Black Hawk Down MTI

Rating:
Summary: FINALLY A BOOK THAT TELLS US WHAT REALLY HAPPENED
Review: I never really understood everything that went on in Somalia or why we were over there, even though my husband had been one of the soldiers to go and one of the soldiers who died there. Reading the book, I finally understand some of what went on. Also, many questions I've had for years have been answered......thanks, Mr. Bowden.

Rating:
Summary: A perfect book for fast paced, play by play story of war.
Review: I am a crew chief on a U.S. Army helicopter who seved in the gulf war. Reading this outstanding book drives home the chaos that can so quickly occur during war. Mark Bowden does a terrific job.

Rating:
Summary: A must read for all "hawks" who forget the human cost of war
Review: As a US Army UH-60A Blackhawk aviator, as well as a former ROTC student of the commander of the "Lost Convoy", this account hit me square between the eyes. I did not put this book down for the 21 hours it took me to fully digest it. . .cover to cover. The author fully succeeded in getting into the minds and emotions of all involved, from the commanders in the rear, to the aviators and flight crewmembers in the air, to the Rangers and Delta Force folks in the thick of it. As I read the account, I could not help but feel my blood boil for those in power who placed these sons and daughters of America in such a predicament. Although the mission was indeed a success, was the cost really worth it? For the US casualties, which not only included the dead and wounded, but also the military careers of good officers and Non-commissioned officers, was the benefit really worth the cost? Again, this book is something that all those in leadership positions and their staffers need to fully digest before getting on the bandwagon of "saber rattling" and sending America's sons and daughters into harm's way.

Rating:
Summary: An Incredible Account
Review: If you remember how you felt sitting through the first 30 minutes of "Saving Private Ryan," that is how you will feel reading this account of the fighting in Mogadishu. This is a phenomenal book that is required reading for anyone interested in the reality of combat. Congratulations to Bowden on bringing us this account.

Rating:
Summary: A Must Read for SOF
Review: Excellent book! Mr Bowden captures the character and professionalism of the Special Operations Forces. RLTW

Rating:
Summary: Awesome.
Review: An amazing story brought to life by the author. Not for those with a weak stomach. Clearly explains the process that led to the decision to capture warlord Aidid without sounding too political. One suggestion: as you're reading, jot down all the soldiers names on a 3x5 because it's too hard to remember everyone's role throughout the story.

Rating:
Summary: Bowden should get the Pulitzer for this one
Review: Great piece of journalism. It not only recreates every aspect of the battle but it also gives great insight into the warrior culture. The military is the most misuderstood segment of American society. Read this book and understand how a soldier thinks and feels and why we do what we do...RangersLeadTheWay

Rating:
Summary: Good
Review: Mr. Bowden Good book, but why is it on the internet in full text? You will be loosing money. G.Duncan

Rating:
Summary: Facinating and eye opening drama
Review: An incredible event that really took place !! Very well written bringing in the perspective of so many individuals to give well developed understanding of the event. I'm not a reader of war stories but I found this one truly amazing. I couldn't put it down. The author has done a wonderful job of pulling all of the individual accounts into one complete story.

Rating:
Summary: Took the day off work to finish it!
Review: This is an incredible account worthy of the amazing men it chronicals. I wish that every voting-age American would read this book. I really appreciated the way Bowden went the extra mile in detailing his sources and research methods, including other writings on the subject. Wake up America - this is a look at the future of the squandering of military power on feel-good conflicts rather the defense of the US and its interests by bumbling politicians.