Anthony Swofford

As I child I would eavesdrop on the men in my family talk about their war experiences which would never be brought up in front of the women or children. I didn’t understand but I knew it was scary and horrible and to never ask questions from my father (Korea), grandfather (WWI), and uncles (WWII). Over my working career I hired many veterans, some simple grunts, others Special Forces, Rangers, SEALS, etc. Most were great, dependable, hard working guys, all of whom were hiding damage. Anthony Swofford’s memoir Jarhead is a brutal tale of his life and career as a Marine through the First Gulf War. Thankfully he used his writing talent to transition into successful civilian life, not without internal wounds that never heal. Not all those who serve are that lucky. Jarhead is an excellent read but not for the faint-hearted.… (more)