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While I’ve never been in the military, I’m always in awe of the individuals who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect their country or to fight for a cause they believe in.
In this post, I’ve listed several first-hand accounts from people who were on the front lines.
These are military memoirs from those who were in the thick of the action and trust me, they’re just as political as they are irreverent and personal.
If this sounds like something you’d like to read, please stick around, because these are my personal favorite recommendations.
Bravo Two Zero by Andy McNab
This book is an intense recount of a mission gone terribly wrong.
Andy McNab leads a team of SAS soldiers deep into enemy territory in Iraq.
The mission is to destroy Scud launchers and sever enemy communication, but everything falls apart.
Their cover is blown, and after a brutal firefight, McNab and his team have to fight their way to safety, and they face injuries, torture, and unimaginable odds.
It’s one of those stories that shows just how far human endurance can go.
It’s gritty and raw, but I couldn’t help but admire their bravery.
Civilianized: A Young Veteran’s Memoir by Michael Anthony
Michael Anthony shares his journey after returning from Iraq, where he struggles with the transition back to civilian life.
The humor and dark moments make this memoir deeply relatable and surprisingly honest.
It’s a rollercoaster of emotions as he battles his demons, from drinking and drugs to dark thoughts.
But despite everything, this memoir is ultimately about finding hope in the chaos.
I found his self-reflection to be real and poignant – this isn’t just a soldier’s story, it’s a human one.
Rejoice in Adversity, Triumph in War by Rajpal Punia
This one is packed with anecdotes from Major General Rajpal Punia’s extraordinary career in the Indian Army.
It’s a fascinating look at the ups and downs of military life, from jungle warfare to peacekeeping missions worldwide.
Punia’s story shows the intensity of a life dedicated to service, and you can feel the pride and challenges in every chapter.
It made me realize how much is sacrificed for peace, and I couldn’t help but be inspired by his resilience and leadership.
Pain Is Weakness Leaving the Body by Lyle Jeremy Rubin
This is a raw and honest account of Lyle Rubin’s time in the military and his journey to question everything he once believed.
The way he examines masculinity, war, and American values is thought-provoking and powerful.
I really appreciated how personal and reflective it felt, like he was sharing his soul with us.
It’s a story of transformation, not just from soldier to civilian, but from someone disillusioned to someone who’s found new meaning.
Dispatches by Michael Herr
Michael Herr’s Dispatches is one of the most intense and visceral books I’ve read about the Vietnam War.
His role as a war correspondent brings a gritty, almost surreal perspective on the war, filled with chaos, violence, and vivid descriptions that stick with you.
I loved how he blended his personal observations with the madness around him.
It’s almost like he’s painting a picture of war that’s both beautiful and horrifying.
Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women by Lita Thomas and Jean Marie McNamara
This memoir is a beautiful and emotional journey through the lives of Lita and her daughter Jean, both of whom served in the military.
They reveal their struggles, personal pain, and triumphs with such courage and honesty.
The way they intertwine their lives and stories shows the complexity of military service, family, and love.
It’s raw, it’s real, and I felt incredibly moved by their resilience.
The Junior Officers’ Reading Club by Patrick Hennessey
This memoir is a mix of humor and horror, with Patrick Hennessey recounting his time as a young officer in the British Army.
From his time in Sandhurst to his deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, Hennessey’s writing is witty and insightful.
I loved how he balanced the brutal realities of war with the lighter moments, like his love of books.
It’s a well-rounded look at how soldiers cope with the horrors they face, and I couldn’t help but laugh and cringe at the same time.
No More Secrets: My Part in Codebreaking at Bletchley Park and the Pentagon by Betty Webb
Betty Webb’s memoir offers an eye-opening glimpse into her life as one of the few women involved in codebreaking during WWII.
Her time at Bletchley Park and the Pentagon was crucial, and she witnessed moments in history that shaped the world.
I found her story both fascinating and inspiring – she was part of something so important yet couldn’t share it at the time.
It’s a reminder of how many untold stories there are in history, and Betty’s is one I’m glad we finally get to hear.
Return to the Reich by Eric Lichtblau
Fred Mayer’s incredible journey from a German-born Jew to an American commando is one of the most gripping WWII memoirs I’ve read.
He returns to Nazi-occupied Austria on a secret mission and poses as a Nazi officer, all while gathering crucial intelligence.
The bravery he showed is beyond words, and his escape from Nazi captivity is nothing short of miraculous.
It’s a book that made me feel both awed and humbled by the courage of the people who risked everything to stop the Nazis.
Whatever It Took by Henry Langrehr and Jim DeFelice
This memoir tells the incredible story of Henry Langrehr, a paratrooper who survived D-Day, was captured, and made an audacious escape from a Nazi work camp.
The level of determination and grit he displayed throughout his ordeal is beyond inspiring.
What struck me the most was how he survived against all odds and never gave up.
His story is one of bravery and resilience, and it’s one of the most moving accounts of WWII I’ve ever read.
What do you think – did any of these books catch your interest?
Is there a military memoir you’ve read recently, or one that really stuck with you and you think everyone should check out?
Let me know all the good stuff in the comments below!
And if you’re in the mood for even more recommendations, be sure to check out the related post before this one:
