As You Were

Main Themes and Topics

"As You Were" by Christian Davenport delves deeply into the profound personal and societal impact of the war on terror, focusing particularly on the experiences of members of the Virginia National Guard. The narrative provides insight into the lives of citizen-soldiers, highlighting the myriad of challenges they face upon returning to civilian life. These include family dynamics, employment struggles, and dealing with health issues post-combat. Davenport's work emphasizes the stark contrast between the sacrifice of the few who serve and the indifference or lack of understanding from the broader society that remains largely untouched by the war.

Writing Style and Tone

Davenport employs a poignant and evocative writing style that captures the emotional weight of his subjects' experiences. The tone is one of both empathy and urgency, effectively conveying the critical issues faced by soldiers and their families. By focusing on personal stories, Davenport brings a human face to the statistics, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those serving in the National Guard. His narrative approach is not just an exploration of the soldiers' experiences in combat, but more importantly, the struggles on the home front and the challenging reintegration into everyday life.

Criticism

While "As You Were" has been lauded for its emotional depth and insightful exploration of post-combat challenges, some readers may find the narrative occasionally overwhelming due to its emotional intensity. The focus on personal stories, while powerful, may leave readers desiring a broader critique of the political and systemic factors influencing these personal struggles. Additionally, some may feel the book does not offer enough solutions or hope for resolving the issues it raises.

Brief Summary

"As You Were" provides a compelling exploration of the personal toll of the war on terror through the eyes of five diverse members of the Virginia National Guard. Christian Davenport offers a narrative that is not centered on the battlefield but rather on the intricate challenges faced by soldiers when they return home. The book sheds light on the profound disconnect between the sacrifices made by these soldiers and the perception and support from the society they return to. It serves as both a tribute to these individuals and a call to action to bridge the gap in understanding and support.