Additional information
by Jeff Dacus (Author)
From an historian and columnist in Leatherneck and Armor magazines, this is the exciting narrative account--based on interviews, first-person accounts, and official documents--of a group of Marine reservists during 1991's Operation Desert Shield/Storm. In this war, thousands of reservists are called up for the first time since the Korean War. The Marines of Bravo Company, 4th Tank Battalion, are hastily trained and sent into action leading the effort to free Kuwait. Defeating the Iraqis in battle after battle, the Marines reach Kuwait City, accomplishing their objective. Only a few weeks later, they are back home at their former jobs.
During their deployment they face enemy tanks, mines, and artillery as well as their own bureaucracy, petty jealousies, and one officer that fails to live up to his oath. Their superior officers make debatable decisions, and the men are often unsupported. In the end, they find the support they need, the leadership they lack, and a comradeship comparable to historic units like the Band of Brothers, the Old Breed, Knights Templar, and Washington's Immortals.
Author Biography
Jeff Dacus is a retired Master Sergeant of Marines who experienced tank combat in Operation Desert Storm. He is also a retired schoolteacher who taught U.S. history for thirty-five years and was an adjunct professor at the University of Portland. He volunteers with local veterans groups and is a speaker at historical events and with school groups. He is the historical consultant for the annual Northwest Colonial Festival.
He is a private pilot who has written numerous print articles in Leatherneck and Armor magazines, as well as online for the Journal of the American Revolution. He holds advanced degrees from American Military University, the University of Portland, and Lewis & Clark College. He resides in Vancouver, WA.
