Grunts

Inside the American Infantry Combat Experience, World War II through Iraq

By: John C. McManus

Narrated by: Joe Barrett

Length: 18 hrs and 25 mins

Publisher's summary

From the acclaimed author of The Dead and Those About to Die comes a sweeping narrative of six decades of combat, and an eye-opening account of the evolution of the American infantry. From the beaches of Normandy and the South Pacific Islands to the deserts of the Middle East, the American soldier has been the most indispensable - and most overlooked - factor in wartime victory. In Grunts, renowned historian John C. McManus examines 10 critical battles - from Hitler's massive assault on US soldiers at the Battle of the Bulge to counterinsurgency combat in Iraq - where the skills and courage of American troops proved the crucial difference between victory and defeat. Based on years of research and interviews with veterans, this powerful history reveals the ugly face of war in a way few books have and demonstrates the fundamental, and too often forgotten, importance of the human element in serving and protecting the nation.

©2018 John C. McManus (P)2018 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Riveting misses some other contributors...

Really good and gives credit where it belongs. Seems like only about 12% of the total force ever sees combat, but plays an integral part of support for the Grunt. Could have acknowledged this better. The Grunt does not go alone, but DOES DO THE HEAVY LIFTING. Also could have done a better job in the analysis of the Insurgency in Iraq that was completely missed and finally brought to the forefront by leaders like Petraeus and others. Of course lets not forget that the whole basis for the Iraq invasion was bogus and the Politicians as usual have much wasted noble blood on their hands. A Marine

very informative and interesting

This book is extremely interesting and has valuable insights into the infantry world. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to be in a position of comand in the military even if you aren't infantry or if you are interested in US military history.

Must Read for Infantry Leaders

Truly a modern equivalent to “The Face of Battle” by John Keegan. Outlines the visceral, on the ground experiences of those who’ve fought on the modern battlefield.

Awesome

This book gives an in depth detail of the combat soldiers day to day operations. A must read for those interested in military history. McManus does not let you down.

Unfiltered First Hand Look at War

Excellent book that does not merely give logistical and economic analysis of war but actually uses soldiers first hand accounts throughout. Bloody and shocking, it shows as best a book can the true sacrifices made by infantrymen. It also provides analysis of broader strategic points in conflicts and why they resulted in the manner they did. Thorough and revealing.

Lacks Nuance

Narration was adequate, and the content thought provoking.

While relevant, the arguments made in support of landforces and their relevance lack nuance. Of course, in a resource unconstrained environment, no nation would want less land forces - specifically Infantry "Grunts." However, limitless resources are not, nor have never been reality.

With increased urbanization and military shifts towards large-scale combat operations, perhaps we should consider land force structures based on the unique requirements of the mega city.