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Perfectly Wounded Lib/E: A Memoir about What Happens After a Miracle
The incredible true story of former Navy SEAL Mike Day, who survived being shot twenty-seven times while deployed in Iraq.
On the night of April 6, 2007, in Iraq's Anbar Province, Senior Chief Mike Day, his team of Navy SEALs, and a group of Iraqi scouts were on the hunt for a high-level al Qaeda cell. Day was the first to enter a 12x12 room where four terrorist leaders were waiting in ambush. When the gunfight was over, he took out all four terrorists in the room, but not before being shot twenty-seven times and hit with grenade shrapnel. Miraculously, Day cleared the rest of the house and rescued six women and children before walking out on his own to an awaiting helicopter, which flew him to safety.
While in the hospital, the Navy SEAL lost fifty-five pounds in two weeks. It took almost two years for Day to physically recover from his injuries, although he still deals with pain. Like so many veterans, doctors diagnosed Day with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury -- the invisible wounds of war.
Perfectly Wounded is the remarkable story of an American hero whose incredible survival defies explanation, and whose blessed life of service continues in the face of unimaginable odds.
On the night of April 6, 2007, in Iraq's Anbar Province, Senior Chief Mike Day, his team of Navy SEALs, and a group of Iraqi scouts were on the hunt for a high-level al Qaeda cell. Day was the first to enter a 12x12 room where four terrorist leaders were waiting in ambush. When the gunfight was over, he took out all four terrorists in the room, but not before being shot twenty-seven times and hit with grenade shrapnel. Miraculously, Day cleared the rest of the house and rescued six women and children before walking out on his own to an awaiting helicopter, which flew him to safety.
While in the hospital, the Navy SEAL lost fifty-five pounds in two weeks. It took almost two years for Day to physically recover from his injuries, although he still deals with pain. Like so many veterans, doctors diagnosed Day with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury -- the invisible wounds of war.
Perfectly Wounded is the remarkable story of an American hero whose incredible survival defies explanation, and whose blessed life of service continues in the face of unimaginable odds.
Audio CD
First published June 9, 2020
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About the author
Robert Vera
5 books17 followersRobert earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Boston College and an MBA from Grand Canyon University. After college, he accepted an appointment as a Staff Assistant to a United States Senator where he managed military and veteran constituent services.
Robert transitioned from government into a financial service career where he worked in leadership positions for eighteen years.
Robert is the founder of the non-profit Institute for Transformation. He is the author of Perfectly Wounded (Twelve Publishing/ Hachette; June 2020), and A Warrior’s Faith (Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins; March 2015). The book earned the publishing industry's 2016 Illumination Silver Medal Award for Best Memoir.
He is a mentor to returning veterans. Each year he leads groups of warriors on expeditions across the Grand Canyon.
Robert is married with children and lives in Phoenix, Arizona where he works as a writer, author, and speaker.
Robert transitioned from government into a financial service career where he worked in leadership positions for eighteen years.
Robert is the founder of the non-profit Institute for Transformation. He is the author of Perfectly Wounded (Twelve Publishing/ Hachette; June 2020), and A Warrior’s Faith (Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins; March 2015). The book earned the publishing industry's 2016 Illumination Silver Medal Award for Best Memoir.
He is a mentor to returning veterans. Each year he leads groups of warriors on expeditions across the Grand Canyon.
Robert is married with children and lives in Phoenix, Arizona where he works as a writer, author, and speaker.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 14, 2022
I'm not ashamed to say this book had me in tears a couple times. They were manly, silent tears I'll have you know though. Mike Day is a Seal Operator that has lived quite a life and experienced trauma both personal and of those around him. This book is far more than just a military memoir about his actions abroad. It traverses his rough childhood, his life leading up to the military and his military life towards that fateful day he was severely wounded. A big part of the book is the physical, spiritual and mental path towards healing Mike Day underwent in the road to recovery. It was an eye opening book that details the epidemic our Military is facing with PTSD and TBI and gives guidance on how to overcome similar trauma. It was much more psychological and philosophical than I expected. I am a Military Veteran myself that served in OIF 07-09. Although I am blessed enough to escape my war without any injury or PTSD, there are many I served with that cannot say the same. I'd recommend this book for anyone that wants to understand what many of our Soldiers go through and want an inside look at this incredible man and how he overcame the enormous challenges thrown his way.
January 17, 2022
What do you do if you have been shot 27 times? I have absolutely no idea how I would react but now I know how ex navy SEAL Mike Day handled it. Perfectly Wounded is his story about what hapened April 6th 2007 and how he struggled to get on with his life. It also tells the story how he grew up and how he dedicated his life to help others. I found this book to be horrifying in parts and also very interesting and I learned a lot about what you can achieve through medical testing and how amazing the human body and mind is. The book is well written and actually a quick read.
August 22, 2020
This was a fascinating book that I quickly flew through although not without my share of tears.
Books like these always hit close to home that’s why I enjoy them so much. I love reading about these heroes.
Mike Day, a Navy SEAL, who was shot 27 time. We relive his miraculous recovery but more than that we see his upbringing and what led him to the Navy.
The horrific events of the day in Iraq when he was shot is mind blowing!
I love the alternative options Mike gives for PTSD- something to look into.
Thank you sir for your service to our country, I’m forever grateful.
Thanks to Netgalley for my gifted copy of this book.
Books like these always hit close to home that’s why I enjoy them so much. I love reading about these heroes.
Mike Day, a Navy SEAL, who was shot 27 time. We relive his miraculous recovery but more than that we see his upbringing and what led him to the Navy.
The horrific events of the day in Iraq when he was shot is mind blowing!
I love the alternative options Mike gives for PTSD- something to look into.
Thank you sir for your service to our country, I’m forever grateful.
Thanks to Netgalley for my gifted copy of this book.
July 12, 2023
Perfectly wounded a five hour and 20 minute unabridged audiobook.
Quite the stirring account. A childhood full of abuse didn't break him, but rather inoculated him to withstand physical punishment that most couldn't. Such a tragic end to this American hero.
Quite the stirring account. A childhood full of abuse didn't break him, but rather inoculated him to withstand physical punishment that most couldn't. Such a tragic end to this American hero.
July 18, 2020
Perfectly Wounded is a fascinating book. It's more than just the miraculous story of Navy Seal Mike Day being shot 27 times on a mission in Iraq and surviving, which is absolutely incredible on its own. It's about leadership, resilience, purpose & supporting those around you. I found it to be inspiring and challenged me to be introspective. As a result I'm now checking in on my own mental health and that of those around me to see what we can do to increase our own well-being.
Thank you to Mike Day for his service to this country and his continued service to those warriors who have been physically and/or emotionally wounded on the field of battle.
Thank you to Mike Day for his service to this country and his continued service to those warriors who have been physically and/or emotionally wounded on the field of battle.
November 10, 2021
First, I want to thank NetGalley and the author for allowing me to read this story in exchange for a review.
I usually try to shy away from these types of books, as a veteran wife I fear this type of situation for my husband and our friends who served in both Afghanistan and Iraq. I will say this book is wonderfully written, and it is a story that oozes courage, and resilience while still bringing raw awareness to those who suffer from PTSD. I truly enjoyed this book, and I plan on buying it for my husband to have as a winter read.
I usually try to shy away from these types of books, as a veteran wife I fear this type of situation for my husband and our friends who served in both Afghanistan and Iraq. I will say this book is wonderfully written, and it is a story that oozes courage, and resilience while still bringing raw awareness to those who suffer from PTSD. I truly enjoyed this book, and I plan on buying it for my husband to have as a winter read.
February 9, 2023
Great book! Mike Day, a Navy Seal shot 27 times while serving in Irag. This book goes through his upbringing and why he chose the Navy. He also explains how he copes with PTSP and how he managed to survive and keep surviving after that terrifying time. Fast read and let’s just say, have a Kleenex handy for some parts. Thoroughly enjoyed this one.
August 6, 2022
Crazy story and an excellent read. Mike Day’s story is fascinating and shocking, but the story after his injuries is really important. Helpful information about PTS and dealing with trauma through life.
May 5, 2023
This is a very raw and open account of first hand wartime events. It has some graphic details and honest language so the easily offended should be warned. Also the talk of PTSD and suicide if you’re not prepared can be very triggering emotionally, go into it prepared for some real deep feelings to be tapped on. This book was so powerful in how it put a spotlight on the internal impact of war and trauma on our military and trauma in general on the human experience. Opened my eye more to the ways we can care for, encourage and walk with those we love and those around us who are struggling and how we all play a role in healing or harming.
December 30, 2020
A fantastic story that gives a look at a Navy Seal who was severely wounded in action. The story goes far beyond his physical wounds and looks at his life before and after his injury. The book also gives great insight into what goes into becoming a Navy seal. A very inspirational story.
March 29, 2021
Perfectly Wounded
This is the personal story of Mike Day and his recovery not only from battle wounds, but also psychological injuries from his past.
Mike grew up in an extremely dysfunctional home. His father beat the living hell out of him, his brother and his half brother and sister. Drinking usually was the root cause, but sometimes it’s just because he wanted to. His stepmother wasn’t much better. All she cared about was partying and party she did after Mike’s dad was institutionalized. He stood up to her abuse one day and he and his brother were shipped to Maine and then their mother where life appeared to be somewhat normal. Still, the formative years left an indelible mark on him and structure wasn’t in his genes. He was expelled from school and wound up in a Job Corp program. While it was a stable environment, it wasn’t’ the cure-all. He didn’t begin his real journey till a retired Navy diver told him, “at your present rate, you’re either going to wind up dead or in jail. Think about joining the navy.” He did and became a SEAL, a life he loved even after he was shot twenty-seven times. You heard that right, twenty-seven times producing the title and what the doctors called being “perfectly wounded.” Why? Because no major organs or arteries were severed. That alone is amazing while his best friend took a bullet during the raid and died.
Now for the healing part. This is the crux of story. He became a social worker for Special Operations Command Care Program, another job he excelled at. But as time went on, his childhood past and military past began colliding with each patient he helped, and he didn’t know it. This would lead to a revelation he never saw coming. He wasn’t upset with his upbringing or his military wounds. He would learn how to mesh the two together to make him stronger and understanding not only who he was as a man, but what type of man he wanted to be. That is something many of us wish we could accomplish.
It wasn’t easy, by any stretch of the imagination, for him to confront all of the pent-up anxiety and fear that had been building over the decades. It wasn’t until he saw Dr. Beck and was diagnosed with microbiota-gut-brain axis syndrome. Basically, the bacteria in your gut is out of whack so when food is broken down, not all the nutrients our body needs to function properly are being properly distributed. And if that’s out of whack, the wrong combination of medications could cause more anxiety and depression instead of helping.
My only criticism is some of the paragraph structure wasn’t clean. Instead of a thought continuing it abruptly end and the next paragraph didn’t tie together.
Who will like this? Anyone wanting to know about the brave men and women who sacrificed so much for themselves and our country and the difficult road they have to travel to get back to what we civilians know as a “normal life.” There is nothing normal about it for those who have served. The rules they live by are much more honorable than the ones society uses. They have a code of honor and team unity no private sector company can begin to fathom.
Four Stars
This is the personal story of Mike Day and his recovery not only from battle wounds, but also psychological injuries from his past.
Mike grew up in an extremely dysfunctional home. His father beat the living hell out of him, his brother and his half brother and sister. Drinking usually was the root cause, but sometimes it’s just because he wanted to. His stepmother wasn’t much better. All she cared about was partying and party she did after Mike’s dad was institutionalized. He stood up to her abuse one day and he and his brother were shipped to Maine and then their mother where life appeared to be somewhat normal. Still, the formative years left an indelible mark on him and structure wasn’t in his genes. He was expelled from school and wound up in a Job Corp program. While it was a stable environment, it wasn’t’ the cure-all. He didn’t begin his real journey till a retired Navy diver told him, “at your present rate, you’re either going to wind up dead or in jail. Think about joining the navy.” He did and became a SEAL, a life he loved even after he was shot twenty-seven times. You heard that right, twenty-seven times producing the title and what the doctors called being “perfectly wounded.” Why? Because no major organs or arteries were severed. That alone is amazing while his best friend took a bullet during the raid and died.
Now for the healing part. This is the crux of story. He became a social worker for Special Operations Command Care Program, another job he excelled at. But as time went on, his childhood past and military past began colliding with each patient he helped, and he didn’t know it. This would lead to a revelation he never saw coming. He wasn’t upset with his upbringing or his military wounds. He would learn how to mesh the two together to make him stronger and understanding not only who he was as a man, but what type of man he wanted to be. That is something many of us wish we could accomplish.
It wasn’t easy, by any stretch of the imagination, for him to confront all of the pent-up anxiety and fear that had been building over the decades. It wasn’t until he saw Dr. Beck and was diagnosed with microbiota-gut-brain axis syndrome. Basically, the bacteria in your gut is out of whack so when food is broken down, not all the nutrients our body needs to function properly are being properly distributed. And if that’s out of whack, the wrong combination of medications could cause more anxiety and depression instead of helping.
My only criticism is some of the paragraph structure wasn’t clean. Instead of a thought continuing it abruptly end and the next paragraph didn’t tie together.
Who will like this? Anyone wanting to know about the brave men and women who sacrificed so much for themselves and our country and the difficult road they have to travel to get back to what we civilians know as a “normal life.” There is nothing normal about it for those who have served. The rules they live by are much more honorable than the ones society uses. They have a code of honor and team unity no private sector company can begin to fathom.
Four Stars
June 17, 2020
Mike Day shares his early life of childhood trauma and his experiences as a Navy SEAL and in particular how he was shot 27 times by the enemy and survived. One of the big takeaways for me is how he talks about trauma and agency. This book is very well-written, and keeps you engrossed in the story from beginning to end. I highly recommend it.
December 4, 2020
Despite being shot twenty seven times during one of his Middle East deployments, Navy SEAL Mike Day survives. His book tells the story of his survival and resiliency. He shares insight he learned throughout his recovery and how he continues to move forward when stress builds. I enjoyed learning about his life, his training and how he has chosen to spend his life in service to others.
July 29, 2020
Very good book
I have read a lot of Navy seal book and would point this one at the very top of my list. It's amazing what are men and women go throw to protect this great nation .
I have read a lot of Navy seal book and would point this one at the very top of my list. It's amazing what are men and women go throw to protect this great nation .
October 10, 2020
When I sat down and began to read this book, I knew I would be in for a ride emotionally. Growing up in a military family and hearing stories passed down from WWI past Vietnam. Here is a book that my father WWII and Korean Vet and his buddies I wished they could have read. Instead, I would sit in a barbershop and listen to these old guys talk of days while drinking beer and when I got older always wondered what really was my father thinking and had gone through.
Here Chief Day takes you through his journey from childhood trauma through the trials of making it through to having the Trident pounded into your chest. Knowing that the pain, fatigue, exhaustion was and is all worth every bit for it will all be replayed at some point. For him, it would many years later in Afghanistan. Going after a high target and then being in the room being shot multiple times. Having a grenade go off, coming too and seeing your friend and knowing in your mind he is dead, yet you are not but you know you have been hit repeatedly. He was shot 27 times with also a grenade going off. His buddy Clark Schwedler also a Seal took one round in his vest yet the round went straight through. He had a round hit his vest and nothing happened.
You then are taken through his recovery which was years, he gives props to his wife over and over, he also wishes he could have done more for his two daughters looking back not knowing what they were going through. He is honest about his PTSD and then goes into the work he is doing for and with other veterans. Overall, this is an excellent book and very much worth the read. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
Here Chief Day takes you through his journey from childhood trauma through the trials of making it through to having the Trident pounded into your chest. Knowing that the pain, fatigue, exhaustion was and is all worth every bit for it will all be replayed at some point. For him, it would many years later in Afghanistan. Going after a high target and then being in the room being shot multiple times. Having a grenade go off, coming too and seeing your friend and knowing in your mind he is dead, yet you are not but you know you have been hit repeatedly. He was shot 27 times with also a grenade going off. His buddy Clark Schwedler also a Seal took one round in his vest yet the round went straight through. He had a round hit his vest and nothing happened.
You then are taken through his recovery which was years, he gives props to his wife over and over, he also wishes he could have done more for his two daughters looking back not knowing what they were going through. He is honest about his PTSD and then goes into the work he is doing for and with other veterans. Overall, this is an excellent book and very much worth the read. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
November 14, 2020
Book reviews for stories like Michael Day's are fit into a couple of categories. Skeptics of the story; Skeptics of the war; Awestruck by the story but frustrated by the telling of the story; and Awestruck by it all.
Skeptics of the story and the war probably didn't finish the book.
I finished it in a few days.
The story is incredible. Not just the 27 shots but the wholistic way Michael Day evaluates all of his life as impacting the most difficult days and the good days as well.
I am a pastor of a church so I know I read things from my perspective. I kept hearing Romans 8:28 throughout the book. Michael never does mention that verse. He mentions God a couple of time but that is it. It is his story and he tells it very well.
So on with the review:
The story speaks for itself. Incredible. Heartbreaking and Heart warming. Lastly- inspiring. Surround yourself with the right people and listen. Then do it.
The writing of the story is very good. I've read a lot of biography/inspiration/motivation type books. There are way too many great stories that are handicapped by poor writing. This book isn't handicapped at all. There was only one section of the book that I felt was "slow." It was only a few pages and it likely was just my attention span at that moment. The rest of the book draws you in, keeps pulling story lines together, and introducing hope along the way. Just well written.
From a Christian perspective, read it. There may be things you don't like or agree with, but that is likely your(mine) problem and not Michael Day's. He probably wouldn't care anyway!
Skeptics of the story and the war probably didn't finish the book.
I finished it in a few days.
The story is incredible. Not just the 27 shots but the wholistic way Michael Day evaluates all of his life as impacting the most difficult days and the good days as well.
I am a pastor of a church so I know I read things from my perspective. I kept hearing Romans 8:28 throughout the book. Michael never does mention that verse. He mentions God a couple of time but that is it. It is his story and he tells it very well.
So on with the review:
The story speaks for itself. Incredible. Heartbreaking and Heart warming. Lastly- inspiring. Surround yourself with the right people and listen. Then do it.
The writing of the story is very good. I've read a lot of biography/inspiration/motivation type books. There are way too many great stories that are handicapped by poor writing. This book isn't handicapped at all. There was only one section of the book that I felt was "slow." It was only a few pages and it likely was just my attention span at that moment. The rest of the book draws you in, keeps pulling story lines together, and introducing hope along the way. Just well written.
From a Christian perspective, read it. There may be things you don't like or agree with, but that is likely your(mine) problem and not Michael Day's. He probably wouldn't care anyway!
December 29, 2023
"Perfectly Wounded" by Mike Day is a gripping and inspiring memoir that takes you on an incredible journey through the life of a true American hero. Day, a former Navy SEAL, shares his harrowing experiences and the unimaginable challenges he faced during a mission gone wrong.
What sets this book apart is Day's raw and honest storytelling. He doesn't sugarcoat the tough moments or downplay the impact they had on his physical and mental well-being. Instead, he takes you deep into the heart of his struggles, allowing readers to truly understand the toll that war can take on a person.
Despite the darkness, "Perfectly Wounded" is ultimately a story of resilience, strength, and the power of the human spirit. Day's determination to overcome adversity and rebuild his life is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The narrative is fast-paced, keeping you on the edge of your seat, and Day's sense of humor shines through, making it a surprisingly enjoyable read given the heavy subject matter.
In a world filled with superhero tales, "Perfectly Wounded" stands out as a real-life account of a man who faced the worst and emerged not as a flawless hero, but as a perfectly wounded human being who found his way back to the light. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an authentic and uplifting story of triumph over tragedy.
What sets this book apart is Day's raw and honest storytelling. He doesn't sugarcoat the tough moments or downplay the impact they had on his physical and mental well-being. Instead, he takes you deep into the heart of his struggles, allowing readers to truly understand the toll that war can take on a person.
Despite the darkness, "Perfectly Wounded" is ultimately a story of resilience, strength, and the power of the human spirit. Day's determination to overcome adversity and rebuild his life is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The narrative is fast-paced, keeping you on the edge of your seat, and Day's sense of humor shines through, making it a surprisingly enjoyable read given the heavy subject matter.
In a world filled with superhero tales, "Perfectly Wounded" stands out as a real-life account of a man who faced the worst and emerged not as a flawless hero, but as a perfectly wounded human being who found his way back to the light. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an authentic and uplifting story of triumph over tragedy.
June 24, 2023
I read the book and it is very good with your typical SEAL stories about BUD/S and Hell Week.
It also includes good combat stories and a first hand account of what it's like to be shot in combat and how the training of our men & women in the military takes over. It was tough to read how Mike Day was shot and the things he did to extract himself from his situation.
This book also details his struggles with PTSD, depression, mid-life crisis, and what many people in the working world deal with and that is the stress of a job (Mike's post Navy jobs), raising a family and trying to make ends meet and Mike did this while suffering from PTSD and depression and describes his feelings quite well.
The story about Mike's Kundalini Awakening was very interesting and terrifying at the same time.
While reading this book I Googled Mike Day, as I do about many authors who write their own memoirs, and learned that Mike Day passed away on March 27, 2023 at the age of 60 and likely as a result of suicide.
If you know a veteran and a veteran that has seen combat in the Wars in Afghanistan and/or Iraq ask them how they are and if they need help.
I highly recommend this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.
It also includes good combat stories and a first hand account of what it's like to be shot in combat and how the training of our men & women in the military takes over. It was tough to read how Mike Day was shot and the things he did to extract himself from his situation.
This book also details his struggles with PTSD, depression, mid-life crisis, and what many people in the working world deal with and that is the stress of a job (Mike's post Navy jobs), raising a family and trying to make ends meet and Mike did this while suffering from PTSD and depression and describes his feelings quite well.
The story about Mike's Kundalini Awakening was very interesting and terrifying at the same time.
While reading this book I Googled Mike Day, as I do about many authors who write their own memoirs, and learned that Mike Day passed away on March 27, 2023 at the age of 60 and likely as a result of suicide.
If you know a veteran and a veteran that has seen combat in the Wars in Afghanistan and/or Iraq ask them how they are and if they need help.
I highly recommend this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 1, 2020
There aren't enough adjectives to describe Mike Day's strength, tenacity, drive and determination. And this is before he became a SEAL. Just surviving his childhood would have been enough to crush almost any young man. But as you read Day's biography, you quickly see that he isn't just "any young man." God clearly used all the negatives in Day's formative years to prepare him for the road ahead, and what a hellish road it was. I started reading Day's book before bed and ended up reading through the night; I couldn't put it down. Loved his dry, witty sense of humor and the determination he had to keep fighting to survive after his crippling injuries. Then came the hard part (what? being shot *27* times isn't hard??) - surviving the emotional trauma. I wish Day's book could be required "therapeutic" reading for all wounded vets, to let them know they are not alone, there IS help and support out there and they *can* heal. Day is amazing. What a gift of hope and healing he offers to all veterans. Folks, we owe our military veterans ALL our support and gratitude. Can't say enough about Day or his book. Read it. You'll understand.
July 31, 2021
"Strange as it may sound, being wounded was one of the best things that ever happened to me"
-Mike Day, Navy Seals Operator who was shot 27 times and also blown up with a grenade by four insurgents.
This book left me speechless. It is heavy and dark yet inspirational and hopeful. Mike Day's story is packed with trauma from his childhood to being "perfectly wounded" in war. Ironically the bullet that almost killed him was the bullet from his own gun when he attempted his suicide, barely saved by a phone call from his boss/friend. Book also explores PTSD and depression where more soldiers are likely to die by suicide than in war.
"Adversity is either a privilege or a tragedy, depending on how you respond to it."
It is in the struggles that we face that lead to meaning and fulfilment. We all have a choice to give in to our struggles or move towards it directly. This is a vulnerable and honest account of Mike Day's story that is quite touching and also hopeful. I find that as long as we pick our selves up and keep facing our demons, we will all eventually have the tools to tackle our challenges.
-Mike Day, Navy Seals Operator who was shot 27 times and also blown up with a grenade by four insurgents.
This book left me speechless. It is heavy and dark yet inspirational and hopeful. Mike Day's story is packed with trauma from his childhood to being "perfectly wounded" in war. Ironically the bullet that almost killed him was the bullet from his own gun when he attempted his suicide, barely saved by a phone call from his boss/friend. Book also explores PTSD and depression where more soldiers are likely to die by suicide than in war.
"Adversity is either a privilege or a tragedy, depending on how you respond to it."
It is in the struggles that we face that lead to meaning and fulfilment. We all have a choice to give in to our struggles or move towards it directly. This is a vulnerable and honest account of Mike Day's story that is quite touching and also hopeful. I find that as long as we pick our selves up and keep facing our demons, we will all eventually have the tools to tackle our challenges.
September 10, 2022
Inredible Storytelling in this Audiobook
Mike Day had a life the polar opposite of mine with an abusive father and a challenging career in the military as a Navy Seal. Yet the storytelling in PERFECTLY WOUNDED kept me listening to this book. I found it fascinating because Day could not just tell the stories but also add his feelings and what was happening internally. The grit and courage and lessons from his experiences are built into the fiber of this book.
At one point in the book, Day is in Iraq on a mission and wounded in battle 27 different times. It is a miracle that he lived from such wounds and continues to help others through his life. I heard this book cover to cover and found it compelling and worthwhile. I recommend it.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
Mike Day had a life the polar opposite of mine with an abusive father and a challenging career in the military as a Navy Seal. Yet the storytelling in PERFECTLY WOUNDED kept me listening to this book. I found it fascinating because Day could not just tell the stories but also add his feelings and what was happening internally. The grit and courage and lessons from his experiences are built into the fiber of this book.
At one point in the book, Day is in Iraq on a mission and wounded in battle 27 different times. It is a miracle that he lived from such wounds and continues to help others through his life. I heard this book cover to cover and found it compelling and worthwhile. I recommend it.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
November 5, 2023
4.5 stars. The audiobook is great and very authentic. I love how all the things lined up perfectly for him to become a sailor. I wish the book was longer because it felt like he rushed and glossed over his upbringing and entrance into the military.
Notes:
Childhood trauma makes people a good fit for military service. They're twice as likely to have experienced childhood trauma than those who don't serve.
He thought boot camp was harder than BUDs. Because he was bored and his upbringing caused him to deal with anything.
I'm surprised he was able to attend BUDs at 18. I thought you had to be older.
We have evolutions in life, not chapters.
I like how he said, crying is a part of resiliency. Tears and sweat carry stress chemicals out of the power.
He considers diving the most dangerous job in the SEALs.
Man !!! I hate this!!
Notes:
Childhood trauma makes people a good fit for military service. They're twice as likely to have experienced childhood trauma than those who don't serve.
He thought boot camp was harder than BUDs. Because he was bored and his upbringing caused him to deal with anything.
I'm surprised he was able to attend BUDs at 18. I thought you had to be older.
We have evolutions in life, not chapters.
I like how he said, crying is a part of resiliency. Tears and sweat carry stress chemicals out of the power.
He considers diving the most dangerous job in the SEALs.
Man !!! I hate this!!
December 22, 2023
A touching story that ends in victory. It is a miracle that Mike Day didn’t bleed to death having been shot 27 times. He saved women and children who were in the same place he was, after being shot. A Navy Seal in Iraq saving lives and killing all of the enemies that were there during this incident.
He suffered terribly, through many surgeries, and almost died more than once. More miracles. Mike and his brother were physically, emotionally and mentally abuse by their father. They survived that. Another miracle.
Mike saw friends die in battle, others losing arms, leg, or both. He struggled with physical pain and mental pain, coming very close to committing suicide. Just before pulling the trigger, another miracle. I’m thankful he is still alive. And that he is doing so much better. And I’m thankful for the MIRACLE WORKER!!!
Thank you Mike, and thank you to all those that fought for us. God bless each one of you and your families. CathyR
He suffered terribly, through many surgeries, and almost died more than once. More miracles. Mike and his brother were physically, emotionally and mentally abuse by their father. They survived that. Another miracle.
Mike saw friends die in battle, others losing arms, leg, or both. He struggled with physical pain and mental pain, coming very close to committing suicide. Just before pulling the trigger, another miracle. I’m thankful he is still alive. And that he is doing so much better. And I’m thankful for the MIRACLE WORKER!!!
Thank you Mike, and thank you to all those that fought for us. God bless each one of you and your families. CathyR
September 3, 2020
I am constantly amazed by the poise and abilities of our military special operators. Chief Day is another example of someone who has persevered through circumstances that would break most people. His traumas began during his childhood and compounded as a result of both his battlefield experiences and ultimately injuries he never should have survived.
As a long time public servant, I too have dealt with post traumatic stress. It took me far too long to both identify and seek treatment for the effects I was feeling and my experience pales in comparison to Day’s. I truly believe that this story could be helpful to anyone who reads it, and even more so to soldiers and other public servants alike.
As a long time public servant, I too have dealt with post traumatic stress. It took me far too long to both identify and seek treatment for the effects I was feeling and my experience pales in comparison to Day’s. I truly believe that this story could be helpful to anyone who reads it, and even more so to soldiers and other public servants alike.
December 5, 2022
Wow just wow what a powerful story of a remarkable man who’s courage is without question as he faces a death defying challenge that rocks him to the core. 27 times he was shot at close range and survived a hand grenade. He was perfectly wounded and also protected in ways that cannot be explained. Having trained to be a navy seal he was not afraid of death but living after surviving these remarkable odds became his biggest challenge. He became a fierce advocate for wounded soldiers when his biggest challenge became saving himself. I laughed. I cried, I learned about my own resiliency and the need for dealing with my own trauma and how those traumas also affect my physical health. Never a soldier but I would follow this man. Remarkable story. I highly recommend it.
July 21, 2024
Tragic - a must read
Understanding the tragic finality of Mike Day’s journey makes the story even more powerful and effective. Because of their familiarity, I highlighted more passages than I care to admit. They were there with me, as well. I faced them with similar hit/miss results before my healing. I will never consider my recovery complete or my demons defeated.
Perfectly Wounded is a must-read for anyone struggling with the demons of depression and suicidal thoughts. I recommend reading Mike’s story and then considering the journey from your perspective. Where do you cross paths? How can you progress past his benchmark?
Excellent writing.
Understanding the tragic finality of Mike Day’s journey makes the story even more powerful and effective. Because of their familiarity, I highlighted more passages than I care to admit. They were there with me, as well. I faced them with similar hit/miss results before my healing. I will never consider my recovery complete or my demons defeated.
Perfectly Wounded is a must-read for anyone struggling with the demons of depression and suicidal thoughts. I recommend reading Mike’s story and then considering the journey from your perspective. Where do you cross paths? How can you progress past his benchmark?
Excellent writing.
December 3, 2025
I am very glad that I chose this book. It was audio through my library and have listed to it twice. Shot 27 times; 11 were absorbed by his body armor the other 16 hit nothing lethal. Caused a lot of damage and he actually died three times. He was lucky to have medical personnel standing at his bedside every time his heart quit. Kudos to his wife, Brenda. She was the first person ever to love and care for him. Many times I had to wipe the tears from my face. Thank God for that life changing phone call! May he continue to tell his story everyday. Hopefully with his help the suicide rate will decrease.
January 6, 2026
Even though I was aware of Mike Day's remarkable survival case, the book "Perfectly Wounded" resonated profoundly with me, leaving an indelible imprint on my thoughts long after I turned the last page.
Throughout the story, the author not only opens up in details about the brutal truth of that shootout in Iraq (April 6, 2007), when he sustained horrific injuries after being shot 27 times (!), but also reveals a deeply personal part of his youth and childhood memories that undoubtedly had a significant influence on his development as a person and as a warrior.
Mike's tribute to his fallen comrade, Clark Schwedler, at the end of the book, about rejoining on the other side, touched me deeply and almost left me in tears. It sounded prophetic. Who knew their eternal meeting would occur way too soon?
While rooted in the extraordinary world of the SEALs, its lessons on leadership, perseverance, and quiet strength transcend the battlefield this book deserves a place on the shelf of anyone who values the courage to rise above adversity in any walk of life, to cultivate unbreakable resolve.
May Senior Chief Michael Day rest in peace. His extraordinary courage, dedication, grit, and feats will never be forgotten!
My sincerest gratitude to all the veterans.
Throughout the story, the author not only opens up in details about the brutal truth of that shootout in Iraq (April 6, 2007), when he sustained horrific injuries after being shot 27 times (!), but also reveals a deeply personal part of his youth and childhood memories that undoubtedly had a significant influence on his development as a person and as a warrior.
Mike's tribute to his fallen comrade, Clark Schwedler, at the end of the book, about rejoining on the other side, touched me deeply and almost left me in tears. It sounded prophetic. Who knew their eternal meeting would occur way too soon?
While rooted in the extraordinary world of the SEALs, its lessons on leadership, perseverance, and quiet strength transcend the battlefield this book deserves a place on the shelf of anyone who values the courage to rise above adversity in any walk of life, to cultivate unbreakable resolve.
May Senior Chief Michael Day rest in peace. His extraordinary courage, dedication, grit, and feats will never be forgotten!
My sincerest gratitude to all the veterans.
December 17, 2021
Pretty amazing life. A few of the chapters were slow and didn’t really do much for the arc of the book. But man. This book has made me think about the types of people who become seals - while service of country is certainly a motivator, Mike’s book reminds me it’s also because it was the right job for their talents.
The other thing that will stick with me is the info on mental health. You hear about the veterans who are depressed, PTSD, etc but I’ve rarely heard detail behind it. Cheers to Mike for bringing that to light
The other thing that will stick with me is the info on mental health. You hear about the veterans who are depressed, PTSD, etc but I’ve rarely heard detail behind it. Cheers to Mike for bringing that to light
August 24, 2022
Perfectly Wounded by Mike Day is a poignant tale of survival against the most formidable of odds. Though I am not a war veteran, his depiction of his turbulent childhood and heroic trauma on the battlefield resonated deeply. This book is not only a depiction of past events, but a script of healing against all odds. With great insight into the impact of PTSD upon our armed forces, Day records a story that is relevant for us all. This is a memoir I will not soon forget!
I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
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