Patrick’s Comments (group member since Jun 13, 2011)

Patrick’s comments from the Black Hearts: One Platoon's Descent Into Madness in Iraq's Triangle of Death Reading Group group.

Hey Mr. Frederick,

I wanted to say thank you for both the investigation and writing involved with this book. I was actually assigned to read this as part of my Army ROTC class (by our commander who knew some of the characters none-the-less) prior to commissioning as a second lieutenant last month. It really illustrates some of the problems inherent to American military culture and the all-volunteer force. While my primary interest lies in medicine, I am constantly intrigued by the difficulties that my organization faces, specifically those involving mental health or public relations. The definition of a soldier has been questioned numerous times since the Vietnam War, and I think this book is a good commentary on that confusion.
On more practical terms, I am glad that, even though it is an extremely sad one, the story thoroughly outlines different leadership styles and their effects on the soldiers. It has been a valuable source of study for us to remember who we serve and how to serve.
I hope you and other readers will be happy to know that America's next cohort of military leaders are studying accounts such as these to educated ourselves, but more importantly improve upon, both the glorious traditions and the irreparable failures of the vanguard before us.