MWSA Book Review

One Bullet Away – The making of a Marine Officer

Author:  Nathaniel Fick

Publisher:  Houghton Mifflin Company

Reviewer: Bill McDonald – President of the MWSA

Brilliant Memoir of a USMC Officer at War with Terrorism

Author Nathaniel Fick, a former USMC captain with the First Reconnaissance Battalion, writes a tell-it-like-it-is memoir in his book: “One Bullet Away – The Making of a Marine Officer.” It is a compelling and riveting insider's look at the recruitment, training and making of a Marine Corps officer that takes us right into the combat and the action. Fick goes from the Ivy League halls of Dartmouth to the hard and courageous life of a reconnaissance officer in the Global War on Terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq.

His story gives us one of the best insider looks at what is happening in our war on terror. It is written from the point of view of one of those few brave young men who are leading the charge and risking their lives daily. This book is highly readable and is destined to become a 21st century classic of how we fought this new kind of war. It is also not shy about pointing out the stupidity of some of our commanders and those in charge. He pulls no punches and holds nothing back in his analysis of what happened.

This book shows the best and the worst of people. It is honest prose that evokes the essence of older more classic war literature—when courage and compassion were still important to our fellow countrymen.

Once you read this book you will be affected in some way. Your emotions and your thinking about the war and how it is being handled will change. You will also have a much higher regard and respect for those men and women who are serving our country in this war now.

Fick is a smart, courageous storyteller. His book is a very candid look at his military experiences and should be required reading material for all new officers about to serve in this new war on terrorism. It is highly recommended and is given our MWSA’s Highest Rating – FIVE STARS!

2005 Gold Medal Award for Best Military Memoir!

Reviewer: Joe Fabel – MWSA Review Board

The author presents a thought provoking rendering of his two tours in the Marines during their combat deployment in first Afghanistan, then more fully in Iraq. It is a story of upholding a valued tradition, yes, but more so an understanding and dedication to leading men into battle.

Nate demands much of himself in order to achieve the ultimate goal of a Marine officer, that of insuring his men come back alive. Bringing each Marine back from the savagery of the battle was upper most in his planning for each engagement. His assigned tasking was well planned and fully explained to the men of his platoon. Such preparation provided the best means of success in situations way beyond control of any individual.

This novel contains events which actually took place and Nate and his men were in the thick of things. Day and night battles are witnessed with all of the intensity and danger of the moment. Yes, much is harrowing during a fire fight. Engagement is challenging for each in his patrol. While fighting those attacking you, you must avoid undue force of arms to spare civilian casualties.

Upon leaving the Marines, Nate describes the emotional and psychological adjustments he faced. Severance for the warrior is never easily done. There are always scars.

This is a must read for each of us to appreciate the demands of service upon those who answer the call to arms.