Posted on Mar 3, 2014
Has anyone read "About Face" by Col. David Hackworth?
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If you have read the book, what are your thoughts regarding Col. Hackworth's opinions of the military, how political influence impacts the military, and his overall leadership style? Hero or renegade?
Posted in these groups: 
Professional Development
Vietnam
Professional Development Vietnam
Posted 12 y ago
Responses: 8
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I read it and felt he was spot on in a lot of his views...definitely was outspoken and a renegade, definitely a hero as well.
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CPT Lance Cutsforth
And I believe the test of time has shown that his viewpoints were valid and true...
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Years ago. It's a classic. Since he was awarded a DSC and a few Silver Stars, I'd say he could be both a hero AND a renegade.
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CPT Lance Cutsforth
I tend to agree with you SFC C. I think there is validity to having a bit of both if it is focused on accomplishing the mission. Look at Patton, McArthur, Doolittle - even more recent guys like Col. Fontenot in Desert Storm...
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1SG(P) (Join to see)
I'd say the most extreme combination of the two was dual MoH recipient USMC MG Smedley Butler.
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Funny you mention this. I've been meaning to re-read it (last read in 1999 or so, when I was a Lieutenant). I'm curious to know how I've changed in terms of my reception to it in the last decade or so. I'll admit my last reading left me torn.
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Sir: I did a pen pal internship for Old Dave, about 10 years worth.
Fred Ramm
Fred Ramm
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For those who have read the book, Hack tells the story of "Willie Lump-Lump" and his training and his ultimate demise because there was too much intervention into the training he received by those who had no experience in war or training. Do you think we are creating a whole Army of "Willie Lump-Lumps" with our current training standards?
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I have read the book, and had met him before he passed. I think it is a good book, and it is right on on his views on leadership. book was and may still be required reading at west point.
a great man and true hero. I try to keep a copy in my office. I recommend reading all his books.
a great man and true hero. I try to keep a copy in my office. I recommend reading all his books.
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CPT Lance Cutsforth
It is an easy read SSG W. It was almost required reading when I was a lieutenant, and it made for some lively conversations on both sides of the fence. Col. Hackworth joined us in Bosnia when we were there in 1996 and wrote about us in his book Hazardous Duty. Another good one for your reading library. Hopefully this thread will be around when you are done and we can discuss it.
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CSM Scott White
SSG, I have read it multiple times, easy read and good information. I recommend reading all of his books, His leadership Primer that he wrote in Vietnam with Slam Marshal it is still spot on for leaders.
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