The Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in Iraq

I had the honor and privilege of attending Captain Folsom's wedding and at this most wonderful event in his life none of us could have known how his life would change in a matter of hours. You see this was the weekend before September 11, 2001. The Highway War traces the trials and tribulations of this young Marine as he leads his Company of Marines and their Light Armored Vehicles from Kuwait to the battlefields of Iraq. Captain Folsom takes the reader into a world that few can fully understand and fewer still who would willingly go. In this book taken directly from the Captain's journal you begin to gain some idea what it is like to fight with and lead men into combat. You will read about his self-doubt, his concern for those under his command and his acts of bravery (that he will downplay). This book is a must read for any military book fan or anyone interested in learning a little about those who defend this great country. I would highly recommend this book. If Captain Folsom is an example of the fighting men and women in our current wars it will be through no fault of theirs if we fail in the endeavor.

I am not typically a reader of non-fiction war books, but "The Highway War" really held my interest throughout. I was hoping to get a little glimpse into what some of the soldiers endured in Iraq. This book did just that as it tugged on every emotion. Major Folsom does an outstanding job of allowing the reader to get into the head of a Marine Commander as he is making life/death decisions. I really enjoyed the honesty and frankness as sleep deprivation and the pressures of combat take their toll on the mind. It was interesting seeing the Major's growth as a leader. The detail is excellent. I highly recommend "The Highway War". Rob Saracino (Lindenhurst, NY)

I found myself reading this book at every opportunity; in traffic, in elevators, even at meals and similar inappropriate times. This is not just another rollercoaster ride conducted by a combat experienced Marine. This Marine's account of Delta Company's transformation is remarkable for its transparency and his ability to compel the reader to share in the highs and lows, fear and courage, the zeal, the frustration, the suffering, the joy of brotherhood and the awe inspiring pride of being a US Marine. Baring his soul without fear of criticism, the author leads the reader and his nation to examine themselves and their motives. Critical of his own growing complacency towards danger, he describes the company's heroism and his own abandon of prudent caution in the face of the enemies attack. Yet he never once mentions the fact that he received the Bronze Star for these actions. While his men and his superiors may think otherwise, he does not appear to view himself as particularly heroic. I think, without intending to do so, Major Folsom provides the reader with a bridge between the exhilarating and stunningly swift battle resulting in the dissolution of Saddam Hussein's brutal empire and the ironic contest of wills that has taken its place between the free world and the tyranny of Islamic Fascism. From the first contact, it was apparent that the fight was not going to be with the Iraqi army, but with a group of organized thugs, the followers of Hussein and Islamic opportunist attracted to the sound of distant guns from around the world. An important undercurrent in his book, Major Folsom never looses sight of the impoverished and tragic (Iraqi) people who continue to suffer the consequences of unchecked fanaticism.

I just wanted you all to know how much I am enjoying Maj. Folsom's book. I'm no expert by any means, but he has a wonderful voice and I have often found myself laughing out loud, cringing, or crying as the situation warrants. Reading it brings back so many memories of what the families back home went through; all the emotional ups and downs and bonds that were created. Maj. Folsom does an absolutely beautiful job of recounting the events as he perceived them and makes the book engaging for the reader. Many times I have picked up a book written by a commanding officer about their wars, and have been bored to tears (and giving up the book) because it is all about the tactics and operations employed. Highway War shows the reader the life of the men, their personalities and idiosyncrasies;that not all Marines are the same or even get along. It's true to the life that our husbands have chosen to lead and represents them well.

This is a great book that follows it's author through the inital war in Iraq, a dedicated Marine who grows to love his men as only a real man can when put through the fire. He shows insight and compassion as well as a real dedication to his men, his country, and to the Corps. Well written!