D. M. DeWald’s Grey Feathers: Led by Love of Country is a compelling book about the 3rd Battalion 12th Infantry 4th Division’s bravery and heroism in one of recent memory’s bloodiest wars.
Though primarily a book about the 3rd Battalion 12th Infantry 4th Division and their exploits during the Vietnam War, Grey Feathers: Led by Love of Country, by Daniel M. DeWald, is also an impactful, sobering testament to the ardent valor and hopeful courage of the average soldier.
Imagine!
Armed only with your rifle, clothed in green, a helmet over your head, and only your fellow behind you, and onward, marching to war with the hopes of country and family on your back.
Those are the duties of a soldier in a war.
They do so with the thought of family and country beating inside their hearts.
And there should be great respect for their inspirational actions, but now in these contemporary times, soldiers are derided and played as political pieces instead of genuine appreciation.
Even now, fewer people dare to sign up and bear the struggle of their homeland.
The Necessity of the Soldier in Modern Times
In an ideal world where peace reigns and nations embrace their neighbors with open arms, soldiers might be an odd anachronism, a reminder of a more savage era, but such is not the case. All over the world, conflict sputters and blazes, like wildfires, appear suddenly and, sometimes, without warning.
So, the army is still needed, ever a pillar in these trying times. The soldiers–the brave, young men and women who have no compunction in laying down their lives for their beloved home, acting as the first line, the barrier between whatever comes and their families, friends, and communities.
The Patriotic Heart inside Every Soldier
Inside every soldier’s heart is the conviction of a selfless patriot. What is more patriotic than offering up your life to the country you live in and surrendering yourself to become an instrument of its will?
Although they might be misused and abused, it is always a country’s grace that a soldier stands to protect it against its enemies.
The Surprising Wellspring of Hope Found in War
War is one of the most horrid things humans have ever invented. In war, the most terrible atrocities are committed, and the vilest horrors come to fruition, but war is also the forge of heroism and compassion. Paradoxically, amid unrelenting oppression and misery, greatness blooms and inspires those in its wake.
But what makes greatness?
Does one’s ferocity define greatness? Or is it one’s ingenuity? Who is greater? The man who has killed all his enemies? Or the person who dies but has given time for his friends to escape?
Greatness is not simple, but it can spring from blinding valor, the impetus not to concede or surrender, and the immense courage to face your deepest and darkest fears.
In short: greatness is not being obstinate but principled for a cause beyond yourself.
In short: greatness is not being without fear but being afraid but still pushing forward.
Day in and day out, soldiers are full of bravery and courage; these burn intensely in their hearts, propelling them to acts of greatness and heroism.
Bravery and Valor in the Vietnam War
Although the Vietnam War was not the best showing for the United States military, there were still shining examples of bravery and courage among the soldiers that participated in its fronts.
Just from the onset, nearly three-fourths volunteered to serve, contrary to the popular myth that the majority were drafted. These brave soldiers were rearing to fight for freedom and democracy.
Hundreds of soldiers stood up during the war. They all went above and beyond for the founding principles of the United States of America, fighting against tyranny and upholding global norms.
A Reminder of the Greatness of Soldiers
Suppose you’re looking for a good read and an excellent nudge to remember the respect soldiers and veterans deserve. You need Grey Feathers: Led by Love of Country by Daniel DeWald on your shelves.
Grey Feathers narrates the story of a military troop conducting itself selflessly against the backdrop of a terrible, bloody war. Within its pages, you’ll learn how soldiers act under pressure, work themselves with dignity and prevail against the odds.
The Happy Hammock 