What do you think?
Rate this book
Saipan: Suicide Island
Howdy everyone how many of y'all can say they have an autographed copy of this fine historical account of an American Marine that invaded a little, unknown island to liberate it from Japanese expansion and ended up falling in love with it and staying. It is not so much a war book as it is a cronological account of Guy's escapades and eventual life on Saipan. I and a close friend were close to this amazing, diminutive in stature but huge in principle and purpose MARINE! Semper Fi Guy! He is still with us in our hearts and freedom loving souls! See the movie "Hell to Eternity". Now let's get Brad Pitt to remake the movie! Bet he would!
Paperback
Published January 1, 1990
2 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 of 1 review
August 4, 2024
I have always loved the movie. Hell to Eternity and now I've read the true account of the battle of Saipan. Guy Gabaldon wrote his autobiography in a very readable format of the true history of the Marines fighting the Japanese. Any person who has seen Hell to Eternity will appreciate how it all happened and the love Gabaldon has for his fallen comrades.
The book depicts his humble childhood, his association with his adopted Japanese family, his fearless attitude acting as a lone wolf ferreting out the enemy. His recollection of the capture of 1200 prisoners is a truthful depiction of his efforts, in contrast to how the movie portrayed it. Guy details his life following the war, in Mexico and Costa Rico, learning to fly planes, and living as a hard working self made man. He talks extensively about the loss of American values and never wavers from his commitment to being a proud American.
Deprived of promotions and the Congressional Medal of Honor for his Hispanic heritage, he accepted the Navy Cross with pride. He was a true leader among his compadres in every aspect of his life.
I highly recommend this book to any WWII enthusiast on the life of a true hero.
The book depicts his humble childhood, his association with his adopted Japanese family, his fearless attitude acting as a lone wolf ferreting out the enemy. His recollection of the capture of 1200 prisoners is a truthful depiction of his efforts, in contrast to how the movie portrayed it. Guy details his life following the war, in Mexico and Costa Rico, learning to fly planes, and living as a hard working self made man. He talks extensively about the loss of American values and never wavers from his commitment to being a proud American.
Deprived of promotions and the Congressional Medal of Honor for his Hispanic heritage, he accepted the Navy Cross with pride. He was a true leader among his compadres in every aspect of his life.
I highly recommend this book to any WWII enthusiast on the life of a true hero.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 of 1 review