About Face

About Face is an autobiography detailing David Hackworth's extensive military career spanning from 1946 to 1971, including his service in Korea and Vietnam. The narrative follows his journey from a 15-year-old lying about his age to enlist, through his rise to become America's youngest colonel in Vietnam. The book provides accounts of Hackworth's combat experiences and his evolution as a military leader across multiple conflicts. His perspective as both a frontline soldier and commander offers insight into the tactical and strategic elements of modern warfare. Hackworth recounts the challenges of military bureaucracy and his efforts to reform training and combat doctrine, particularly during the Vietnam War. His eventual public opposition to the war's conduct led to significant personal and professional consequences. The memoir examines themes of military leadership, institutional reform, and the moral complexities of warfare through one soldier's transformation from enthusiastic warrior to outspoken critic. Through Hackworth's experiences, the book presents an unvarnished view of modern American military history.

Readers describe this as a raw, unflinching account of Hackworth's military career and the realities of the Vietnam War. Many value his direct criticism of military leadership and detailed descriptions of combat tactics and training methods. Readers appreciated: - Specific details about military operations and strategy - Candid discussion of failures in leadership - Clear explanations of military terminology - Personal growth and transformation narrative Common criticisms: - Length (875 pages feels excessive to some) - Self-aggrandizing tone in parts - Occasional repetition of stories - Some fact-checking disputes from other veterans Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (750+ ratings) Reader quote: "Hackworth shoots straight about both successes and failures, though he sometimes portrays himself as the lone voice of reason." - Amazon reviewer Several veterans commented that the book accurately captures the atmosphere and challenges of Vietnam combat operations while providing valuable lessons for military leadership.

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🎖️ David Hackworth became the youngest full colonel in Vietnam at age 40 and was the most decorated living soldier when he passed away in 2005. 📝 The book's title "About Face" refers not only to the military command but also to Hackworth's dramatic shift from being a pro-war soldier to becoming an outspoken critic of the Vietnam War. 🗣️ After writing this memoir, Hackworth became a prominent military journalist, founding defense.org and appearing regularly as a military correspondent for Newsweek and CNN. 💭 The book took over five years to write and spans nearly 900 pages, covering Hackworth's experiences from the Korean War through Vietnam. 🏅 During his military career chronicled in the book, Hackworth earned eight Purple Hearts, two Distinguished Service Crosses, ten Silver Stars, and eight Bronze Stars among numerous other decorations.