Black Hawk down

Truly incredible.

I read this book from three perspectives. First, as a soldier, I was interested in the intricacies of the battle. The relationship between the command and control elements and the men on the ground particularly intrigued me. Second, I am a journalism student. As this account is written by a journalist with no military background, I carried a professional curiosity about the accuracy and integrity of the story. Finally, as many others have, I wanted to see how the cinematic depiction differed from the original account. My findings, on all counts, show this book worthy of its public spotlight and professional emphasis.

This book does not hesitate to recount the blunders alongside the triumphs of the operation. For this reason it is listed on many military professional development reading lists. As a student of the profession of arms, I endorse this perspective.

Journalistically, this narrative seems to fit within the bounds of ethics, professional inquiry, and a rare humility. I appreciated the author's willingness to parry accolade and redirect attention to those who truly deserve it; the soldiers, Rangers, operators, and SEALs. His actions appear to support his intentions.

Questions regarding the disparities between film and book should be placed at rest. Making concessions on backstory and character development (challenging in film) one can see the two align as closely as possible.