Reading has the potential to reduce significant stress and improve mental well-being, especially for veterans transitioning into civilian life. It is an effective way to connect to those experiences, whether in personal service or through learning about others’ journeys. Reflecting on military experiences and connecting with others who have served can be part of that process.
We are here with the blog post that recommends ten nonfiction books specifically chosen for veterans. Some books offer gripping accounts of survival and combat, while others delve into the complexities of warfare and its effects on individuals and nations.
Enlightening Nonfiction War Books Veterans Should Read
You never know how someone lived their life unless you read about them and their experiences. From personal memoirs to in-depth historical analyses, the following works offer valuable insights into the military experience and its impact.
Reflections on Service and Sacrifice
True Confessions of a U.S. Army Drill Sergeant by Ralph Bargabos
This memoir is a candid display of life in the U.S. Army. Ralph Bargabos, Master Sergeant Retired, brings candid insights from basic training right into deployments overseas. He served for 17 years, which included assignments as a drill sergeant at Fort Bliss. Additionally, he was a recruiter as well as an air defense artillery specialist.
His book details the ups and downs of military life. It covers the intense training, the camaraderie between soldiers, and the personal sacrifices made. “True Confessions” is a compelling read for anyone interested in a firsthand account of military service. It’s an excellent nonfiction book for veterans. You can find this book on Amazon.
Flags of Our Fathers by James Bradley
This book tells the story behind the famous photograph of flag-raising at Iwo Jima during World War II. It gives a story and experiences about the six men who raised the flag. It opens to them from before, on the war, and its after-impact. The concepts of heroism and sacrifice through “Flags of Our Fathers” can remind one of the high cost that war exacts on human lives. It’s a strong and moving tribute to those who served. It’s one of the Nonfiction Books for Veterans, linking them with the moments of great military history.
American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History by Chris Kyle
Chris Kyle’s book tells an interesting account of the Navy SEAL sniper, with accounts of combat time in Iraq. The tension and mental pressure he goes through when he is involved in the war are quite telling. Also, it portrays some difficulties upon returning home and resuming a life as a civilian. “American Sniper” has lots of value when discussing complexities in war and their residual effects. It is a powerful and thought-provoking nonfiction book for veterans, which would make veterans understand the problems the men faced coming back from combat.
Stories of Resilience and Survival
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand
This “Unbroken” is the incredible true story of Louis Zamperini-an Olympic athlete, who survived the crash of a plane and also spent years as a POW only to find redemption in his life. His determination and hard will in dealing with inhuman hardships form one powerful message of hope, something that resonates greatly with all the challenges of military service and inspires perseverance.
Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10 by Marcus Luttrell
This book tells the sobering story of Marcus Luttrell, the one and only survivor of a failed Navy SEAL mission, Operation Redwing in Afghanistan. In this book, Luttrell reveals the closeness of brotherhood found among military men and even to the sacrifices of those involved. “Lone Survivor” is a thrilling and deeply moving read that pays tribute to brethren killed in action. It is a valuable nonfiction book for veterans, offering insight into the realities of combat and the strength of brotherhood.
Understanding the Wars We Fight
Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War by Mark Bowden
“Black Hawk Down” provides a detailed account of the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia. It depicts the intense urban combat and the courage of the soldiers involved. The book offers a stark portrayal of modern warfare and its complexities. It’s a compelling read for veterans who can relate to the intensity of combat situations. This is a crucial nonfiction book, recognizing the sacrifices made in service.
This Kind of War: The Classic Korean War History by T.R. Fehrenbach
This book offers a comprehensive analysis of the Korean War, exploring the strategic errors, political influences, and human costs of the conflict. It provides valuable insights into the complexities of this often-overlooked war. “This Kind of War” is an important read for veterans seeking a deeper understanding of military history and its impact.
The Guns of August: The Outbreak of World War I by Barbara W. Tuchman
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book is a study of the political and military choices that caused World War I. It presents the dangers of the political miscalculation and devastations that result from wars. “The Guns of August” offers a valuable historical perspective on the war’s origins. It is a thought-provoking nonfiction book for veterans, encouraging one to appreciate the historical perspective of warfare.
Leadership and Military Life
Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer
Though a fiction book, “Once an Eagle” is highly rated by many veterans for the realistic view presented in the contrast between styles of military leadership. The career lines of two soldiers run throughout the novel. In the first soldier, qualities are portrayed as desirable characteristics, while the other exemplifies all the wrong ones. What it teaches veterans is something most beneficial about ethical leadership: morale and effectiveness. Such is a strong, powerful read for any veteran despite it being fiction.
We Were Soldiers Once … and Young by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway
It relates to the first major battle in the Vietnam War and shares some of the experiences during this battle. The author talks about the bravery and resiliency of the young soldiers who fought there. Such a book would tell people who Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore was, along with his leadership in this and other battles. “We Were Soldiers Once. And Young” is a powerful and moving tribute to sacrifice in war. It is a must-read book, linking veterans to the experiences of fellow soldiers.
About Face: The Odyssey of an American Warrior by Col. David H. Hackworth
This autobiography tells the story of Col. David H. Hackworth, one of the most decorated soldiers in American history. Hackworth offers a critical perspective on military bureaucracy and advocates for the well-being of soldiers. “About Face” is a candid and thought-provoking read that resonates with many veterans. It is a valuable nonfiction book for veterans, offering insights into leadership from the front lines.
Conclusion
Reading is important for everyone, but it holds special significance for veterans. Military nonfiction books can offer solace, understanding, and a sense of connection to people like them. They can also provide new perspectives and insights into the complexities of military life, warfare, and the transition back to civilian life.
This list of ten nonfiction books is just a starting point. There are countless other books out there that can offer valuable experiences for veterans. Obviously, they are not solely for the veterans. If your favorite genre is military, then you can give it a go and live the lives these military soldiers lived through their words. Take some time to explore these stories and discover the power of reading to connect, reflect, and learn.
