny of sexism; I wanted an account that detailed the actions MJ took to allow other women to serve in combat roles, the hardships she endured fighting for such a controversial cause, and all the related feelings and exciting moments that would have naturally followed in her noble pursuits. But like I said, these moments were seemingly absent most of the time, having been usurped by other, frankly unimportant details about MJ's service and the routines associated with serving. The only real mention we get of her activism is in the last two chapters, and even then she only barely scratches the surface of her work towards equality in the military. She very briefly mentioned things like coming across lawmakers and veterans who opposed her cause and challenged her views, and tough moments where she was interviewed on TV regarding her positions and thoughts on women's military rights. Rather than going in-depth about these moments in her fight for equality, she just glossed over them as if they were virtually insignificant to her story...but those were the type of stories I came here to read! I understand that the ins-and-outs of getting into the military and piloting were important for context, but taking up a vast majority of the novel for these matters did no favors for her memoir on gender equality. I felt like the book was just getting started right as it ended, and I was sorely disappointed by how everything panned out.
When MJ did talk about the discrimination she faced as a female pilot in the military, these sections proved to be the most engrossing parts in the entire book. Sadly, these parts were quite infrequent compared to the litany of stories we got on military procedure. She undoubtedly suffered a great deal of discrimination and put up with a lot of misogyny from both the people within the military as well as in her personal life. I felt truly bad for what she had to endure for having committed the apparently unforgivable offense that was being born a female, therefore apparently making her “unfit" for the job according to many highly ignorant and intolerant people. This discrimination was so extreme at times that I found myself being physically disgusted at what I had just read; quite dumbfounded was I at how such a level of depravity could go unpunished and unchanged for so long in our own military. (That is not necessarily an affront to the serving members of the military as a whole, but rather towards its administrators and higher-ups – those who clearly have knowledge about these crimes and still choose not to act justly against them.) MJ is truly an inspirational public figure and heroic veteran whose story is sure to resonate with aspiring female soldiers all across this country, but I'm still wondering why this book wasn't primarily comprised of these fascinating stories and anecdotes.
I also thought it was a strange decision on the author's part to omit any mention of her military accolades and awards in greater detail since it would have added yet another layer of depth to her story about female capability in the military. I wanted to learn how well (or poorly) she was received when she was given her awards, or what it felt like being one of the few women in the military to receive such high honors when they have been historically awarded predominantly to men. I was hoping that, since she focused so much time on the technical aspects of serving as a pilot, she would have also delved a bit deeper into her time out of the pilot's seat when dealing with the bureaucracy of the military. Moments like that could have served as tremendous inspiration for women who feel disenfranchised by the military for its celebration of men and their service over that of female soldiers. Sadly, yet again, she quickly brushed aside any mention of such significant events in her memoir, ultimately making her book appear all the more unfocused and bare-bones when it could have been so much more. Maybe it was out of modesty that she omitted any such mention of the accolades she may have earned, but when you are fighting for something as important as gender equality, there is no room for modesty.
Had MJ's book focused more exclusively on the hardships of being a female pilot whilst attempting to serve in an environment unkind to her presence, then I could have easily given this book higher marks. As it stands, however, too much of the book is spent on matters that I was not totally invested in and that had little to do with the whole feminism/gender equality angle that this book touted itself as having explored so intimately. While I can say I was let down a great deal by a lot of the book, I did find Mary Jennings Hegar's story to be inspirational for women and girls who wish to serve their country in the same capacity as any man could, and I do think it is worth reading for that reason alone. And it's definitely a must-read for those looking for insight into the Air Force if they were hoping to enlist in that branch of the military, since so much of the book deals with that aspect of her life. My conclusion: MJ's story is one worth telling, but Shoot Like a Girl didn't really tell much of that story, or at least it didn't do too good a job doing so.
April 22, 2021
Книжка дуже сподобалась - реальна нереальна історія! Усе те, що захоплює нас в хороших американських фільмах: мужність бойових льотчиків, героїчні історії евакуації поранених, братерство і "врятувати своїх попри все" - усього цього вдосталь, від першої особи і невигаданого.
Це історія жінки, яка ще дівчинкою вирішила стати військовим пілотом і служити батьківщині, і стала, попри всі перешкоди. Є, звичайно, про дискримінацію й приниження, яких вона зазнала, про горе й страждання, які пережила, але все це переказано стримано, динамічно і щиро.
Хороша книжка у гідному перекладі Анастасії Дудченко.
Це історія жінки, яка ще дівчинкою вирішила стати військовим пілотом і служити батьківщині, і стала, попри всі перешкоди. Є, звичайно, про дискримінацію й приниження, яких вона зазнала, про горе й страждання, які пережила, але все це переказано стримано, динамічно і щиро.
Хороша книжка у гідному перекладі Анастасії Дудченко.
May 31, 2021
The good thing about memories is the priceless price of shared experiences.
Whether you agree or not, with the voice of the person who writes them, the resounding influence they have to expand your mind and your reality is indisputable.
For me it was a pleasure to immerse myself in the life story of Air National Guard Major Mary Jennings Hegar. She just couldn't stop listening to him.
From her courage to her resilience, to end her fight for gender equality is applicable to all existence no matter what your goals are.
Whether you agree or not, with the voice of the person who writes them, the resounding influence they have to expand your mind and your reality is indisputable.
For me it was a pleasure to immerse myself in the life story of Air National Guard Major Mary Jennings Hegar. She just couldn't stop listening to him.
From her courage to her resilience, to end her fight for gender equality is applicable to all existence no matter what your goals are.
March 15, 2017
Very engaging memoir of a woman who served in the Air Force, including active combat in Afghanistan. Her experience, of course, encompasses women's issues in the military, but that definitely does not overshadow the interest level of her story for anyone who enjoys military or adventure reads.
I do find it highly ironic that a person experiencing discrimination and abuse would continue the atmosphere of belittling women by using the word "Girl" in the title and a few places in her narrative when speaking of a grown and professional adult. It takes me back to the frustration I felt at the subtitle (or tagline?) of the movie, "Zero Dark Thirty: The Girl Who Got Bin Laden" - because no 12 year old child got him. It was, again, a grown, professional woman. I'm not a foam-mouthed zealot for feminism, but I don't like being constantly belittled into non-adulthood. Did that stop me reading this book? No, and I enjoyed it very much.
I do find it highly ironic that a person experiencing discrimination and abuse would continue the atmosphere of belittling women by using the word "Girl" in the title and a few places in her narrative when speaking of a grown and professional adult. It takes me back to the frustration I felt at the subtitle (or tagline?) of the movie, "Zero Dark Thirty: The Girl Who Got Bin Laden" - because no 12 year old child got him. It was, again, a grown, professional woman. I'm not a foam-mouthed zealot for feminism, but I don't like being constantly belittled into non-adulthood. Did that stop me reading this book? No, and I enjoyed it very much.
April 23, 2017
I loved this book. Thanks for talking about the Air Force culture. More work needs to be done in this area to see that it doesn't happen again. I am a female Air Force veteran. Thanks for writing Shoot Like A Girl. Don't give up. Keep Fighting.
![Profile Image for laurel [the suspected bibliophile].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645808644i%2F7494844._UX200_CR0%2C6%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 28, 2019
Battle readiness had nothing to do with gender, and everything to do with individual capability.
The draw to this book is Major Hegar's blood-pounding story of being shot down in enemy territory, taking enemy fire, getting wounded and still doing everything she could to medevac her wounded people out.
Surprisingly enough, as riveting and intense as those chapters were, the rest of the book far out shadowed this moment.
What can possibly be more intense than being shot down and receiving (and giving) fire?
The rest of the story.
How Hegar faced discrimination based on her gender and not her capabilities, how she had to bend over backwards to be number one in order to be considered able to stand in with the guys, how men in positions of power exerted that power over her when she was at her most vulnerable (and in the beginning stages of her career with no recourse for change).
How these men were all caught—apologized and then were never punished by their chains of command, but were rather protected from punishment, and in some cases, awarded for their excellence in their professions despite sexually assaulting a woman (probably more than one) during the course of their duties. How she didn't want to speak up or press charges because of the real reality that doing so would torpedo her career.
This is not a light read, but it is one that I feel is essential for all male service members to read.
I don't give a flaming fuck if you're not Air Force. Hegar saw combat. She flew into shit situations to rescue injured service members. She engaged in combat. Even if she hadn't, her story would still be relevant because of her warrior spirit and determination in spite of the often unrelenting discrimination she faced just because she was a woman.
Women in the military? Friends, you can read this if you want, but it's nothing we haven't experienced daily in the course of our duties. Trigger warnings may apply (see previous paragraphs), so please protect your mental health.
Despite the well researched and argued final chapter, which details her lawsuit against the Department of Defense and it's ground combat exclusion policy, which laid out the path for women to be allowed to serve in combat (haha, they had been for years by that time), I was a little disappointed by the lack of female presence in her own story.
The few women represented were...mostly disheartening to read and I felt a touch of that old "exceptional female" mentality that a lot of female service members get. That because there are so few of us, we have to be the best and anyone who falls short is only letting down the rest of womankind. It's an isolating position, and one that only reinforces the misogynistic reality that women in the military face.
I did, however, like that Hegar pointed out moments of cowardice of the men she served with, and how when a wounded female service member (understandably) lost her shit a little, it was that woman that Hegar's crewmates ragged on—not the other wounded service member who was lost in space or their overwatch helicopter team who refused to take lead and touch down because the aircraft commander had lost his nerve (and nearly killed everyone in the process).
As to the controversial issue of allowing women to openly serve in ground combat MOSs: dawg, women have been doing it for years. In the kind of wars we have been fighting for the past 18 years, there is no stagnant battlefield, and there are necessary roles out there that only women can do. So to get around the exclusion act, commanders would insert women as augments for a short period to ground forces—essentially setting up these women for failure, as they might not have had training and they certainly had not trained with the team they were augmenting, so the essential trust and respect necessary for ground combat units wasn't established. And when they returned home, many women found it was hard to get the very real help they needed from their commands or the VA.
tl;dr: essential reading for military service members, particularly the cis dudes, because just because women are now allowed in ground combat units and roles doesn't mean that misogyny doesn't exist.
It does.
And it needs to go the way of the dinosaur.
The draw to this book is Major Hegar's blood-pounding story of being shot down in enemy territory, taking enemy fire, getting wounded and still doing everything she could to medevac her wounded people out.
Surprisingly enough, as riveting and intense as those chapters were, the rest of the book far out shadowed this moment.
What can possibly be more intense than being shot down and receiving (and giving) fire?
The rest of the story.
How Hegar faced discrimination based on her gender and not her capabilities, how she had to bend over backwards to be number one in order to be considered able to stand in with the guys, how men in positions of power exerted that power over her when she was at her most vulnerable (and in the beginning stages of her career with no recourse for change).
How these men were all caught—apologized and then were never punished by their chains of command, but were rather protected from punishment, and in some cases, awarded for their excellence in their professions despite sexually assaulting a woman (probably more than one) during the course of their duties. How she didn't want to speak up or press charges because of the real reality that doing so would torpedo her career.
This is not a light read, but it is one that I feel is essential for all male service members to read.
I don't give a flaming fuck if you're not Air Force. Hegar saw combat. She flew into shit situations to rescue injured service members. She engaged in combat. Even if she hadn't, her story would still be relevant because of her warrior spirit and determination in spite of the often unrelenting discrimination she faced just because she was a woman.
Women in the military? Friends, you can read this if you want, but it's nothing we haven't experienced daily in the course of our duties. Trigger warnings may apply (see previous paragraphs), so please protect your mental health.
Despite the well researched and argued final chapter, which details her lawsuit against the Department of Defense and it's ground combat exclusion policy, which laid out the path for women to be allowed to serve in combat (haha, they had been for years by that time), I was a little disappointed by the lack of female presence in her own story.
The few women represented were...mostly disheartening to read and I felt a touch of that old "exceptional female" mentality that a lot of female service members get. That because there are so few of us, we have to be the best and anyone who falls short is only letting down the rest of womankind. It's an isolating position, and one that only reinforces the misogynistic reality that women in the military face.
I did, however, like that Hegar pointed out moments of cowardice of the men she served with, and how when a wounded female service member (understandably) lost her shit a little, it was that woman that Hegar's crewmates ragged on—not the other wounded service member who was lost in space or their overwatch helicopter team who refused to take lead and touch down because the aircraft commander had lost his nerve (and nearly killed everyone in the process).
As to the controversial issue of allowing women to openly serve in ground combat MOSs: dawg, women have been doing it for years. In the kind of wars we have been fighting for the past 18 years, there is no stagnant battlefield, and there are necessary roles out there that only women can do. So to get around the exclusion act, commanders would insert women as augments for a short period to ground forces—essentially setting up these women for failure, as they might not have had training and they certainly had not trained with the team they were augmenting, so the essential trust and respect necessary for ground combat units wasn't established. And when they returned home, many women found it was hard to get the very real help they needed from their commands or the VA.
tl;dr: essential reading for military service members, particularly the cis dudes, because just because women are now allowed in ground combat units and roles doesn't mean that misogyny doesn't exist.
It does.
And it needs to go the way of the dinosaur.
January 18, 2018
Отличная книга о том, что даже в 21 веке полно людей, считающих, что женщина обязана обслуживать мужа и не лезть в "мужские" профессии. И о том, что это не приговор.
В связи с темой книги, особенно неприятно было прочесть в аннотации на обложке слова "всего-навсего хрупкая женщина". Серьёзно, это вы об авторе?! О женщине, которая сделала всё, чтобы показать, что ей не нужно поблажек и скидок на пол?! О женщине, которая вызывала мужиков, сомневающихся в её компетентности, на спор "кто больше отожмётся"?!
Могли хотя бы книжку прочесть перед тем, как писать текст на обложку.
В связи с темой книги, особенно неприятно было прочесть в аннотации на обложке слова "всего-навсего хрупкая женщина". Серьёзно, это вы об авторе?! О женщине, которая сделала всё, чтобы показать, что ей не нужно поблажек и скидок на пол?! О женщине, которая вызывала мужиков, сомневающихся в её компетентности, на спор "кто больше отожмётся"?!
Могли хотя бы книжку прочесть перед тем, как писать текст на обложку.
August 21, 2021
I feel bad giving this book only one star but truly, I couldn't give it anything higher. I would give a half a star if I could. I will start by saying that I have the greatest respect for the military and they deserve all the honor we can give them for all that they have sacrificed. I will be the first to admit that I wouldn't survive a second in the military. They have more bravery in their pinky than I have in my whole body.
I'm sure the Mary Jennings Hegar is a very accomplished pilot and member of the military and her bravery in Afghanistan is truly inspiring.......but she comes off TERRIBLY in this book. I get that being a woman in the military has to be an endless frustrating fight. Sexism thrives more in the military than almost anywhere. Women can take one of two paths: 1. put your head down and let your actions and talents speak for you or 2. Constantly complain and make excuses for why you aren't given all the same privileges as men. MJ definitely takes path number two in this book. I lost count how many times I rolled my eyes. Her "humble-brag" was so thinly veiled it would make you throw up. Her stories were completely far-fetched and unbelievable. She was constantly making excuses for herself and her poor choices saying that sexism was to blame for all of them..... Truly she sounds like one of those women that I stay far away from.
Maybe I would have had a different opinion if I hadn't read the book about Ashley White a few months ago. Lt. Ashley White was another woman fighting against female stereotypes in the front lines of Afghanistan. She died in the line of action so the book was written by an outsider but I still got the sense that she flew under the radar and let her amazing, legitimate skills do all the talking.
This is one of the few books that I will not keep on my shelves.
I'm sure the Mary Jennings Hegar is a very accomplished pilot and member of the military and her bravery in Afghanistan is truly inspiring.......but she comes off TERRIBLY in this book. I get that being a woman in the military has to be an endless frustrating fight. Sexism thrives more in the military than almost anywhere. Women can take one of two paths: 1. put your head down and let your actions and talents speak for you or 2. Constantly complain and make excuses for why you aren't given all the same privileges as men. MJ definitely takes path number two in this book. I lost count how many times I rolled my eyes. Her "humble-brag" was so thinly veiled it would make you throw up. Her stories were completely far-fetched and unbelievable. She was constantly making excuses for herself and her poor choices saying that sexism was to blame for all of them..... Truly she sounds like one of those women that I stay far away from.
Maybe I would have had a different opinion if I hadn't read the book about Ashley White a few months ago. Lt. Ashley White was another woman fighting against female stereotypes in the front lines of Afghanistan. She died in the line of action so the book was written by an outsider but I still got the sense that she flew under the radar and let her amazing, legitimate skills do all the talking.
This is one of the few books that I will not keep on my shelves.
July 25, 2017
This is not a work of great literature, but is important as a record of what it takes for women to survive in the military. Hegar was truly driven and courageous.
May 12, 2025
Adding this to one of my top favorite books. Reading this book made be reflect a lot on my own experiences. Mary began her story sharing having an abusive father and how she saw her mother thrown through a glass door. Reading this felt like I was reading my own memory, but it made me realize that I can now look back at those painful moments without it taking control of my feelings. I loved how she met her step father who became her dad. I can relate so much to this. My step father has become my Dad and he has helped me overcome my own fear of fear. Mary moved to Texas! Best state to be at! The fact that she overcome many personal and professional challenges and kept her head up the entire time is such an inspiration. She is one of the strongest people I’ve ever read of. Just like Mary I’ve also been told that I’m not strong enough, tall enough, and made for the job. Mary’s resilience to prove people wrong and her bravery to not be that little girl again shows the courage she holds. She shared her story on sexual assault and how it affected her in her career. She shares many relatable moments for all of those who are in AFROTC, have gone through SERE, and are wanting to follow an aviation career. She also shares events she encountered in her active duty career that taught her valuable lessons.
I definitely recommend this book to all the GIRLS in the military aviation field.
I definitely recommend this book to all the GIRLS in the military aviation field.
March 10, 2019
MJ Hegar is an inspiration in perseverance. In her memoir, she details her arduous journey to become a US Air Force Pilot and the many attempts her male superiors made to thwart her progress simply because she’s a women. The misogyny she faced is absolutely stunning. The lack of responsibility on the military’s behalf to punish the flight doctor who sexually assaulted her is outrageous.
Hegar’s story is important because it shows that we, as individuals, can affect change. We can still succeed despite everyone’s best attempts to drag us down. Hegar regularly shows her fears and vulnerabilities, but she learns from these moments to become a courageous person who’s not afraid to speak up for herself (sometimes to her detriment).
My only complaint is that the book ends abruptly after she wins her lawsuit against the Department of Defense for the Ground Combat Exclusion Policy being unconstitutional. I felt like there were still a lot of loose threads that never had firm resolution, but maybe that’s a reflection of how she’s able to move on from her past experiences.
See more of my reviews: Blog // Instagram
Hegar’s story is important because it shows that we, as individuals, can affect change. We can still succeed despite everyone’s best attempts to drag us down. Hegar regularly shows her fears and vulnerabilities, but she learns from these moments to become a courageous person who’s not afraid to speak up for herself (sometimes to her detriment).
My only complaint is that the book ends abruptly after she wins her lawsuit against the Department of Defense for the Ground Combat Exclusion Policy being unconstitutional. I felt like there were still a lot of loose threads that never had firm resolution, but maybe that’s a reflection of how she’s able to move on from her past experiences.
See more of my reviews: Blog // Instagram
February 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this memoir. While her writing is simplistic and she could’ve cut her use of the word ‘thrilled’ in half, MJ Hegar is absolutely a force to be reckoned with. I particularly enjoyed the second half of her memoir and the final chapter where she goes on to spearhead a suit against the Secretary of Defense to allow women in combat (in 2013, LESS THAN 9 YEARS AGO). Thank you for your service MJ and for the work you have done post military career!
“Being so outspoken on such a controversial topic is not without its costs, though, and this particular topic seems to bring out the worst in people whose fragile grasp on their idea of gender roles cannot withstand the challenge of intellectual debate.”
“Being so outspoken on such a controversial topic is not without its costs, though, and this particular topic seems to bring out the worst in people whose fragile grasp on their idea of gender roles cannot withstand the challenge of intellectual debate.”
December 28, 2020
WOW, I cannot say enough good things about this book!! It is amazing and I would recommend it to anyone interested in the military and/or would like to join one day. I'm so thankful for the perseverance of Mary Jennings Hegar and her ability to write about her experiences and prove to the world what women are capable of. Not only is this book inspiring but it was also very educational. I learned a lot about the military and leadership which is something that I am always ready to learn about. I also cannot be thankful enough to Mrs.Hegar for her resounding work in getting the Ground Combat Exclusion Policy lifted, and rendering our military stronger because of it.
October 26, 2025
Непогана книга, але я не можу сказати що вона мене дуже сильно вразила. З її великих плюсів - вона невелика і не напряжна, зате інтенсивна і насичена подіями. Мені важко зрозуміти людей, що йдуть служити, в країнах де немає активних воєнних дій. Особливо яка мотивація в американців. Ця нація залишається суцільною загадкою для мене. Але з іншої сторони, мені було дуже цікаво прочитати про шлях жінки в армії. Про те, як сексизм може існувати в тисячах різноманітних варіацій, і наскільки це безсенсовно.
Цікаво, що я ніколи особливо не думала про пілотів гвинтокрилів, і наскільки для мене завжди було очевидним, що жінки - класні пілоти. Ну не в тому плані, що я на цьому знаюсь, а в тому плані що в моїй голові завжди була впевненість у цьому.
Книжка непогана. Чудово підходить аби прочитати за день, але навряд чи буду її рекомендувати комусь з друзів.
Цікаво, що я ніколи особливо не думала про пілотів гвинтокрилів, і наскільки для мене завжди було очевидним, що жінки - класні пілоти. Ну не в тому плані, що я на цьому знаюсь, а в тому плані що в моїй голові завжди була впевненість у цьому.
Книжка непогана. Чудово підходить аби прочитати за день, але навряд чи буду її рекомендувати комусь з друзів.
February 9, 2024
Really a 4.5. Excellent read. women strong!!
July 6, 2024
Really good book. Autobiography of a woman who became a helicopter pilot in the afghan war. Very well written and full of exciting descriptions of her wartime experiences.
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November 9, 20176/16/2017 0 COMMENTS
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Review by: Mark Palm
4 out of 5 stars
I have read more than my fair share of military biographies, and most of them are so-so, with the most notable exceptions being those of Ulysses Grant, Winston Churchill, and T.E. Lawrence. Mary Jennings Hegar’s Shoot Like A Girl: One Woman’s Dramatic Fight in Afghanistan and the Home Front may not quite be as good but it’s damn close. In fact, in some ways it is better. This book may not be a work of literature equal to the ones that I have just mentioned, but Ms. Hegar is fighting two battles here; she is documenting her life as a soldier, and a warrior, and also telling the tale of her battle with the entrenched biases against women serving in the military, and particularly against women serving in combat.
Ms. Hegar takes us through her life from before high school up until the end of her career, and she does not stint or gloss over the personal ups and downs she experienced. After being commissioned into the U.S. Air Force, Ms. Hegar was selected for pilot training by the Air National Guard, finishing at the top of her class. Eventually she served three tours in Afghanistan, flying search-and rescue missions, culminating with an extremely dangerous mission that ended with her winning a Purple Heart and a Distinguished Flying Cross.
Through all of this Ms. Hegar’s prose style is transparent in the best way, giving equal insight into her relationships with friends and family, and also into the nuts and bolts reality of being a soldier. From the humdrum down time to the nerve-wracking realities of combat Ms. Hegar never overplays her hand. It all feels as solid and real as a brick. Not surprisingly the scenes involving flight are so vivid that I felt that I was right there in the cockpit. The author also shows a real knack for describing complex processes and procedures in a clear way, without over-simplification. What gives this book an extra lift is that the author takes the same approach in dealing with her personal and emotional life. Whether dealing with sexual harassment or her first turbulent marriage, or times when her drive to be the best actually became an impediment to the success of a particular mission, Ms. Hegar lets the moment speak for itself. Rare is the writer who can accomplish that without putting their thumb on the scale. Let me make clear that that does not mean that she tells her story without passion or feeling. There are plenty of moments that made want to cry, or stand up and cheer, but Ms. Hegar is first and foremost a soldier, and ir shows in her matter-of fact approach to even the most difficult parts of her life.
Shoot Like A Girl is a tight, taut gripping book by and about a kick-ass woman warrior. ANd one of the most intriguing aspects of the book is when Ms. Hegar shows us that she sees her role not only a duty, but a joy. When things are their most perilous Ms. Hegar seems to bloom, and she shows this time and again, without ever dismissing the fact that her life, and the lives of her comrades are on the line. Heroic is a word that is often tossed around lightly, but I really think cannot think of a word that fits better here.
As always I have tried not to drop any spoilers, but I will give you one teaser, in the hopes that if my review isn’t enough to make you read this book may this will; the title is not an insult, but a compliment. If you want to know how and why, well, read this book. You won’t regret it.
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Review by: Mark Palm
4 out of 5 stars
I have read more than my fair share of military biographies, and most of them are so-so, with the most notable exceptions being those of Ulysses Grant, Winston Churchill, and T.E. Lawrence. Mary Jennings Hegar’s Shoot Like A Girl: One Woman’s Dramatic Fight in Afghanistan and the Home Front may not quite be as good but it’s damn close. In fact, in some ways it is better. This book may not be a work of literature equal to the ones that I have just mentioned, but Ms. Hegar is fighting two battles here; she is documenting her life as a soldier, and a warrior, and also telling the tale of her battle with the entrenched biases against women serving in the military, and particularly against women serving in combat.
Ms. Hegar takes us through her life from before high school up until the end of her career, and she does not stint or gloss over the personal ups and downs she experienced. After being commissioned into the U.S. Air Force, Ms. Hegar was selected for pilot training by the Air National Guard, finishing at the top of her class. Eventually she served three tours in Afghanistan, flying search-and rescue missions, culminating with an extremely dangerous mission that ended with her winning a Purple Heart and a Distinguished Flying Cross.
Through all of this Ms. Hegar’s prose style is transparent in the best way, giving equal insight into her relationships with friends and family, and also into the nuts and bolts reality of being a soldier. From the humdrum down time to the nerve-wracking realities of combat Ms. Hegar never overplays her hand. It all feels as solid and real as a brick. Not surprisingly the scenes involving flight are so vivid that I felt that I was right there in the cockpit. The author also shows a real knack for describing complex processes and procedures in a clear way, without over-simplification. What gives this book an extra lift is that the author takes the same approach in dealing with her personal and emotional life. Whether dealing with sexual harassment or her first turbulent marriage, or times when her drive to be the best actually became an impediment to the success of a particular mission, Ms. Hegar lets the moment speak for itself. Rare is the writer who can accomplish that without putting their thumb on the scale. Let me make clear that that does not mean that she tells her story without passion or feeling. There are plenty of moments that made want to cry, or stand up and cheer, but Ms. Hegar is first and foremost a soldier, and ir shows in her matter-of fact approach to even the most difficult parts of her life.
Shoot Like A Girl is a tight, taut gripping book by and about a kick-ass woman warrior. ANd one of the most intriguing aspects of the book is when Ms. Hegar shows us that she sees her role not only a duty, but a joy. When things are their most perilous Ms. Hegar seems to bloom, and she shows this time and again, without ever dismissing the fact that her life, and the lives of her comrades are on the line. Heroic is a word that is often tossed around lightly, but I really think cannot think of a word that fits better here.
As always I have tried not to drop any spoilers, but I will give you one teaser, in the hopes that if my review isn’t enough to make you read this book may this will; the title is not an insult, but a compliment. If you want to know how and why, well, read this book. You won’t regret it.
September 24, 2017
Picked this up because of the title (apparently it's not an insult, women tend to be better marksmen than men, for several reasons). I was surprised at how well-written it was given the lack of a ghostwriter. I was expecting the first half to be about soldiering and the second half to be about policy fighting, so I was pleasantly surprised that the exciting stuff was 9/10 of the book and there was only one chapter about suing the government.
The author totally kicks ass. I like how her standard challenge to anybody who denigrates her for being a woman is to challenge them to a push-up contest. She says she has never lost because the super fit men don't feel threatened by her. I admired the way she kept pursuing her dream of becoming a pilot when it kept getting pushed farther and farther away (she didn't get selected out of ROTC, then she didn't get selected from Japan because another woman was about to age out, so she finally went Air National Guard). I also admired the way she talked frankly about mistakes she had made and lessons she had learned, without attaching shame or embarrassment to them. (Sheryl Sandberg noticed that is emphasized in the military.) If only everybody could act like that. I also admired her for getting through a lot of stuff (abusive father, unexpected death of wonderful stepfather, bad knee injury and incomplete recovery causing her to have to take SERE twice, sexual assault by flight surgeon, unit that watched her get sexually harassed and did nothing).
I liked the story with the bunny (c'mon, if you're told not to name it, clearly it's not a mascot) and the exciting combat stories (daring pilots save the day!). There was also good food for thought in the story of her good friend TJ saying to her "That's why they shouldn't let women in combat" after a wounded female soldier they had picked up got scared. What, competent women aren't thought of as female? And as MJ said, the male pilot of Pedro 16 lost his nerve too.
Anyway, once again, I feel lucky that I haven't been harassed even though I'm in a male-dominated field. Was it telling that the unit that accepted her was from California and the unit that just let her get harassed was from New York? Or was that a coincidence?
The author totally kicks ass. I like how her standard challenge to anybody who denigrates her for being a woman is to challenge them to a push-up contest. She says she has never lost because the super fit men don't feel threatened by her. I admired the way she kept pursuing her dream of becoming a pilot when it kept getting pushed farther and farther away (she didn't get selected out of ROTC, then she didn't get selected from Japan because another woman was about to age out, so she finally went Air National Guard). I also admired the way she talked frankly about mistakes she had made and lessons she had learned, without attaching shame or embarrassment to them. (Sheryl Sandberg noticed that is emphasized in the military.) If only everybody could act like that. I also admired her for getting through a lot of stuff (abusive father, unexpected death of wonderful stepfather, bad knee injury and incomplete recovery causing her to have to take SERE twice, sexual assault by flight surgeon, unit that watched her get sexually harassed and did nothing).
I liked the story with the bunny (c'mon, if you're told not to name it, clearly it's not a mascot) and the exciting combat stories (daring pilots save the day!). There was also good food for thought in the story of her good friend TJ saying to her "That's why they shouldn't let women in combat" after a wounded female soldier they had picked up got scared. What, competent women aren't thought of as female? And as MJ said, the male pilot of Pedro 16 lost his nerve too.
Anyway, once again, I feel lucky that I haven't been harassed even though I'm in a male-dominated field. Was it telling that the unit that accepted her was from California and the unit that just let her get harassed was from New York? Or was that a coincidence?
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