Customer Reviews

Robinson Crusoe, U.S.N.: The Adventures of George R. Tweed, Rm1 on Japanese-Held Guam

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I first saw the movie starring Jeffrey Hunter when I was little. It was one of those movies that always came on late at night, but I always stayed up to watch it. I have read the book, and actually own a hardback copy signed by Mr. Tweed himself. I spent 3 years on Guam and visited the sight of his dwelling. I won't call it a cave, because it was just a small living space between two vertical rocks. Amazing he could live there and evade capture for 22 months. It was heartwarming the way the locals protected him from capture, even though some of them paid the ultimate price for doing so. Great story about one mans struggle to survive against heavy odds and how he remained close to those he befriended up until the time of his death.

This book is a fascinating view into the mind of a man escaping and evading. His techniques are timeless and still taught today in contemporary military escape and evasion schools, and as such makes for powerful lessons for military members subject to capture. Very interesting look into a different world view, the lack of polish and sophistication of the narrative is a breath of fresh air and intensely personal. The text and accompanying endnotes hint broadly that there may be more to the story than what we are given and other viewpoints that may not agree with RM1 Tweed's, but that does not detract from the book. A must for anyone with even a passing interest in the island and people of Guam or the saga of a trapped military man evading escape for years on a small island during WWII.

Ed Maybury CDR/MC/USN

This is, admittedly, an un-sophisticated narrative - mostly because it was written 64 years ago. But the timing aside, the book was also written before people became so politically correct in their memoirs and contained some fascinating stories about Mr. Tweed's time as a fugitive from the Japanese. All I know is that I read the book 20 years ago, began it early one afternoon and was still reading at 2 a.m. with chills and shudders because of some of the descriptions of what the invaders had done on Guam. If you like 2nd World War stories, this is one of the best.

Plus, I would be interested in contacting previous commenter Brian Tweed as my maiden name was Tweed and George Ray Tweed was my dad's 2nd cousin.

I am still looking for this book. I have related information for Brian Tweed who wrote a review in December 2002. Please put me in contact with him.

Actually Haven't Read the Book, But Thoroughlly enjoyed The Movie. I'm Gonna Make this Review not a review.I"m Trying to Get contact's of Anybody,with his Authentic or of How to get in Touch with Jeffrey Hunter or His family.I am Mr.Tweed's Grandson.any information would be greatly Appreciated.When any information becomes avaiable. EMail.Thanks. Brian Tweed