KOREAN WAR NON-FICTION

"Breakout - The Chosin Reservoir Campaign, Korea 1950" by Martin Russ

This is a moving tribute to the extraordinarily brave men of the 1st Marine Division and their epic struggle for survival against overwhelming odds at the Chosin Reservoir.

I am awarding this book our highest recommendation of 5 stars because it tells the stories of many great acts of heroism and self sacrifice that should never be forgotten. This work is well researched, organized, and well written, and I recommend it to all audiences. It would fit well into the halls of academia as required reading in either world or military history. Those at our military academies should be required to read it.

I was pleased that the book gives credit to the bravery of the Chinese soldiers that also suffered under severe conditions. I was stationed outside Fairbanks Alaska and know first hand the effects of freezing weather. It is amazing how these marines and soldiers could function in such conditions, as well as fight, as both sides did indeed do. Warning! If you are associated with the U.S. Army, you might take exception to the actions and behavior of the Army units and officers involved in the campaign, as described in this book. But, the facts are the facts. Semper Fi!

Available from:
From International
New York
and Fine Bookstores

Reviewed by Ken Smith, 5 May 1999

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