Combat Marine at Seventeen

Combat Marine at Seventeen

by Don Jardine

Popularity

4.62 / 5

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Combat Marine at Seventeen

Combat Marine at Seventeen by Don Jardine

Details

War:

World War II

Perspective:

Infantry

Military Unit:

US Marine Corps

True Story:

Yes

Biography:

Yes

Region:

Pacific

Published Date:

2013

ISBN13:

9780989674508

Description

Brief Summary

"Combat Marine at Seventeen" by Don Jardine provides an immersive insight into the life of a young Marine during World War II. The book does not merely list historical events; instead, it navigates the reader through the dense jungles and sugar cane fields of Saipan, putting them in the shoes of a seventeen-year-old soldier. Before delving into the intense scenes of combat, the book paints a vivid picture of Jardine's early life in Idaho, offering a backdrop of a time marked by freedom and exploration that is starkly contrasted by the harrowing experiences of war. The memoir also follows Jardine's life post-war, reflecting on the trajectory from a young combatant to a mature adult, capturing the wisdom accrued from his multifaceted life experiences.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes of "Combat Marine at Seventeen" is the rapid transition from youth to adulthood precipitated by the demands of war. Jardine's narrative details the loss of youthful innocence and the burden of responsibility thrust upon young soldiers during the war. Another theme is resilience and adaptation, as the book explores how Jardine and his fellow Marines endured the mental and physical challenges posed by combat. Additionally, the memoir highlights the lasting impact of war, not only in terms of personal trauma but also in shaping post-war lives, careers, and communities. Through his personal journey, the book also touches on themes of identity, growth, and healing.

Writing Style and Tone

Jardine's writing style is characterized by vivid, descriptive prose that brings to life the immediate and visceral experiences of a combat Marine. The tone is raw and reflective, often oscillating between nostalgic recollections of his early life and the stark reality of warfare. Despite the weighty subject matter, Jardine's narrative is personal and engaging, offering readers a sincere glimpse into his memories. His use of illustrations and photographs throughout the book further enriches the narrative, providing visual context to his words.

Criticism

While "Combat Marine at Seventeen" is praised for its candid and heartfelt account of a young Marine's experience, some readers may find the narrative arc somewhat less structured than traditional memoirs. The shifts between Jardine's early life, combat experiences, and post-war life might feel abrupt to those expecting a linear progression. Additionally, the level of detail in describing combat might be overwhelming to some readers, though others might appreciate it for its authenticity.

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