Gary Lewis > Recent Status Updates

So far do good. A very interesting take by the author, very much tongue-in-cheek. The author lays out a cultural/ethnic framework by which the reader might better understand his idiomatic expressions and descriptions of personages and famous moments in American history. Far from ebonics, the author has a creative imagination into which the reader is welcomed to immerse himself. Fascinating to say the least.

Back in Vietnam again, then Colonel Curry discovers that his Vietnamese counterpart is handcuffed because his Vietnamese superiors are more concerned with casualties than victories. Finding a balance between getting the job done while keeping the casualty rate down becomes a restraint that Colonel Curry is compelled to work within. By doing so he saves his counterparts command and maintains his own objectives.

So far so good. Four children later, his Korean assignment completed, now Major Curry was off to Vietnam. Already he understood the tactical and strategic missteps that should have been learned from the Korean War being repeated in Vietnam. A failure to destroy the enemy’s place of regrouping, reorganizing, recruiting etc. Failure to go for the jugular meant repeatedly fighting any enemy who can recoup.

A startling reminder of what it feels like to be the only person of color in Officer’s housing or training. General Curry recounts the relief he and his wife experienced when they were posted in other countries like Germany, only to return to he Jim Crow South and reexperience 2nd class citizenship.

Years earlier, my mother had gently, philosophically explained the racial realities of American life to us Curry children with a touch of humor. She took the high road while doing it, as she did with most things.

Conversely, Dad went for the jugular. His version was as follows: “White people make the rules,” he said, “and define mainstream values and acceptable. Codes of conduct. They worship success.

Great opening in the middle of a war zone unable to save a friend who is cutoff from the primary military corps destined for decimation but the enemy, Curry turns to his faith for answers and direction. Held in this suspense, the book turns to where and how he grew up in Liberty, Pennsylvania, digging coal out of a homemade mineshaft in his backyard to stay warm in the bitter winters of Western Pennsylvania.

Another mountain man book after the tradition of Jim Bridger, “Liver Eating” Johnson, “Grizzly” Adams and Jedidiah Smith to name a few.

So far, just what I would expect from a good mountain man yarn.

Great read. Elemental, direct and straight forward, action-oriented, Americana mythology based on the unbelievable heroics of the most decorated Major General in Marine Corps history. Two-time recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, a member of the fabled Horse Marines who made their mark during the Boxer Rebellion in China. Smedley, Chesty, Col Black, Blue-Gum Diamond, Desmond Doss: Semper Fi!!

Fascinating analysis of a huge personality disorder common to so many women in America and perpetuated by their toxic psychic imprint on their children, but especially their daughters. Actress Joan Crawford, is considered a prototype. In an autobiographical account of her abusive childhood (“Mommie Dearest”) adopted daughter, Christina Crawford, describes a troubled relationship.