Three Wise Men

Brief Summary

Three Wise Men by Beau Wise, co-authored with Tom Sileo, is a poignant memoir that recounts the story of the Wise family, focusing on the extraordinary service and sacrifice of three brothers: Jeremy, Ben, and Beau Wise. Following the tragic events of 9/11, all three brothers enlisted in the military, demonstrating an intense commitment to their country. Jeremy, a US Navy SEAL veteran and CIA contractor, was killed in Afghanistan during a suicide bombing. Ben, an Army Green Beret sniper, was fatally wounded during combat with the Taliban. Their brother Beau provides a heartfelt narrative about being the "Sole Survivor" pulled from active duty after these devastating losses, painting a powerful portrait of love, duty, and the cost of war.

Main Themes and Topics

The book delves into themes of family, duty, and sacrifice, exploring the intimate bonds between the Wise brothers and their shared sense of purpose. The memoir highlights the harsh realities of military service, especially in the context of post-9/11 conflicts. It also tackles the notion of resilience in the face of profound grief and loss, as Beau reflects on his identity and role after the deaths of his brothers. Through their stories, Three Wise Men sheds light on the broader impacts of war, not just on soldiers, but also on their families and communities.

Writing Style and Tone

Beau Wise's narrative voice is candid and reflective, channeling both a personal vulnerability and a deep respect for his brothers' valor. Co-author Tom Sileo helps in structuring the memoir in a way that captures the raw emotions and gripping accounts of military engagements. The prose is accessible, yet powerful, maintaining a balance between detailed military events and intimate family moments. The tone is somber, yet there is an underlying strength and resilience that shines through the narrative.

Awards and Recognition

The sacrifices of the Wise family have been recognized through posthumous honors such as the Intelligence Star awarded to Jeremy and the Silver Star bestowed upon Ben. These awards exemplify their extraordinary bravery and dedication, cementing their legacy within the U.S. military and intelligence communities.

Criticism

Certain readers might find the memoir's focus heavily skewed towards the military aspects, which could overshadow deeper explorations of the familial relationships or personal reflections. Additionally, while the narrative is deeply personal, it occasionally leans towards a narrower viewpoint, which may not resonate with every audience seeking a broader analysis of the war’s implications.