Cobra II: The Inside Story of the Invasion and Occupation of Iraq, written by Michael R. Gordon and General Bernard E. Trainor is the definitive work to date on this War. I have now read it and several other books on the subject twice cover to cover. As a vet of this War I can tell you this was insightful, exciting, dry, informative and infuriating all in one. The first few chapters deal with the lead up and various war plans of the War. Also covering Rummie and Franks antagonistic relationship in some depth, the administrations stance on Iraq after 9/11, the thoughts of CENTCOM officials, and the views of the various subordinate commanders...ie 3ID and V Corp. The information that followed is the most detailed battle to battle account of OIF to date........hands down. There are first hand accounts from the soldiers of both sides, as well as the main commanding players both Iraqi and Coalition. Complete with maps showing the proposed battle advance and the real life advance of coalition forces and the Iraqi units we fought. There is just too much to mention here, but believe me this is a must have for anyone interested in this war, Middle East politics and history or military history in general. Really the best book I have read in many many years, if you read Franks "American Soldier" read this.............they just don't compare.
-
-
I agree but their treatment of the 4th ID as they entered Tikrit and their subsequent occupation is misguided. They base it on Marine interviews rather than 4th ID participants. Consequently, they get the second hand story. Even so, the book is very good and covers the operations well. Many of these guys are my friends that I have known for years and the book treats them well. Steve
Comment