Review of Tour of Duty

[Sandip Kumar]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Tour of Duty" by William H. Coles.]

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3 out of 5 stars

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Douglas Brinkley’s Tour of Duty is a fascinating deep dive into John Kerry’s Vietnam War experiences. It gives readers a chance to walk alongside Kerry during his time as a naval officer, showcasing his courage, leadership, and the moral challenges he faced. What I found particularly interesting is how the book ties his war experiences to his later decision to become an anti-war activist, showing how those events shaped his perspective on life and politics.

One thing I absolutely loved about this book is its “authenticity.” Brinkley uses personal letters and interviews that make the narrative feel real and vivid. It’s like you’re right there, witnessing the action and emotions firsthand. But on the flip side, I felt the constant mention of “valor” was a bit much. Yes, Kerry’s bravery is remarkable, but repeating it so often made it feel a little overdone, as if trying too hard to emphasize it.

Pros:

1. Genuine and Immersive: The detailed use of firsthand sources draws you in.


2. Relatable Writing: Even non-history buffs can follow and enjoy the narrative.


3. Inspiring Transformation: Kerry’s journey from soldier to activist is thought-provoking.



Cons:

1. Too Kerry-Focused: Other voices from the Vietnam War could have added depth.


2. Heavy in Details: Some military descriptions might feel dense for casual readers.


3. Overemphasis on Valor: At times, the narrative felt a little too polished.



Overall, Tour of Duty is a great read, especially if you’re interested in military history or personal growth stories.

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Tour of Duty
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