Reading how these young men faced their fears while dealing with often deadly calm interludes was breathtaking. Friedman jots out short chapters that could be letters to home. It's unimaginable to consider what tedium and terror they encountered, but hearing it from someone that was there makes it all the more heartbreaking. His tranquil demeanor belies the severity of a man who "believed peace was the default and conflict the anomaly." He takes you step-by-fearful step into this forgotten moment in time with absolutely no self-pity, anger or ptsd. If he can do that, how many others are living and never getting beyond the reach of absolute dread and joy of survival? What a talent!

An advanced copy of this book was provided for an honest review.

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