Surprised at Being Alive

Brief Summary

Surprised at Being Alive by Robert F. Curtis is a compelling memoir detailing the action-packed career of a military pilot. Curtis takes readers on a breathtaking journey from his early days flying with the Screaming Eagles during the Vietnam War to later service with the U.S. Marine Corps and the Royal Navy. Covering over two decades of military aviation, the book highlights Curtis's experiences flying eight different helicopters, including the Chinook and SeaKing. Alongside thrilling accounts of evading enemy fire and mechanical failures, the narrative underscores a common thread of survival against the odds. Despite numerous close calls and the loss of many comrades, Curtis reflects on the blend of skill, luck, and perhaps fate, that allowed him to make it to retirement.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes of Surprised at Being Alive is survival. Throughout his career, Curtis constantly faced life-threatening situations, whether due to equipment malfunctions, hostile fire, or accidental mid-air collisions. The memoir explores how these challenges were met with a mix of determination and expertise, underscoring the precarious balance between life and death that pilots experience. Another significant theme is the addiction and passion for flying, capturing the excitement and allure of aviation that kept pulling Curtis back into the skies, despite the risks. The memoir also touches on themes of camaraderie and loss, as Curtis navigates the emotional landscape of losing colleagues while celebrating the unbreakable bonds formed in service.

Writing Style and Tone

Robert F. Curtis writes with an engaging and often candid tone, blending technical details with personal anecdotes. His narrative is straightforward, appealing to both aviation enthusiasts and general readers seeking an authentic military memoir. Curtis's writing is characterized by vivid descriptions that bring the intensity of flying into sharp focus, while his reflective insights offer depth to the adrenaline-driven stories. The tone remains accessible and compelling, capturing the reader’s attention from the cockpit to the broader emotional journey of his career.

Criticism

While Surprised at Being Alive is widely appreciated for its thrilling accounts and authentic perspective, some readers may find the highly technical aviation jargon somewhat challenging if they are unfamiliar with military or aviation terminologies. At times, the detailed recounting of technical aspects might overshadow the narrative for those less interested in the intricacies of helicopter flight. However, Curtis's storytelling generally maintains a balance that keeps the memoir engaging.