Has anyone read "About Face" by Col. David Hackworth?

CPT Lance Cutsforth — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 13:44:16 -0500

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?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2014 7:14 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 19:14:04 -0500

I have not read the book but I will now.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 3 at 2014 8:24 PM

1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 20:24:33 -0500

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.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Mar 8 at 2014 5:38 PM

SFC William Swartz Jr — Sat, 08 Mar 2014 17:38:28 -0500

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.

Response by CPT Lance Cutsforth made Mar 11 at 2014 2:12 AM

CPT Lance Cutsforth — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 02:12:27 -0400

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?

Response by SGT Fredrick Ramm made Jul 27 at 2015 2:33 PM

SGT Fredrick Ramm — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 14:33:38 -0400

Sir: I did a pen pal internship for Old Dave, about 10 years worth.
Fred Ramm

Response by LTC Chris Norton made Jul 27 at 2015 2:37 PM

LTC Chris Norton — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 14:37:39 -0400

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.

Response by CSM Scott White made Jun 10 at 2016 10:33 AM

CSM Scott White — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 10:33:29 -0400

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.

Response by MSgt George Cater made Dec 8 at 2016 11:37 AM

MSgt George Cater — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 11:37:11 -0500

Love the book. Hack was both hero and renegade.