Customer Reviews

Savage Peace: Americans at War in the 1990s

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Having read Violent Peace, Savage Peace thankfully delved into the post-Cold War world and how we use or should use US troops as peacekeepers. I particularly enjoyed Bolger's treatment of the Sinai and he quite correctly emphasizes that this is a mission that has worked and justifiably so. Bolger deftly mixes narration with bold truths, especially about Amb. Hunt. In is itself I hope Americans can see after reading Savage Peace how deeply ingrained shortsighted selfish isolationism is in the American psyche. The only shortfall of this book is the lack of history of NEOs (non-combatant evacuation) and their applicability in our world. Even at the time the book was written there was much he could have used on this still vital subject. We've seen NEOs and embassy evacuations in Sierra Leone, Uganda, Siagon, Liberia, Somalia and others it has always (see China 1920's-30's) and will be a joint military mission as well as something that must be coordinated at the highest civilian/political level. I don't think I can overstate the vital role the US military plays here. As "State" magazine (publication of the US State Dept.) once wrote (I paraphrase) The true power of the United States does not rest on the number of guns afloat or in the air, or the soldier's behind it, but in her ability to protect her citizens abroad when they are in need.

I disagree with the former re-viewer in that this analysis theory HAS always applied to the here and now. Bolger clearly shows this through case study repeatedly, even without being insubordinate nor being tact-less towards anyone, regardless of rank. The old "He who forgets history is condemned to repeat it!" applies. I can re-call enough history that Bolger revealed through fore-shadowing that kept me interested. If he is retired, then it is our loss. Bolger should be General rank and no less; I would be proud to serve under him and I hope he still can serve our country well.Bolger would serve greatly in Iraq, for he surely shows his knowledge in this book.