Duty Is Ours, Results Are God's

Main Themes and Topics

by Randall Jansen is an introspective narrative that delves into the profound questions of duty, service, and the search for meaning. Through his experiences in the US Marine Corps, Jansen explores the intrinsic motivations behind volunteering for military service, particularly when faced with the risk of serious injury or death. The book tackles philosophical inquiries about the concepts of freedom, liberty, and purpose, challenging readers to ponder whether there is an absolute truth or a correct worldview to adhere to.

Jansen provides a vivid recount of his service across various global locales, including the Caribbean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the battlegrounds of Vietnam. His stories, both intense and occasionally humorous, serve as conduits to deeper reflections on the essence of commitment and the broader implications of one's choices. The narrative also addresses the transition from military to civilian life, alongside the continuous quest for answers to life's most perplexing questions.

Writing Style and Tone

Randall Jansen's writing is characterized by clarity and a reflective tone. He effectively balances detailed accounts of his military adventures with philosophical musings that provoke thought without overwhelming the reader. His storytelling is both engaging and accessible, drawing readers into the harrowing yet rewarding experience of serving in the military. The anecdotes are interspersed with humor, which provides a lighter counterbalance to the heavier subjects of war and existential inquiry.

Brief Summary

offers a compelling memoir of Captain Randall Jansen's nine-year stint in the US Marine Corps. Beginning as a private in boot camp, Jansen's journey takes him through flight school and onto the international stage of military service. The book chronicles his ascent to the rank of Captain, highlighted by his survival of 248 combat flight missions, though not without sustaining a life-altering injury that concludes his military career. Upon returning to civilian life, Jansen embarks on an intellectual exploration, seeking to comprehend the underlying values that define duty, purpose, and truth. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical reflection, Jansen invites readers to accompany him on this journey of self-discovery and understanding.