Platoon Leader: A Memoir of Command in Combat

James R. McDonough

Dec 2007 · Sold by Presidio Press

About this ebook

A remarkable memoir of small-unit leadership and the coming of age of a young soldier in combat in Vietnam.'

"Using a lean style and a sense of pacing drawn from the tautest of novels, McDonough has produced a gripping account of his first command, a U.S. platoon taking part in the 'strategic hamlet' program. . . . Rather than present a potpourri of combat yarns. . . McDonough has focused a seasoned storyteller’s eye on the details, people, and incidents that best communicate a visceral feel of command under fire. . . . For the author’s honesty and literary craftsmanship, Platoon Leader seems destined to be read for a long time by second lieutenants trying to prepare for the future, veterans trying to remember the past, and civilians trying to understand what the profession of arms is all about.”–Army Times

Ratings and reviews

A pretty decent account of a 2nd Lieutenant's experiences as a infantry platoon leader fresh out of West Point, and fresh to Vietnam, leadership in combat, and combat, itself. An insight into one officer's experience in a country and conflict that some of us will never fully experience nor understand. Possibly none of us. Sometimes preachy, but always engaging, and ultimately as honest to the reader as the author is to himself.

Great book which I have enjoyed reading many times. I also had the pleasure of serving with Phil Tack (making his appearance in the book as "Phil Nail") late in his career in the mid 1980's. Mr. McDonough does a great job describing Tack but I think an entirely new book would have to be written to contain all of that personality. He was a great NCO and I'm sure serving under McDonough in Vietnam had a great deal to do with that.

Incredible true stories of everyday heroism displayed by those who shoulder the burden of our freedom. Outstanding book, very well articulated, you will feel as if you were in Vietnam with these men.

About the author

Col. James McDonough, USA (Ret.), graduated from West Point and served in Vietnam as an infantry platoon leader in the legendary 173d Airborne Brigade. A military theorist who has helped shape the post-Cold War army’s thinking, he is also the author of The Defense of Hill 781 and The Limits of Glory. Now retired from active duty, McDonough lives with his family in Tallahassee, Florida.