Title: The PFC
Author: Duane Wells
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 978-1728329055
Pages: 112
Genre: Military History
Reviewed by: Tony Espinoza
Pacific Book Review
When it comes to matters of war and military service, the backbone and foundation of any military force is, of course, the soldiers who fight for their country. As Sun Tzu once said, “Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look on them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.”
In author Duane Wells’ book, The PFC, the author takes a very different approach to the common military history book. The author takes readers on a journey to see what life was like for a soldier who was drafted, instead of enlisted. Rather than taking readers to the “front lines” and the battles that haunt so many people, the author instead speaks of daily life in the service. From the days of basic training and the struggles against commanding officers, to the odd reception he received from family upon returning home, the trip across the sea to Italy and so much more.
This is a well written, engaging and unique military-based memoir. The author takes readers into aspects of military life which aren’t touched upon nearly as much as the actual battles fought and the horrors witnessed in war itself. Filled with both humor and honesty, the author relays the everyday occurrences that happened during his time as a PFC. An especially interesting story from the book was his experience with music, and having to perform for 200 people with a group of musicians he never met before, which spoke of the life of a soldier who was told what to do and could not argue it no matter how unprepared he was.
This is a perfect read for those who enjoy memoirs, especially military based memoirs, which relay stories from life as a soldier. The author perfectly captures not only the life of a soldier but the atmosphere and interactions between soldiers which are often only alluded to in books.
Funny, well-written and truly engaging, author Duane Wells’ The PFC is a one-of-a-kind book capturing the attention of anyone who reads it. A military read that is not to be missed, readers won’t be able to put this book down.
