Introduction
The memoir book With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa, written by Marine Eugene Sledge, reveals some details of the Pacific Theater during World War II. As part of the Marine Corps, the author survived heavy battles, suffered the loss of comrades, and made his conclusions about the war and soldiers’ service. In his book, Sledge raises the themes of the traumatism and cruelty of war, courage, training of soldiers, friendship and strong ties between the military, and patriotism. Modern Marines can learn much new information from the book, which will be helpful in their service. Although, first of all, With the Old Breed focuses on hostilities and their horrors, the book can also bring beneficial knowledge for the everyday lives of Marines.
With the Old Breed summary
The memoirs begin with the author’s story about enrolling in the Marine Corps. Although his family advises staying in college to receive an officer rank, Sledge wants to participate in the battles. After several training months, the protagonist goes to Peleliu, where he faces the horrors of war. Battles scare him, and the death of comrades, who recently said about their promising plans for peacetime, is striking. Sledge also describes the war’s effect on soldiers – they become cruel. Marines find several bodies mutilated by Japanese soldiers, and Americans take gold teeth from dead Japanese. After winning at Peleliu and several months of training, the main character goes to a new battlefield – Okinawa. Here, he again describes the details not found in historical data about the war – body smells, sounds and sensations of battle, and similar aspects. The memoirs finish when Sledge departs home and makes conclusions about the brutality of the war. He also shows his admiration for soldiers’ cohesion and courage.
Book themes
The memoir about the experience of the Marine has several topics that attract attention. The description of battles and their consequences and the fact that not all battles, even bloody ones, are significant for the outcome of the entire war emphasize the cruelty of wars. However, Sledge claims to die for now country of responsibility, emphasizing the theme of patriotism. The topic of military training is also addressed – firstly, it seems unfair to the main character, but then the man understands its importance for future survival. Courage is an essential theme because war’s menacing and brutal atmosphere is frightening. Sledge recalls his conversation with a friend telling about the shaming of his fear. Comrade supports the protagonist by claiming that “Courage meant overcoming fear and doing one’s duty in the presence of danger, not being unafraid” (Sledge, 2007, p. 111). One of the key themes is friendship and trust among marines. Several times, Sledge notes that such established strong ties saved lives.
Book themes application to modern Marine Corps
Modern marines also continue to demonstrate the courage and strength of their training. Now soldiers have other battles and wars, newer advanced weapons, and regulated battle rules, and their tactics are developing. However, they can bring lessons from With the Old Breed to everyday life. For example, present-day infantrymen should understand that training is not just their obligation but something that will save their lives in the case of an emergency. The book also provides a valuable lesson that courage is not a lack of fear but actions despite it. Finally, the modern Marine Corps must respect their comrades and leaders in their daily lives. Sled teaches that they become a real family relying on and protecting each other, saving many lives on the battlefield. Although circumstances are changing, issues of training, courage, and cooperation are always relevant for Marines.
Conclusion
Thus, memoirs from World War II written by the Sledge Marine describe the battles in the Pacific theater of the war. The book presents many valuable lessons about war, courage, camaraderie, and other aspects of the life of soldiers. Although Marines operate in other circumstances in today’s world, they can learn a lot from the book. In particular, she speaks of the value of training, an understanding of courage, and the reliability of ties and cooperation between Marines.
Reference
Sledge, E. B. (2007). With the old breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa. Ballantine Books.