Customer Reviews

The Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in Iraq

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This is a great book that follows it's author through the inital war in Iraq, a dedicated Marine who grows to love his men as only a real man can when put through the fire. He shows insight and compassion as well as a real dedication to his men, his country, and to the Corps. Well written!

I found myself reading this book at every opportunity; in traffic, in elevators, even at meals and similar inappropriate times. This is not just another rollercoaster ride conducted by a combat experienced Marine. This Marine's account of Delta Company's transformation is remarkable for its transparency and his ability to compel the reader to share in the highs and lows, fear and courage, the zeal, the frustration, the suffering, the joy of brotherhood and the awe inspiring pride of being a US Marine.

Baring his soul without fear of criticism, the author leads the reader and his nation to examine themselves and their motives. Critical of his own growing complacency towards danger, he describes the company's heroism and his own abandon of prudent caution in the face of the enemies attack. Yet he never once mentions the fact that he received the Bronze Star for these actions. While his men and his superiors may think otherwise, he does not appear to view himself as particularly heroic.

I think, without intending to do so, Major Folsom provides the reader with a bridge between the exhilarating and stunningly swift battle resulting in the dissolution of Saddam Hussein's brutal empire and the ironic contest of wills that has taken its place between the free world and the tyranny of Islamic Fascism. From the first contact, it was apparent that the fight was not going to be with the Iraqi army, but with a group of organized thugs, the followers of Hussein and Islamic opportunist attracted to the sound of distant guns from around the world.

An important undercurrent in his book, Major Folsom never looses sight of the impoverished and tragic (Iraqi) people who continue to suffer the consequences of unchecked fanaticism.

I am not typically a reader of non-fiction war books, but "The Highway War" really held my interest throughout. I was hoping to get a little glimpse into what some of the soldiers endured in Iraq. This book did just that as it tugged on every emotion.

Major Folsom does an outstanding job of allowing the reader to get into the head of a Marine Commander as he is making life/death decisions. I really enjoyed the honesty and frankness as sleep deprivation and the pressures of combat take their toll on the mind. It was interesting seeing the Major's growth as a leader. The detail is excellent. I highly recommend "The Highway War".

Rob Saracino (Lindenhurst, NY)

I had the honor and privilege of attending Captain Folsom's wedding and at this most wonderful event in his life none of us could have known how his life would change in a matter of hours. You see this was the weekend before September 11, 2001.

The Highway War traces the trials and tribulations of this young Marine as he leads his Company of Marines and their Light Armored Vehicles from Kuwait to the battlefields of Iraq. Captain Folsom takes the reader into a world that few can fully understand and fewer still who would willingly go.

In this book taken directly from the Captain's journal you begin to gain some idea what it is like to fight with and lead men into combat. You will read about his self-doubt, his concern for those under his command and his acts of bravery (that he will downplay).

This book is a must read for any military book fan or anyone interested in learning a little about those who defend this great country. I would highly recommend this book.

If Captain Folsom is an example of the fighting men and women in our current wars it will be through no fault of theirs if we fail in the endeavor.

Captain Folsom was one of the first to take Marine Light Armored Vehicles into combat in Iraq in 2003. This was also the coming of age, if you will, of Cap. Folsom as a combat commander. The book is mostly about he and his men going to war in modern times. In many ways the times have changed, the equipment, the support from aircraft and gunships. In other ways the times are about the same. It's the men that really count. As a leader, Cap. Folsom had to put men at the risk of their lives. Decisions had to be made quickly, under great stress, keeping multiple goals in mind. And there's the confusion, 'the fog of war.'

At the beginning of the book, Cap. Folsom was a well trained young officer. By the end he was a warrior, a commander of other warriors. Let us hope that we don't need his skills again, although I suspect that this is a futile hope.

One interesting side benefit of this book is that it describes the use of the LAV in action. Many of the casualties taken in Iraq have been in HumVees being used to patrol areas. The Army has finally gotten the message and is buying some 2,300 similar vehicles called Stryker. Here is a report of the equipment in actual use.

Outstanding writing!! Major Folsom lays combat out for the novice and the professional alike. This book is realistic, informative and a must read to understand the frustrations, leadership challenges, inevitable screw-ups and overall outstanding ability of USMC officers and men in the Iraq Invasion. The narrative is honest and aimed directly at the reader--you feel like you are there with Delta Company!! I could feel the constant sand in everything and the grit, grime, loneliness, terror and lack of sleep that makes up combat. Seth describes his fears, concern for his troops and the confidence and analysis that takes place in the brain of the well trained and disciplined Marine Officer. It is very gratifying to read the personal and private observations of a first class Marine Office and to observe how he masters combat and presses forward in the very best interest of his Company, the Battalion, the Regiment and most significantly, his men. E. B. Darsey, Capt USN(R)

The Highway War gives you more than just a story about combat in Iraq. What you get is a complete account of a Marine Company Commander's battle not only against Iraqi combatants but also a battle within his own military unit as he searches for leadership and personal answers to difficult situations. A truly riveting book that keeps you interested in the outcomes. A must read for any military leader.

A most enjoyable read! This book brings the reader to the dust, dirt, sweat, sand, fatigue, and smells of diesel and ammunition. It will bring back memories, good and not so good, to those who have worn the uniform. To those who have not served and to those who shall at some future time, it provides great insight into the art of military science and the human emotion of the battlefield. This book is also a tribute to military families and spouses who also serve and share in the hardships and experiences of those in uniform. Thank you Seth and Ashley for your sacrifice.

Don Radeke, LTC, USA(Ret)

CAPT Folsom's book is an excellent read.

It's written in a "There I was" conversational style- as a Navy veteran, I felt like we were two buddies sharing stories over beer at the O-club.

He wisely left high-level strategic discussions to the historians and instead, focused on the people and events around him. He successfully captured the conflicts at their level- mission vs. men, duty vs. family and of course, hurry up vs. wait.

It was really awesome finally getting a chance to read this very much anticipated book. As a person who had the honor to serve with this company in Iraq, it was awesome to see our story told. Major Folsom comes out in this book holding nothing back, his personal recollection of the events of this war was a very real look at the good and bad things that come out of being a company together for so long; and from serving in combat. There really is no better way to pay tribute to those of Delta that came home, and those that did not. I believe that regardless of wether or not you were there, this book will be hard to put down. For those of us that were part of the Dragon family, it will make you remember those days, the sights, sounds, and emotions and perhaps give you a bigger view of what it was that Delta accomplished. Often we know the part we play, and sometimes lack that view. Those that weren't there, but wish to know the story, I hope you read this book, because its not like the others... Its not written by a reporter in an attempt to help you try to understand the mentality of the Marines. Its not a story focusing on the valor of one man under extreme circumstances. Its written by a Commanding Officer who was real enough to come out and say it wasn't the biggest war, or even the hardest battles, but they were ours, and they deserve to be told. This was Delta's War, and this is OUR story. SSGT JAMES THYDEN