The best book I’ve read recently is on the Chosin Reservoir campaign. I was assigned a book discussion, but really got involved with the book Colder Than Hell. It serves as the personal recollections of Lieutenant Joseph R. Owen and the rifle company he led in the mid fifties, Baker-One-Seven. The lessons presented in the book deal specifically with the role of the infantryman in war. I cannot even imagine the frigid temperatures that were encountered by the Marines. The documentary, Chosin, would be another great resource if you’re interested in the topic.
Some of the depictions are extremely graphic and serve as an incredible account of how these Marines fought both the North Koreans and the Chinese. Most of the book helps to play out the many moral dilemmas encountered and leaves the resolution to the reader to determine what is ultimately right or wrong. However, the reader certainly walks away with a unique perspective– one that I think ultimately agrees with Lt. Owen’s actions in the many difficult decisions he had to face. Ultimately inspiring are the actions of the senior officers who shape Owen’s ability to stay strong for his men in spite of great fear and danger. Reading about the Chinese immigrated American Lieutenant Lee, who Owen served with, was amazing– he walked around in bright pink at one point so that the Marine Pilots overhead could see the front of the lines and avoid bombing friendly troops. Even while making himself an incredibly easy target, it was ultimately inspiring to his Marines to fight even harder. Lt. Lee also steals an Army Ambulance to get to the front lines and back to his Marines after he is forced to a Battalion Aid Station. Actions like this remind me that pain is weakness leaving the body– and we can always be stronger to help others when they need it most.
All in all, I can’t recommend this book strongly enough. Please do yourself a favor and go pick up a copy! You won’t regret it.
