One Soldier's Story: A Memoir

This book is noteworthy as it is a public figure who has written a book without bragging about himself or supporting his current positions or causes. Dole is a retired politician who in his year's of reflection decides to write about the most significant event of his life, his service in WWII, the subsequent life-threatening injury, growing up in middle-century America and the support he received to overcome this devastating injury. This is a simple book that could have been written by thousands of WWII vets. Unfortunately, they are not famous and Bob is so in many respects Dole is writing it for them. He writes this book with no ego and no political agenda. In fact, he writes of his relationships across party lines and as he discusses his involvement with the WWII War Memorial there are great discussions on his excellent relationship with Bill Clinton. Where this book is most fascinating is describing his struggles going to college and the mindset of Americans as Pearl Harbor is bombed. Then you see the thought process of these young men as they decide whether to enlist and what should they attempt to do in the armed services. Pre-battle training is covered extensively but mainly from the standpoint of relationships with family through the letters included. Unfortunately, Dole's time in battle was limited as he is wounded almost immediately. So whole the build-up of this battle is compelling, it ends quickly. Then the amazing tale of how he was rescued at great risk and somehow managed to survive is told in great detail. Most Americans know he was injured but how many know of the months he was laid up paralyzed? Or the life threatening infections he fought off with experimental drugs? This book is not for everyone. If you are looking for a war book, this isn't it. Political intrigue and partisan politics? Pass on this read. But to reflect family life in a simpler America and the struggles of the heroic WWII soldiers, this is an excellent book and well worth the read.

This is a book well worth reading. Let me say at the outset that I have issues with Dole the politician but this is about Dole the man. It is a very human book that tells the story of an average American, a good citizen, a soldier and a man having to deal with a crippling injury. It is an unflinching look at how an average life can become remarkable life and a story of human endurance and courage. Inspiring.

Bob Dole had a distinguished career as a senator, vice presidential candidate, minority leader and majority leader of the Senate, and finally, presidential candidate. He suffered from a disability and it was well known that he lost the use of his right arm in WWII. However, he never really talked about it in depth. His war record was never something he made into a campaign issue. Finally, he speaks about it in this book. In the final days of the war, he was severely wounded and was paralyzed. Fortunately, the spinal injury was not serious and he recovered from the paralysis. Unfortunately, he was maimed and he spent many months in a body cast and in hospitals. He was a fairly hulking , athletic young guy but, he returned with a disfiguring injury to his shoulder which made his right arm useless. When he returned to the United States, he was hospitalized with both Daniel Inoyue (who lost an arm in the war) and Phil Hart (who partially lost the use of a hand). The three all ended up becoming senators and serving together. Although Inoyue and Hart were Democrats, the three share a friendship and mutual respect. Of course, Dole has always been a decent man and he was never the type to make political opposition personal with anyone. He survived his initial brush with death on the battlefield but, his ijuries caused him to become very ill and lose about 70 pounds. His poor mother wept when she first saw him. He became so sick that it appeared he would not survive. After several years of hospitalizations and therapy, he was rehabilitated enough to go on with his life. Senator Dole went through a lot in his life and, I'm glad that he finally is revealing the details of his experiences. His prior reluctence to do so is a testiment to the fact that he ran on his political record, unlike another recent candidate, who ran on his war record.

Bob Dole is a brave man, a hero and a great American. This book tells the complete story of his life as a soldier and of his years of recuperation after his war injuries. In this book he speaks very generously of all those people who helped him on his road back to health which initially took about 3 years. For those who are interested in the book and the man, there is an excellent author interview event available on CSpan2's BookTV. Bob Dole's courage, bravery and his modesty are all very appealing.

Senator Dole demonstrates what a quick wit he has, and a well grounded decency. And he gives so much credit to others, be it his hometown, parents, colleagues, friends and even strangers. That is what is so refreshing in an era when people want to make you believe that it was simply luck or some hard work that got them to a point of success. What may surprise some is how he speaks so fondly and nicely of those whom he served with in the Senate etc from the other party, and how he wants, like many of us, to return to a day when both parties worked together. He also notes that running against someone be it for Senate or President doesn't mean the other person is your enemy, but your challenger. No matter how old you are, whether you are male or female, there are some timeless truths and priceless lessons to be had in this book.