Recommended Reads

Title of Book

Author

Brief Overview

Order Information/Comments

Germany

Biography

Landmark Book   

c1957

Henry Castor

General Pershing  was the first American General to charge into battle in an automobile, the first to wire radio messages and became our first to command airplanes in battle.  He was the only General of the Armies of the United States.      Before WWI broke out Pershing led an expedition into Mexico to end the exploits of Pancho Villa.  Shortly after his service was needed  to help crush the Germans and bring peace once again to Europe.

This is an easy read book with an excellent explanation of events leading to WWI and what took place in Europe during the war.  I highly recommend this book.  Ev

Title of Book

Author

Brief Overview of the Book

Order Information/Comments

WASP

WWII

Historic Novel

c2012

***MWSA Member

I highly recommend this as a Must Read book.  It carries you through a range of emotions in the lives of  four women: sadness, excitement, love, loneliness, anger, happiness, determination, and despair.   It shows a clear understanding of problems the first  women pilots faced in an all man's military world.  It also reflects  the conflict of the  traditional roles women were expected to adhere to from the standpoint of men as well as some women.  Ev

European Theater

History

c2000

David P. Colley

For an understanding of the part African American drivers and their military vehicles played in the winning  of WWII this is a must read book.  Ev

USA

History - with autobiographical inserts

c2001

Sarah Byrn Rickman

This is an informative book of both the aircraft and the women that flew them.  There are diary inserts giving the feelings and accounts of these 28 women.  It is an informative book .  A highly recommend this book.  Ev

USA European  & Asian Theaters

History - with autobiographical inserts

c1998

Major Gen. Jeanne M. Holm, USAF - Ret.

This is an outstanding book for an understanding of life in the military for women during WW II.  It is an outstanding book.  I highly recommend this is a read.  Ev

Pacific Theater

New Guinea

 For  additional, pictures and  information contact :http://www.injuryslight.com/index.html

This film was part of the Arkansas Film Festival.  It is a true story of the  exciting adventure of Col O'Sullivan when he was shot down in WWII.   It is a must see DVD.                

Pacific Theater

Pearl Harbor 

History

c1957 

Walter Lord

Walter Lord did extensive research on the Battle of Pearl Harbor.  He had 577 first hand accounts including exclusive interviews with members of the Japanese attacking force.  He uncovered facts that had never before been published. This book gives a blow by blow account of the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

This is the most comprehensive account I have read on the Battle of Pearl Harbor.  It gives details missed in most history books.  I highly recommend this book. Ev 

Pacific Theater

Pearl Harbor to Okinawa

History

Landmark Book 

c1960

Bruce Bliven, Jr.

From Pearl Harbor to Okinawa describes every major action that engaged the United States and her allies in the Pacific Theater during WWII:  Bataan; Corregidor; Midway; Guadalcanal; New Guinia; Bukrma; the Philippine Sea; Leyte; Iwo Jima; Okinawa; Hiroshima and many, many more.  It tells of the Japanese plan for conquest and the Allied counter offensive.  It is a record of men in battle on land, on sea, and in the air.  It is the story of generals, admirals, captains, seargeants and privates that won the war in the Pacific.

From Pearl Harbor to Okinawa details in brief the main battles of tbe Pacific Theater.  I highly recommend this book.  Ev

Pacific Theater

Japan

Autobiography

Landmark Book

c1943, 1953

Captain Ted W. Lawson

Ted Lawson piloted one of the planes that roared over Japan in  the Doolittle Raid over Tokyo.  The  preparations for this highly secretive raid was a daring plan just four months after Japan had bombed Pearl Harbor.  This book was originally published for adults in 1943, and became an overnight Best Seller.  Later it was made into a movie.  The book tells of Ted's crash on the Chinese coast, the loss of his leg, and his rescue. 

Lawson's story is one of those books that is hard to put down.  It is a MUST READ book.  Ev

Pacific Theater

Philippines

Biography

c. 2001

Hampton Sides

Ghost Soldiers tells of the heroic rescue by 121 Rangers of 513 POWs, captured in the Philippines and placed in a prison camp near the city of Cabanatuan.  It tells of the endurance of the prisoners (some survivors of the Bataan Death March) and their strong will to live.  The daring rescue took place with a race against time.  The Japanese army was killing all American POWs as they retreated from an advancing American Army.

Sides gives a different view of prison life.  The rescue took place toward the end of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.  It is a high interest book. Ev

Pacific Theater

Philippines, China

Autobiography

c. 2006

***MWSA Member

Billy Templeton

In Manila Bay Sunset Bill relates his story from his entry into the military to his rescue at the end of the war.   He participated in the first mass  flight of B17s over the Pacific Ocean  to his assignment at Clark Field. Shortly after his arrival the Japanese gained control of the Philippines. Bill survived the Bataan Death March, was transported on a "hell ship" to Manchuria, China where he was a slave laborer until the end of the war. 

Billy Templeton gives a glimpse into the horrific life of American  POWs captured and tortured by the Japanese in the Philippians.  Manila Bay Sunset is a heart wrenching, emotional, eye opening, must read book. Ev

Billy Templeton passed away on 22 DEC 09 (check out the TAPS page for details)

Pacific Theater

Iwo Jima  Pacific Front

History

c. 2008

***MWSA Member

Gail Chatfield

Overview: The war on the Pacific Front, and ultimately Iwo Jima, is told from the perspective of officers and enlisted men, Navy Cross and Silver Start recipients, footsloggers and cannon cockers, the severely wounded and the "just plain lucky," as well as personnel from the Air Corps, Navy, and Army who aided and benefited from the unstoppable Marines.

 

Available from:  bydammitweremarines.com  hardcover -

0r Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/097790394X

This book received the 2009 Silver Medal for Anthology from the MWSA and other national awards  This is a MUST READ book for an understanding of the events on Iwo Jima

Pacific Theater

China

History

Landmark Book

c1963

John Toland

The Flying Tigers were a volunteer group recruited from the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines.  They were fighting on the side of Chiang Kai-shek's China against Japan.  The Tigers, organized and led by Claire Lee Chennault, (known as "Old Leatherface") were a formidable force that won some of the most impressive air-victories of World War II.  They were trained by Chennault, a former USAC acrobatic flier and instructor, in unconventional air-combat tactics.  Chennault was the foremost Ace in the Chinese air force.  He had destroyed more planes in combat than any other American pilot.

Little has been reported about the war in China.  Chennault believed that a victory in China against the Japanese would be a victory for America. This is a highly recommended read. Ev

Pacific Theater

Tarawa

History

c1975

Pacific Theater

Iwo Jima

Autobiography

c. 1989

Anthony Muscarell

This is  a true story of an outstanding, courageous, underage veteran, who joined the Marine Corp at the age of 14.  It is a story of his experiences in the horrific conditions the American military faced in the Battle of Iwo Jima.  His bravery won him a Silver Star, a Purple Heart and 2 Presidential Citations.

$6.50 +$1.50 shipping = $8.00

Jack Brannon was a close friend of Anthony and  attended many of the Iwo Jima reunions with him.  Jack said "Tony passed away Jan 20, 1995, 30 days before the Iwo 50th anniversary.  He was to be the guest speaker at the Atlanta 50th".  As I read this book I felt as if I were in the battle with Anthony.  Ev

Pacific Theater

Iwo Jima

Historical Novel

c.2005

***MWSA President

Joyce Faulkner

Faulkner's book is a fictionalized account of the Battle of Suribachi.  It is  based on her  father's real life experiences in the battle for Iwo Jima.  It makes the difficult struggle come alive as the soldiers on both sides  fight for control of this strategic island.

JoyceKFaulkner@gmail.com Joyce's book can be ordered online, or if you want a signed copy or you can order it from her at the above email address. It is also available at www.amazon.com 

Winner of the Gold Medal for Historical Fiction

In the Shadow of Suribachi won the 2006 Gold Medal Award from the Military Writers Society of America.  This book makes you feel as if you were part of the battle in Iwo Jima.   This is a MUST READ book.  Ev

Pacific Theater

Japan

Autobiography

Best seller in France

c1972

Ryuji Nagatsuka

This is the first published inside story of the suicide squads of WWII.  Nagatsuka volunteered to become a Kamikaze.  It tells of his training, his feelings, his family and gives insight into the WWII culture of Japan.

I Was a Kamikaze gives insight into why so many young Japanese  men were willing to commit suicide as Kamikaze pilots.  It is informative of the Japanese mindset and customs as they relate to WWII combat. This book book gives insight into why many Japanese men volunteered to become Kamikazes.  A recommended Read. Ev

Pacific Theater

Biography

c2010

***MWSA Secretary

Pat McGrath Avery

This is a unique story of an all girl band that performed for our troops on a Pacific Tour with the U.S.O.  It tells a little bit about each performer, their many experiences and their bravery as they headed into the war zones. 

Few books are written about womens' contributions to the morale of the military in WWII.  It was interesting to read about the lives and bravery of these young women.   I highly recommend The Sharon Rogers Band.
Ev

Pacific  Theater

Guam, Japan

Biography

c. 2005

Ron Greer & Mike Wicks

S/Sgt Herbert Greer passed away in 2008.  He had kept a daily diary of flights from Guam for the missions over Japan.  Ron wrote the book from his father's diary accounts and his recollections of events.    It is a fascinating book to read.  Ev

Pacific Theater

Japan

Autobiography

c1997

Maj. Gen. Charles W. Sweeney

Maj. gen. Sweeney was a part of both the Nagasaki and Hiroshima bombing missions.  His book tells about the training, the problems and the secrecy that surrounded the use of the atomic bombs in Japan.

War's End was written to preserve the facts of America's Last Atomic Mission.  It gives insight into the rational that called for the use of the Atomic Bomb.  It is well worth reading.  Ev

Europe and Pacific Theaters

History

 Landmark Book 

c1963

Commander Edmund L Castillo

The Seabees played an important role in winning World War II.  The Seabees are a part of the Navy.  MacArthur remarked "The only trouble with your Seabees is that I do not have enough of them."

Out of Print but may be available at www.amazon.com

This is an easy read, informative account of the training and operations of the Seabees in World War II and their work in peace times after the war. Ev

Europe and Pacific Theaters

Photographs

c1964

Europe and Pacific Theaters

History

 Landmark Book

c1961

Robert Loomis

This book features the Mustangs, Thunderbolts, Hellcats and Corsairs and how the pilots  attacked the enemy, escorted bombers, protected carriers and land bases.  It recounts the air battles of some of the most famous pilots.

This is an easy quick read book loaded with researched information about the famous American pilots of WWII.  It is a recommended read.  Ev

Pacific Theater

Autobiography

c1993

Sgt. Fred T. Klemm

When Fred Klemm received his draft notice in 1943 he joined the Marine Corp.  This book is written from the letters he sent home during WWII and the Korean War.   His daughter, Florence, a librarian at the Air Force Academy, encouraged her dad to write the book.  She added notes and the bibliography.  Although Fred was assigned as a carpenter, he ended up as a truck driver during WWII.

$10.00 + $2.00 shipping

The Klemm family were personal friends.  The book is written from a personal viewpoint  and is interspersed with humor.   All proceeds go toward scholarships for the handicapped (blind, deaf)  for students at Florida Christian College.  Both Fred Klemm and Florence are deceased.  I highly recommend this book.  Ev

Europe Theater

France 

History

Landmark Book

c1956 

Bruce Bliven, Jr

This is an Easy Read account of the events of D -Day. Ev

European & Pacific Theaters - Korea

Ex-Prisoners of War - Stories of Faith, Integrity and Courage

Non-fiction

River Road Press

c. 2006

***MWSA

Compiled by Pat McGrath Avery and Christopher G. Avery

Our nation owes a great debt to the brave young men and women that lost their freedom to help keep our nation and the world free of tyranny.  Some suffered inhumane treatment for a few months and others survived years of malnutrition and torture.  Some by the Grace of God survived to return home to their loved ones.  Many of their closest friends were not so fortunate.  Most of these stories take place in the European Theater of WWII, a few from the Pacific Theater or the Korean War.  It is hard to understand the atrocities that one man inflicts on another

Published by River Road Press, 18942 State Hwy 13, Suite "F, Box 115; Branson West, MO 65737

This collection of first hand accounts written by ex-POWs gives insight to the faith, integrity and courage faced by our soldiers in captivity.  I highly recommend this book.  Ev

America's Youngest Women Warriors

Non-fiction

Wise Publications

c2011

Edited by Dorothy Hinson Brandt

"It is well known that throughout the history of our country young men have "adjusted" their birth dates in order to serve in the armed forces of the United States before attaining legal age.  What is less well known is that many young women also chose to serve their country before they could legally do so.  This book remedies that situation by telling the stories of some of these young women.  Dorothy Hinson Brandt, an underage veteran, has done a magnificent job of editing the stories into a very interesting, readable book.  It should be on the bookshelf of everyone who is interested in the contributions of women to our country, especially,  those interested in military history"  Mary D Jackson Co-editor, America's Youngest Warriors

Copies may be purchased from the publisher for $23.00 post paid. "Wise Publications Printing - Custom Book Manufacturing - 809 East Napoleon; Sulphur, LA 70663 - 337.527.8308

On Page 75 you can read the story of Elizabeth "Betty" Swindle Smith, honorary AR MVPA member. This is a "must read"  book.  Ev

Title of Book

Author

Brief Overview of the Book

Order Information/Comments

**The War in Korea 1950-1953

Landmarck Book

c1963

Robert Leckie

In 1950 Communist North Korea attacked the Republic of South Korea, surprising and over-  whelming the South Koreans. The United Nations  Security Council pledged immediate troops and supplies to help , acting as a global "police force" to fight against this blatant aggression.  The U.S. along with other nations came to the aid of South Korea.  A 3 year battle ensued before negotiations brought about an end to the war.  This book describes the major battles in Korea.

This is an easy quick read book loaded with researched information about the Korean War  It is a recommended read.  Ev

From Taejon to Manpo

Personal Accounts

***MWSA Secretary and President

Pat McGraph Avery and Joyce Faulkner

Sunchon Tunnel Massacre Survivors tells the story of an event that is not well known by the American public.  The story is told by the survivors, giving their personal experiences, as they managed to flee from atrocities and death.  Pat Avery and Joyce Faulkner have fully researched and documented the events that took place in the early days of the Korean War (1950s) The survivors of the Tiger Death March tell their recollections of the Sunchon and Kujang Tunnel massacres and how they escaped the fate  of most of their fellow soldiers.  It was years later, after returning home that many of the survivors met in Branson, seeing each other for the 1st time after the Korean War.  It was here where they shared their experiences that became the basis of this book.

This is a MUST READ book.  I have met a number of the survivors.  They rode in our military vehicles in the Branson Veteran's Day Parade.  These men are true American heroes and their stories of survival are incredible .Ev

Incheon

Seoul

N. Korea

Pusan

Autobiography

c1993

Sgt. Fred T. Klemm

Fred Klemm returned home to civilian life.  In 1950 he joined the Reserves and in August was called to active duty in Korea.  This book is written from the letters Fred sent home during WWII and the Korean War.   His daughter, Florence, a librarian at the Air Force Academy, encouraged her dad to write the book.  She added notes and the bibliography.  Although Fred was assigned as a carpenter, he ended up as a truck driver during WWII.

$10.00 + $2.00 shipping

The Klemm family were close friends.  The book is written from a personal viewpoint  and is interspersed with humor.   All proceeds go toward scholarships for the handicapped (blind, deaf)  for students at Florida Christian College.  Both Fred Klemm and Florence are deceased.  I highly recommend this book.  Ev

Pusan

Chosin Reservoir

Kids World Series

c2003

*MWSA secretary

Letters from Korea are part of a "Kids World Series"  It features a boy, George, visiting his grandmother, Alison.  She tells him about a time in her youth when her dad and uncles were in the Korean War.  The story of the war is told through letters that she received from them.  She and George read the letters and look at photographs together.

This is a recommended read for children

BEAR - Flight to Liberty

Historical Fiction Novel

 c. Jul 2007

***MWSA member

Miguel Vargas-Caba

"BEAR - Flight to Liberty" is an Historical Fiction novel set during the Cold War. It's about the planning and accomplishment of the defection of the crew of "Red 67", a Tupolev TU-95RTs "Bear D" long-range reconnaissance airplane of the Soviet Naval Aviation, from Kuzomen airbase, Kola Peninsula, USSR, to Goose Bay airbase, Canada, on August 4th, 1976.

http://www.amazon.com/Bear-Flight-Liberty-Miguel-Vargas-Caba/dp/0595425585/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1298558285&sr=8-1

"Award-winner at the Branson Stars and Flags Book Awards - 2010"
“BEAR  is the product of Vargas-Caba’s meticulous research into the Soviet Armed Forces and provides an authenticity few books on the subject can match. His careful marshalling of real-world facts to develop his work of fiction makes BEAR an exciting read for anyone who wants to remember how much was at stake during the Cold War.”— Nate Braden, co-author of The Last Sentry

Title of Book

Author

Brief Overview of the Book

Order Information/Comments

Life Interrupted by War

Autobiography of Thomas's 4 years in Viet Nam

c Oct 2009

***MWSA member

Thomas Van Hees

In 1964, at the age of seventeen, Tom van Hees boarded a plane in San Diego, where he would enter a world he knew nothing about - the United States Marine Corps.  What followed over the next four years would change his life forever.

From the harsh reality of boot camp to carrying the M60 machine gun in Vietnam, he was wounded twice, saw many of his friends die, and survive his time in war.  The Marines of 1st Platoon "Lima" Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines and the exprit de corps would be the bond these men held for  each other forever. Semper Fi, forever faithful was all.

This book can be ordered online from Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Publish America but I would recommend ordering it from    the author ( bounderpair@yahoo.com) because of the high online price. This book is also available at the National Marine Corps Museum in Quanico,VA, Veterans Memorial Museum, Branson, MO., Iwo Jima Memorial Museum, Harlingen, TX.

Disability Compensation - The Veterans Guide

How to/ Reference Self Help

c Apr 2010

***MWSA  Member

Thomas van Hees

In nearly four years, Thomas van Hees filed fifteen claims for his service-connected  disabilities. Five claims were denied, and three of these five were denied more than twice. In his quest to receive compensation, he became a veterans advocate helping other veterans seek compensation for their service-connected injuries

.In this four years, he learned how to negotiate the VA's claim filing process. Thomas obtained valuable information and knowledge of every aspect of the claim-filing ordeal and of the appeals process. This "down and dirty approach" will guide the veteran through the claim-filing process without the veteran having to wade through useless information, case files and the history of how veterans from the past received medical care

From 'Nam With Love-An Infantry Soldier's Vietnam

Autobiograph of Lloyd's year in Vietnam - chronicled in poetry and illustrations

c2006

***MWSA Member

Lloyd A. King

In From 'Nam With Love Lloyd King skillfully weaves his experiences in Viet Nam through poetry and illustrations.  He expertly portrays the strong emotions  war evokes, the brutality and futility soldiers face on a daily basis on the battlefield. 

For a  quick read book, From 'Nam With Love, carries a deep meaning and  message to the reader.  It is well worth reading.   as the Gold Medal 23006 Best Book of Poetry from the Military Writers Society of America portrays.  I highly recommend it.  Ev

1965-1973

Hanoi

Hanoi Hilton -Hoa Lo Prison

Autobiography of Howard and Phyllis during Howard's years as a POW

c1973

Howard & Phyllis Rutledge and Mel & Lyla White

Hanoi Hilton describes the daily routine, the torture, inhumane treatment,  inadequate diet, unhealthy conditions  and cruelty of the prison guards and officials.  POWs were not seldom allowed  to speak with each other so they devised a system of tapping out messages to make communication possible. Prisoners that refused to condemn America's position in the war were tortured and placed in solitary confinement for lengthy periods.

This is a book that is hard to put down.  It is a fairly quick read book.. During Howard's interment he gradually developed a deep faith and reliance on God.  This helped sustain him through the many years that he was held prisoner.  I highly recommend this book.  Ev

1967-1973

Hanoi

Surviving Hell - A POWs Journey

Autobiography of Leo's years held as a POW in the Hanoi Hilton

c2008

Leo Thorsness

Surviving Hell is a riveting story of one man's survival of the brutal, inhumane treatment that was intended to break his spirit.  Family, Friends and a renewal of faith helped Leo weather the torture and survive with his honor in tact. 

I highly recommend this book for anyone that  feels their problems are insurmountable.  Reading about the circumstances Leo had to overcome, makes most people's problems seem minor.  This is a must read book.  Ev

Hanoi - Jim Stockdale

California - Sybil Stockdale

In Love and War

Autobiography of Jim and Sybil Stockdale's lives before, during and after his capture in North Viet Nam including his years as a POW

c1984

Jim & Sybil Stockdale

In Love and War is a moving story of the long struggles of Jim's wife, Sybil,  to bring attention to the American public of the plight of the POWs held in Hanoi and to petition for their release.  It chronicles the  torture and inhumane treatment of those held, and the additional harshness accorded to officers.  The earliest  prisoners developed a  unique system of communication to counter the solitary confinement and inform new POWs brought to the Hanoi Hilton.  It helped them to learn the names of all prisoners brought in and to develop a bond that continued long after their release.

Thumbs Up:  This  is a must read book.  One chapter is written by Jim in prison, the next by Sybil at her home in California.  It describes not only the hardships of the POWs but the personal struggles of the wives and families.  The years of waiting and the uncertainty of the future for both the prisoners and for their families. Ev

An Dinh

Coyote Jack - Drawing Meaning from Life and Vietnam

A Memoir (Autobiography)

c1966

***MWSA Member

Jack Lyndon Thomas

Coyote Jack is a book of prose, poetry and photos that depict one soldiers experiences in Viet Nam and the psychological effects of his war.  Jack served on a Mobile Advisory Team (MAT) that advised the South Vietnamese.  Through Jack's book you vicariously experience the reality of combat, the search for meaning and the affect it has on life after war.  He discusses his dysfunctional family during his "growing up" years, and how this also affected his post war years.  Jack has also published a book of poetry, Whirling Fire, based upon his Vietnam experiences.

I met Jack at the Branson Veterans' Day Parade .  He was one of the veterans that rode in the AR MVPA jeeps.  His experiences in life are varied and complex.  His service to our country is commendable.  Coyote Jack gives insight into his part of the Viet Nam War. This is a recommended read.  Ev

Wounded in Action

Autobiography

***MWSA Member

c2010

Based on actual events and set against the historical backdrop of America’s longest war, Wounded in Action tells the compelling and gripping story of courage and determination of one of the Army’s most elite combat soldiers as he faces the realities of surviving near-fatal wounds and struggles to overcome the life-changing devastation inflicted on his mind and body from the explosion of an enemy landmine
 

Many veterans of Vietnam who have read my book have said that I “nailed it’ in telling what it was like serving in that controversial war. Others have said that it is a must read for anyone who suffered wounds during the war. 

Excerpt from a letter to the author: “The second part of your book that focused on the recovery and rehab process was very powerful and made me more fully appreciate the extraordinary challenges you faced at that time. The detailed look at having to relearn many of the basic functions so many of us take for granted was very thought provoking and should be read by everyone. It is clear that the same determination to get through the tough spots in the war served you well in this second and longer battle. That same drive and determination served you well in your subsequent civilian career. Looking back, you have a lot to be proud of.”

Keeping the Promise

Non Fiction Memoir

 ***MWSA Member

c2010

Captured - A mother's true story of her family's imprisonment by the Vietcong

Autobiography

c1977

Carolyn Paine Miller

Out of Print, but may be obtained at  www.amazon.com 

Although not a military book, the situation was brought about by the war in Viet Nam.  The book is a high interest, fast read book.  I highly recommend it for a better understanding of the situation as US troops were withdrawn from Viet Nam.  Ev

Hanoi -

Autobiography

c1973 Reprint 1992

This is another excellent book on the plight of the POWs in Viet Nam.  This is a highly recommended book.

Title of Book

Author

Brief Overview of the Book

Order Information/Comments

Afghanistan

Lone Survivor

Autobiography

c2007

Lone Survivor is an eyewitness account of Operation Redwing and the lost heroes of Seal Team 10.  The mission was to capture of kill a well known al Qaeda leader.  Marcus Luttrell was the only Navy SEAL that survived a ferocious attack  by the well armed al Qaeda, while attempting this mission.  He was seriously wounded but managed to fight off  6 al Qaeda assassins.  He managed to make it to a Pashtun village.  The man that saved his life risked everything to protect him from Taliban killers.  After returning home to a warm welcome from his Texas family and friends,

This was one of those books, from beginning to end I couldn't put down.  Thank God for the Navy SEALs and the many brave veteran's that have put security of country before security for self.  Everyone should read of the courage and selflessness  of these brave men.  This is one of those MUST READ books.  Ev

War on Terrorism

Saudi Arabia

Inside the Kingdom   - My Life in Saudi Arabia

Autobiography

c2004   postscript 2005

Carmen Bin Ladin

Inside the Kingdom gives a personal look at Carmen's life as the wife of Osama's brother.    It deals with the oppressive life of women in Saudi Arabia.  She fled to save her children from a life without freedom to determine their destiny.  She fled so her children wouldn't be taken from her.  It tells of  hypocrisy and fear generated by the system of fundamentalist religious rule in Saudi Arabia.

This is a book that is hard to put down.  It's chilling story includes the evil plans that brought down the twin towers in New York, killing so many innocent people.  This is a must read to become aware of the power of the terrorist that are making efforts to destroy our freedoms.  Ev

A Prayer Journey Through Deployment

Religious

 copyright 2010

***MWSA Member

Donna Mull is a brilliant writer; but, that alone would not have made "Prayer Journey Through Deployment," the gem that it is.  What makes this collection of prayers, commentaries and trenchant insights so special is that it flows from a powerful force of inspiration, faith, passion and pain that cause it to soar. Written primarily for the soldier deployed during war and his or her loved ones, it achieves, perhaps even unwittingly by Ms. Mull, a universality that makes it a valued guide to life for young and old, soldier and civilian, believer and non-believer, alike. This intricate interweave of biblical passages with thematic prayer, poetry and prose is a work of art. -  Jim Greenwald    Lead Reviewer, MWSA

Desert Storm

Autobiography

copyright 1992

Written with          Peter Petre

This is a Must Read book for an understanding of  the problems that have kept our military busy in the Middle Eastern Gulf Wars.  Ev

Title of Book

Author

Order Information/Comments

WASP

WWII

Historic Novel

c2012

***MWSA Member

 r

"Windshift" is the story of  four women that served in the Women Air Force Service Pilots  (WASP) during WWII.  Each woman has a unique personality.     They represent the thoughts, feelings, fears and sexual discrimination felt by many of the women that joined in this historic first for women. They portrayed the  bravery, determination and self sacrifice in serving their country.  In spite of all they did they were never accorded the honor and respect they deserved.  The military considered them civilian and denied them pay and benefits.  They were not even afforded the burial insurance although 38 died on active duty. 

I highly recommend this as a Must Read book.  It carries you through a range of emotions in the lives of  four women: sadness, excitement, love, loneliness, anger, happiness, determination, and despair.   It shows a clear understanding of problems the first  women pilots faced in an all man's military world.  It also reflects  the conflict of the  traditional roles women were expected to adhere to from the standpoint of men as well as some women..

WWII

Historic Novel

c1943

This is a recommended read for young people.  Ev

Listening to Ghosts

Memoir

©2010

***MWSA Member

Bob Stockton

“Listening To Ghosts” (326 pages with chapter photos), the memoir of retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Bob Stockton’s unique career in the United States Navy of the mid-twentieth century, takes the reader back to a time before the Navy became a vehicle for social engineering, chronicling the author’s adventures - and misadventures - in frank, candid and politically incorrect language.

 

The book is available on line at Amazon.com, Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble.com Books-a-million.com  and the publisher's site, Xlibris.com   I also have soft back copies that I will autograph and mail for $26. The postage is included in the price.

"Listening To Ghosts" has received two  5 star reviews that are posted on Amazon.com and a glowing review from MWSA by Bob Flournoy

Earning My Wings - Adventures of an Air Force Wife

Memoir

c2010

***MWSA Member

Shirley Forgan

My memoir Earning My Wings-Adventures of an Air Force Wife published by Tate Publishing & Enterprises was released on July 27, 2010.  The book is about my husband’s thirty-four-year air force career—however, it’s from my perspective—I call it my “war stories” not his!  At the age of twenty-three, I married an air force jet fighter pilot and took off on a globetrotting adventure from being a first lieutenant’s girlfriend to general’s wife while raising two spirited boys and fulfilling all the duties of a military wife with a sense of humor and dedication.  There are happy occasions, exciting travels, sad times, hilarious incidents, proud moments, and lifelong friends to be made.  Military wives and mothers can relate to my stories and recall their own special memories

The book can be purchased by contacting any of the following: sforgan@sbcglobal.net websites:http://shirleydobbinsforgan.tatepublishing. net; www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore;www.Amazon.com

From self-entitled “pool floozy” to general’s wife, Shirley Forgan has written a book that serves well as an operator’s manual for wives married to those who serve in all ranks, be they military, law enforcement, fire fighters, and yes, even corporate spouses. These women are warriors behind the warriors while realizing they are many times second to the job. There are tears and cheers in this well written, sometimes serious, often hilarious book. Side note: How did quick-witted Shirley respond when she showed up at an official function with mis-matched shoes?”  REVIEW:  By Mark Berent, Retired Air Force -  Author of Five Books on the Vietnam Air and Ground War.

*My Air Force Mom

Fiction - Children's Book

c2007

***MWSA Member

Mary Lee

A winner in the Children's Fiction Category of the 73rd Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition, 'My Air Force Mom' is unique. This picture book explores customs and courtesies of military culture through a child's eyes.  Author Mary Lee takes your child along with her fictional character Susie on a journey of discovery.  From military uniforms through a military child's 'rite of passage' full circle to Susie's development of a sense of pride and patriotism in our country.  'My Air Force Mom' shows children that the military offers careers to women as well as men.  It gives military moms and dads a book to help their young children begin to understand military life.  'My Air Force Mom' gives civilian parents a tool to explain mysteries of military life to their children.  Answers to a child's curiosity are found in 'My Air Force Mom.'

www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-6024734-1-6;   www.Amazon.com'; www.Barnes&Noble.com;  www.Booksamillion.com ;www.facebook.com/AuthorMaryLee

For those of us without a military background, this book is a good introduction to military life for mothers and their children. Told from the point of view of Susie, an eight year old with a mother in the Air Force, it offers a fun look at the military. Mary Lee also provides an interesting look at every day life in the military. The artwork included is a good fit to the story; a bonus is the audio book download. I highly recommend this book to anyone with children." by L. Smith from Spartanburg, SC

WWII

History

c. 2008

***MWSA Member

Gail Chatfield

Available from:  bydammitweremarines.com  hardcover -

0r Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/097790394X

This book received the 2009 Silver Medal for Anthology from the MWSA and other national awards  This is a MUST READ book for an understanding of the events on Iwo Jima 

WWII to Present

U.S. Military Vehicles - Field Guide

Reference

c2005

David Doyle

This is a handy book to help determine the price according to rarity and condition.  In my library it is a much used book.  Ev

Title of Book

Author

Brief Overview of the Book

Order Information/Comments

Non-fiction

c2010

***MWSA  authors

"An inspiring collection of stories by women who followed their own path reminding us of what we women can be." Gail Chatfield, award-winning author of We're Marines, by Dammit!