Customer Reviews

Semper Fi: The Definitive Illustrated History of the U.S. Marines

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I own several of the more popular table top books about the Corps,the ones with emblems in the center of the cover, but this one is really superior. First that needs mentioning are the outstanding photos of the artifacts, items that you would see in a museum. Also the text tells the story in enough detail to allow the reader to gain a good knowledge and appreciation of this historic institution. The book is well put together and really an attractive edition. Also it tells the Marine Corps story right up to our current war on terrorism. What really made me buy the book was when I saw 3 photos that were taken of Harrier jets of the Bumblebees of VMA-331 aboard the USS Nassau during the 1990-1991 Gulf War. I was a member of VMA-331 during that cruise. In fact I ran into the author, Col Chenoweth, one day in medical triage, as he was headed out to take photos of the air ops. In the book, there are two standard deck shots of the jets on the ship and then there is one of a pilot in his jet preparing for takeoff. That pilot was Captain Manny Rivera USMC of New York who was lost in an aircraft crash soon after that picture was taken.
That's all it took.

There is no book like this on the military market...A great illustrated tome,with a cover that will attract your eyes to the invaluable stories inside its genuine historical value.This is a must have book for all the families of the members of the Marine Corp.It will remind them of WHY their sons and daughters chose this branch of the military services.That Esprit de Corp is as alive today as it has always been in the 230 years of its existence,and in today's world,maybe even more so.It will renew your pride in being an American.Open it to any page,and your interest will be renewed for the proud and the best this country has to offer.I wish for the recruiters to have one book to give to their family,so that when the goings get tough,they can get comfort in the History which has produced so many great military men and women.

There are a number of books on the Corps, but this is one of the best, professionally prepared and well produced books I have seen. With that in mind, it seems odd that the one and very serious error, as was previously mentioned, is the Birthday of the Corps. As the author, researchers, or producers should have known, the Corps of US (or Continental) Marines was born on November 10, 1775 and we (Marines) will celebrate 231 years of proud service to this copuntry in a few days.

The remainder of the book gives a clear, precise and detailed account of the history and equipment of the Corps, without getting bogged down with specific elements of that history. Should a reader wish to look further on a portion of history, as noted, there are many more detailed accounts of specific periods, battles, etc.

However, it presents the story of the Marines with gusto, like the burning of Washington by the British during the War of 1812, when Marine gunners and riflemen from the Barracks and the Navy Yard held the British advance, causing them numerous casualties, allowing the Continental Army to withdraw. One of the few buildings not destroyed by the Brits is the Marine Barracks at 8th and I, and is one of the oldest buildings still standing in the city. A Royal Marine officer refused to burn the building out of respect for the gallant stand taken by the American Marines in their desperate attmpt to defend the city.

The book itself is well produced and handsomely presented, and for the price, a solid bargain, certainly for any Marine, or anyone else interested in the history of the Marine Corps.

A great history of our nation's finest defenders of liberty. The author tells it like it is, with nothing held back. A recommended read for everyone to let them know that freedom is not free.

I bought two for two of my grandsons - they were absolutely delighted with the book! They both felt it was full of information they had never learned.

I ordered this book for my boyfriend, a former Marine. Reviews claimed it was the best of its kind, but I was not prepared for something as beautiful as this. It's taking a lot of self-control on my part to not break gift-giving etiquette by flipping through and reading every page. I'm very excited and can't wait to give it to him for his Marine Corps birthday.

This book was placed in our local library in memory of Staff Sergeant William J. Daniels, United States Marine Corps.(Ret.). It is the best book I have ever seen on the Marine Corps and proud to have placed it there in his honor.
Signed: Robert Morgan

No real surpises or shocks to anyone who knows the history of the corps; but if you aren't familiar then it is a great overview. The pictures, MOH commendations, and other sidebars are also excellent. A copy of this should be on every coffee table in America.

Unlike the individual above- the authors do know EXACTLY what they are saying...the "Continental Marines" were established by act of Congress 11-10-75, HOWEVER, the UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS was AUTHORISED by Navy Act of 1794 to man the Marine Ships Guard Detachments on 6 frigates. >Only 3 of the six which had been approved by Congress via the same Navy Act of 27 Mar 1974 were ready for the Quasi War with France.< Actually July 11 1798 was the true establishment by MANNING of the USMC.
It is a fact that we as Marines look to Nov 10th as the birth of our Corps of American Marines, but in truth, the "USMC" dates to a post Revolutionary War period.
Any reviewer should have a better grasp of the historical facts.... it makes for a more germane and realistic review.

My husband enjoyed this book so much. It is well written, the research well done and the photos awesome. He appreciated the chapter on the war in Iraq as well. It made a great gift on Valentines day including a Globe & Anker cake *grin*