Marcus Luttrell is "The One" - Sole Surviving Navy SEAL of the Battle of Asadabad

Posted By Blackfive

Blackfive note:  "The Lone Survivor" is on-sale today!

Finally, the story of one of the most harrowing battles in our nation's history is being told.  Here are the background links (be sure to read the first two by Froggy):

Froggy Ruminations - SEAL Memorial at the Punchbowl MUST READ
Froggy Ruminations - The One
Pundit Review - Blackfive podcast about the battle
Blackfive (Froggy) - Axelson and Dietz to Receive Navy Crosses
Blackfive (Froggy) - Mike Murphy Beach
Blackfive - "HERO" - SEAL Lieutenant Mike Murphy Considered for MOH
Blackfive - Danny Dietz - Navy SEAL Hero's Memorial Opposed

And, as many of you know, the sole survivor of the battle is known as "The One".  His father comments here occasionally as Pops, so (as Froggy and I have said), if he stops by, show him the proper respect.

"The One" is US Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell who's book, "Lone Survivor - The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10", is out tomorrow, June 12th.  This is the book that you absolutely must read.

The Washington Post gives a sort of preview, staying away from the fight itself and focusing on Luttrell's escape and rescue.  Of course, it puts a lot of focus on the decision by Luttrell not to kill some innocent civilians:

...The four Seals zigzagged all night and through the morning until they reached a wooded slope. An Afghan man wearing a turban suddenly appeared, then a farmer and a teenage boy. Luttrell gave a PowerBar to the boy while the Seals debated whether the Afghans would live or die.

If the Seals killed the unarmed civilians, they would violate military rules of engagement; if they let them go, they risked alerting the Taliban. According to Luttrell, one Seal voted to kill them, one voted to spare them and one abstained. It was up to Luttrell.

Part of his calculus was practical. "I didn't want to go to jail." Ultimately, the core of his decision was moral. "A frogman has two personalities. The military guy in me wanted to kill them," he recalled. And yet: "They just seemed like -- people. I'm not a murderer."

Luttrell, by his account, voted to let the Afghans go. "Not a day goes by that I don't think about that decision," he said. "Not a second goes by."

At 1:20 p.m., about an hour after the Seals released the Afghans, dozens of Taliban members overwhelmed them. The civilians he had spared, Luttrell believed, had betrayed them. At the end of a two-hour firefight, only he remained alive...

The best part of the WashPo article is the focus on the USAF rescue operation.  It will give you a decent view into what the pilots and Pararescuemen had to do to get Luttrell out of hostile territory.  It also focuses on the aftermath of the battle:

...Such happy moments have been rare for Luttrell. After recuperating, he deployed to Iraq, returning home this spring. His injuries from Afghanistan still require a "narcotic regimen." He feels tormented by the death of his Seal friends, and he avoids sleeping because they appear in his dreams, shrieking for help...

Froggy said it best in his post about Marcus on July 20, 2005:

It occurs to me that the ONE could use some prayer at this point in his life. It is about this time that someone in his situation might be asking himself questions about why he survived when ALL of his brothers did not. While he deserves every accolade we can give him, he probably needs our compassion and support more than anything else.

Compassion and support.  Reading Luttrell's book will give you and understanding of what our SOF forces go through in combat and the fight that continues here at home.  It will make you proud and humble.

Remember them.

Petty Officer Danny Dietz (SEAL Team 1)
Petty Officer Matthew Axelson (SEAL Team 1)
Navy Lt. Mike Murphy (SEAL Team 1)
Chief Warrant Officer Corey J. Goodnature (pilot, US Army 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment)
Chief Warrant Officer Chris J. Scherkenbach (pilot, US Army 160th SOAR)
Sgt. Kip A. Jacoby (US Army, 160th SOAR)
Sgt. 1st Class Marcus V. Muralles (US Army, 160th SOAR)
Chief Petty Officer Jacques J. Fontan (SEAL Team 10)
Lt. Cmdr. Erik S. Kristensen (SEAL Team 10)
Petty Officer 2nd Class James Suh (SEAL Team 1)
Petty Officer First Class Jeff Taylor (SEAL Team 1 medic)
Master Sgt. Michael Russell (US Army, 160th SOAR)
Maj. Steve Reich (pilot, US Army 160th SOAR)
Sgt. 1st Class James "Tre" Ponder III (US Army, 160th SOAR)
Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric Shane Patton (SEAL Team 1)
U.S. Navy Lt. Michael McGreevy (SEAL Team 10)
Petty Officer Jeffrey Alan Lucas (SEAM Team 10)
Senior Chief Petty Officer Dan Healy (SEAL Team 1)
SSgt. Shamus Goare (US Army, 160th SOAR)

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Comments

[Tantor]

The Washington Post also features some photos of our guys:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/photo/gallery/070608/GAL-07Jun08-77355/index.html?hpid=topnews

[afsister]

It'll be one of the hardest reads ever- and one I'm looking forward to. To hear the story, beginning to end and beyond, is something that EVERY American should read- no matter how hard it will be.

[Eric Shirley]

I preordered the book and read it a week ago in two sittings. Incredible heroism and determination. When my children are old enough to understand I will show them men like Luttrell, Dietz, Murphy, Axelson,et al. They are the heros children should know about. We are all lucky to have men like that "doing violence on our behalf". God bless them all.

[jordan]

Will do. Although those that know ugly combat might disagree, there's glory in courage, and victory in surviving.

I hope he doesn't hold his decision responsible for his team's eventual end. This is a weight the ONE is carrying for all Americans.

I wish all of our soldiers could be spared this, and that bad guys always got it indirectly, from far away, i.e., the fleeing Taliban fighters that drowned in the river. (Guess Abdul don't surf!)

Reminds me again of Lt. Clifton Cates' call from Belleau Wood in 1918:

"I have only two men out of my company, and 20 out of some other company. We need support but it's almost suicide to get it here as we are swept by machine gun fire and a constant barrage is upon us. I have no one on my left, and only a few on my right. I WILL HOLD."

Keep teaching, ONE.

[armynurseboy]

Man, that's the devil's choice isn't it? Kill civilians who more than likely will tell the enemy where you are, or kill them knowing that they posed no immediate danger to you.....

[Moe]

"Every man's life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another." (Ernest Hemingway)

We honor these men who died in the defense of America by remembering them and their heroism. This book will help us learn about these brave men who courageously gave all. We will not forget!

From a memorial speech,
" “Senior Chief Dan Healy was a great SEAL,” said Chief Warrant Officer Dave Bauer of his shipmate. “He was fiercely determined to face the enemy on the field of battle. I know of no other man I would want with me more when facing the enemy. All SEALs will forever be held to a higher standard because of what Dan Healy did.”

[Beth* A.]

The One,

Your brothers entrusted you with a last - absolutely vital - mission. You are here to tell their story. And you have honored their memories by doing so. May God bless them all, each and every one.

But not just for them were you spared. You are supposed to be here, Marcus Luttrell. Never doubt it for a moment.
And we are very, very glad that you are.

Prayers going out to you and your 'Pops'.

[Mommynator]

As a civilian, my comments are probably worthless, but I still think he made the right call under those circumstances even though it ended tragically.

Unfortunately, that is probably not a comfort to The One who bears the responsibility of the final decision. God grant him peace somehow, some day.

[Steve O.]

I will go ahead and repeat what I wrote in an earlier post on this subject:

I think it's important for all of us to remember these brave men but I think it's also important to remember the impact that their sacrifices have had on the GWOT as a whole. Like Danny's wife, Patsy, said when she stated that these men saw the evil and ran toward it, not away from it. They might have sacrificed their lives but from what I know, they damn sure took out a very large number of those evil bastards in the process. More importantly I think it sent a very strong indication to the enemy that Americans are NOT afraid to go and meet them in battle in the mountains, our Special Forces teams will go where the enemy is and bust the enemies'' asses. I think that the enemy now knows they are NOT dealing with the Soviets from the 80s. They know that we are much more dangerous than that and much more capable.
This SEAL team projected the true image of American bravery and determination into the Hindu Kush that I believe has ultimately made the enemy realize that they are NOT safe, anywhere.
Furthermore, I echo what Eric Shirley said in his post. In fact, I have already spoken of these heroes to my very young son. I have had some great conversations with Pops about that. It's very important to teach our kids that these heroes really do exist and these brave warriors will give their last breath to protect us.
I want to especially express my gratitude to Marcus Luttrell and his family not only for their service and sacrifice and what they have been through for the past two years but also for allowing us to get a glimpse into this most incredible story. These incredible people are always in my family's prayers.

- Steve O.

[Steve O.]

Beth* A.

I also echo what you posted as well. I couldn't have said it better.

- Steve O.

[Jeffrey]

Thanks for the tip on the book. It sounds like a remarkable story. I'll grab a copy tomorrow.

[mindy abraham]

Sounds good-I am finding that I am reading more books on military people-they seem to be amazing, and more interesting than fiction. How come?

[Teresa]

Beth* A is right. There is a story that we need to hear. But we also need to remember that we don't have any idea what lies ahead and what we will be called upon to do in the future. We have no idea who we influence for the better and what tiny changes we make as we go through life, that will make all the difference in the world to someone else.

I pray that Marcus finds peace, if anyone deserves it, he does.

[Sheri Payne]

Just FYI, Marcus, along with Murphy, Axelson, Healy, Suh, and Patton, were members of SEAL Delivery Vehicle 1, not SEAL Team 10.

Murphy is still up for the Medal of Honor, which is traditionally given at the 2nd anniversary. That would be June 28th.

[bthun]

What everyone said, but especially Beth*A and Steve O.

I salute you Marcus Luttrell, and your fallen brothers.

Your spirit and resolve lifts me every time I think of you and all of those who protect the rest of us. You are our nation's best... You are our finest.

bthun - PO2 - PreCarterSquid

Go Navy!

[The Wolf]

This conundrum is disturbing on so many levels; that these men would have to consider this in saving their mission, their lives and their duty, because it may be a 'criminal act' to do something so distasteful. Have we become so soft as a nation that we would would put them up to such examination? Have we completely forgotten what is required to survive? Think of it this way- the Tab's or the al Q's would have severed that family in an instant if the tables were turned- while I don't disparage ONE's decision or the team's, I am wondering how many other missions may have been affected because we were too afraid to 'act'.

In certain eyes, no one has a 'right' to live- and the Taliban and AQ will prove it if we let them.

The Warrior Code MUST be reinforced- every day. It wouldn't hurt to let John Q. Public be more aware of it either.

When we left a more-agrarian society, a more rural-based family existence, we lost our ability to learn what it is to be not just Americans but 'human'. The men we train to do what is necessary, like ONE, have that extra step to learn now.

I'm not advocating we go back to dragging knuckles, but damn, we have GOT to learn to Ranger Up a bit as a society.. there are people out there that truly, willfully, want to wipe us off the map, and will do so given ANY chance.

God bless ONE, his team, and their mission...

W

[MjC]

I've been visiting your site periodically to get a different perspective from what I see and hear through regular news outlets. After reading about these men, I had to respond.
Putting all political ideologies aside, the moral fortitude that was demonstrated by these men in not killing the civilian Afghanis was and is unique to the human condition. Nothing more can be said.

[JG]

"He feels tormented by the death of his Seal friends, and he avoids sleeping because they appear in his dreams, shrieking for help..."

Marcus, I would implore you to know peace in regard to your friends who, having passed through earthly travail, are in a place of reward and joy. It would be their last desire that you would live in torment. They will have been happy to know that you would tell their story.

You have decided that the Afghan civilians were, in fact, responsible for giving your group up to the Taliban. You cannot possibly know this. The passage of two full hours allows any number of other potential, yet unknown, things to have occurred which will always be impossible to determine. It is just as likely that they came upon you by accident or through some other unknown means. I will pray that you are able to come to see this.

In casting your votes that day, each of you must have known that there was a possible negative outcome, yet there was for each of you, compelling reasons of character and honor that bade you vote as you did. Two others refused to vote to kill without sure provocation. You were not the decider; three of you decided. There are no guarantees in life that in doing the right thing all will be well in the short term. Rest assured, however, there ARE guarantees in the long term.

We all have two dates assigned to us in the Book of Life. You lived and your friends did not because it was their time to pass but not yours. You have, as Robert Frost put it, "miles to go before you sleep". This is a decision that God alone has made and for His reasons alone. One must assume that you have tasks which are yet undone.

You did the right thing in a difficult circumstance. NEVER, ever regret being an honorable man. You are held in the deepest possible caring and highest esteem of your countrymen. I could not respect you more. Furthermore, if acceptance and peace were within my power to bestow, I would give them to you immediately and in full measure. I have not that power, but God can and will confer them upon you, if you can but open yourself to receive them.

I am eternally grateful to men such as yourself and those who died in the service of their country that day in Afghanistan. God bless and keep you always, Marcus.

[jordan]

That's a tough one, Wolf. Viewed on it's own, it was a noble decision. He indicated though, the prospect of going to jail was in the calculation. Why should this even occur to them in the middle of a dire situation like that? Because we've incessantly second-guessed and criticized in hindsight so many cases, even jailing some, and imposed rules of engagement that tilt the playing field in the enemy's favor.

People poo-poo the statement that, "You're getting more of our guys killed by criticizing in hindsight everything they do, and undermining their mission." This incident is what that statement means. Ultimately, though, Lutrell and his team reflect the innate goodness of the American soldier, selflessly sacrifricing for the good of others.

[exhelodrvr]

Wolf,
"Have we completely forgotten what is required to survive?"

I believe that happens quite a lot, when "potential collateral damage" carries too much weight in mission planning. You also see it in the investigations/recriminations involved with friendly fire incidents. This has often made the military overly cautious, which has the ultimate effect of causing more U.S. and civilian casualties.

[The WatchCat]

An extraordinary story of courage, tough calls, decency, and all the confusion of humanity.

Froggy is spot-on with his comment about praying for The One. But also pray for those whose names we do not know. Many bear similar burdens alone.

Point of Information: The Washington Post's story missed something important. The Shahada (declaration of Muslim faith) has two parts: 1)There is no god but God, 2)Muhammad is the messenger of God. Ash-hadu al-la ilaha ill-Allah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan abduha wa rasuluh. If Luttrell only repeated the first part, he would not be considered a Muslim. (Irregardless, it probably gained him the respect of the people.) But anyone who might ever be in this situation should be aware that it can be even more dangerous to be considered an apostate Muslim than a "person of the book" (Jew/Christian). If you ever think you might use this strategy, do your homework so that you can make the best judgment call possible.

[Cincinnati_Bob]

The One.

I pray for your peace and echo all those who are obviously doing the same. fwiw, I believe you did the right thing.

Your friends ARE in a better place in my humble opinion.

[JihadGene]

Thank you the "ONE". Prayers are being said for you, your family, and the families of your fallen comrades in arms.

[Eric Shirley]

Marcus Luttrell, You probably won't read this but if you do I want you to know this. My family and me owe you our freedom and our lives. I read your book and was riveted until the very end (I also read Warrior Elite Class 228 by Dick Couch). I wept for you and your friends but I also felt such a sense of awe. I will teach my children about you and your comrades. They will be good Americans and they will know what has been sacrificed for their freedom so that they can carry on with the dream of America. Our children are our legacy and they must know what has been done for them by people they can't and will never meet. God Bless you and the memory of your friends.

[Priscilla]

Pops, how very proud you must be of the men you've raised, and taught by example. My family and I are grateful beyond measure, counting ourselves lucky that you, yours and others believe our freedoms to be such a worthy endeavor.
Marcus, Morgan and all who serve, past and present, may the Heavens bestow endless comfort and healing upon you, one and all.

[Jack]

I picked the book up at Ft. Hood this weekend and started tearing through it today. I'm about half done and it's simply a gripping, moving account of our nation's finest, and the incredible courage shown in the face of overwhelming odds. Amazing.

My thoughts and prayers are with Marcus Luttrell, as well as the family, friends, and comrades of the fallen.

[douglas]

"Putting all political ideologies aside, the moral fortitude that was demonstrated by these men in not killing the civilian Afghanis was and is unique to the human condition."

No, the human condition would dictate killing them with no hesitation. These men demonstrated the moral fortitude and decency of our American military forces.

Marcus, when you were enduring your ordeal, we prayed for you and your comrades, we waited agonizingly for the latest confirmed and op-sec cleared news from Froggy, and we hoped that someday, you'd be honored rightly for your actions, and that you'd immortalize the spirit of your fallen friends by telling their story.

You had an impossible choice to make- there was no right or wrong answer- you did what your conscience dictated, and that was the right decision. Period. The road not travelled has unknown hazards of its own, which will never be revealed to us. Know only that we support you in your decision then, and your effort to come to terms with the results now. I thank God that there are men such as you who take upon themselves the burdens of our entire society, and my children will hold men such as you and your compatriots in the highest place of honor.

I don't know what else we can do, but whatever it is, there are many willing to do whatever we can for men like you.

God Bless you and Pops, and memory of those brave men from the Teams and SOAR that died in those mountains, for us. May we never forget their sacrifice.

[DOC]

New guy here, just wanted to confirm that Murph, Axe, Patton, Suh and Marcus were augmenting ST-10, but belonged to the 16-man "A" platoon at SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE (SDVT-1).
I appreciate all your awesome comments and praises for these guys.
Thanks, Doc

[Bill Faith]

I think I have a free review copy of the book on the way (the gent who said he'd send it came through with a free copy of a great Col. Bud Day bio not long ago) so I guess I'll be cheap and not order one from Amazon. Very much looking forward to reading it, not looking forward to trying to write the review I promised in return. Thanks for removing any doubts I might have had about wanting to read and review it.

[douglas]

Ugh, some bozo went over to Amazon and added a tag- "Mercenary" to the book. Incredibly inappropriate. Anyone know how to get Amazon to remove it?

[Bill Faith]

douglas, I don't but that might have something to do with why I had such a hard time finding a link to it on Amazon's site. I'll have a post up at my place, complete with a "buy it" button, in just a few minutes.

[Brian]

So a bunch of professional soldiers got killed. Well that's what they signed up for. Build a bridge people and get over it.

[douglas]

Brian, They were Sailors and Soldiers, and they signed up to defend the interests of our nation and our constitution, and thereby our very way of life. That (unfortunately) means you are included in what they were fighting for. How about you find at least enough respect for those brave men to keep your pie hole shut?

[mindy abraham]

To Brian-I know that that is their job, but that does not mean I still can't feel sorry for a guy who has been through something very traumatic right? What happend to compassion?

[bthun]

Mindy,

As a seasoned citizen, I might suggest that you save your energy and breath.

If Brian had the capacity for compassion, he would not have shot off his yap with such tripe in the first place.

It's best to ignore the little folk. They grow smaller with each passing day.

[Blackfive]

Mindy - Have to agree with bthun here. Avoid responding to idiots.

BTW, just keep in mind that, most likely, Brian wouldn't have the guts to say that to Marcus Luttrell or Froggy (or us) in person.

[MaryAnn]

We may call you The One, but you have never been alone. God bless you always.

[JihadGene]

Brianne.....

In Norf Korea we hab this saying...SHUT UP YOU MOUSE!!!
This be ploof, once again, dat the asshole doesn't fall very far from da tree of Daily KOS.

Rub yooo looooong time!
Great Reader, KIM Jong Il

PS As his son is The One....POPS...you are #1, truly.

[Mr. Chips]

A very similar incident occurred during the 1st Gulf War when a SF observation team was inserted into Iraq. Their position was discovered by a small child, and the team had to decide if they should kill the kid or hope that he didn't reveal their position. They let the child go, and of course the child revealed their location. This team managed to get out intact, however.

[red river]

I hope Marcus' physical and spiritual pain eases as it usually does. Texas is proud of him and his teammates.

As for the team getting caught out, it could be a number of things. The Afghanis know their mountains very well and just a few men with binos, a radio, and a good place to sit can spot just about anyone.

[Swede]

Dickhead,

Nobody signs up to die.

However, sometimes that happens in the performance of your duty.

Knowing that, we do it anyway.

See the difference?

Probably not.

[Steve O.]

Swede;

I love your email address! Classic!

I agree with Blackfive on this one too. People, don't get all worked up over idiots like Brian. He's probably this way because he suffers from having an extremely small penis. Its OK Brian, I hear that they have surgical procedures available for people like you these days.

I suggest you check into it.

[Synova]

I find the decision not to kill non-combatants such as this one or the incident Mr. Chips mentioned, inspiring. And I do think that it is unique *in* the human condition. (Which is how I read the statement someone made up there.)

I don't know what inspiration to one middle aged lady is worth, but I know it makes me proud of our men. And it's only in hind-sight that the decision can be questioned. Looking forward isn't so easy as that.

Hind-sight is a lie, though. Because it's impossible to know what would have happened had different decisions been made.

[TC]

I agree with you Wolf. I have to work in emergency medicine deciding in the hot zone whether or not my actions can get me put in prison for making a wrong choice. It is a sad commentary that Marcus and his team had to do that on a mountainside on a mission. We are raising a nation of "Candy Asses", excuse my farsi, that having to go to jail came into the decision makes me want to scream...probably at a liberal politician.

My prayer for Marcus is that my cohorts who are treating war trauma will be able to help him find the peace and quiet slumber that he deserves. May Pops and Mom have the grace and where with all to walk well with their spirit wounded son in the years to come. Sometimes it is easier to deal with a wound others can see, than the one they can't. May God bless you and keep you all. As for the rest of us; perhaps we need to grow a back bone.

[HomefrontSix]

Marcus ~ You have been in my prayers since day 1. And there you remain. As does the rest of your team and the crew of the 160th bird that went to help you.

Pops ~ thank you for raising such an incredible man. You're in my prayers too.

The book is on its way.

[Sammy D]

Thanks for the heads up on the book, Matt, and others for your great comments. Reading this one will make attending the ceremony on July 4th for Danny's memorial statue all the more meaningful.

[Pops]

To everyone who has responded here today, I thank you and I salute you (Brian - Your's is a California Howday). You have been my support group throughout this entire ordeal. Froggy you take care of yourself!! I hope all of you got to see the Today Show this morning "The One" handled himself well. Tonite he will be on Anderson Cooper on CNN and tomorrow he will be on Joe Cavilo (you guys know I can't spell for shit) on Fox. I don't know if this is the beginning or the end, but here he is in living color, operational security is out the window, buy the book and you'll even get a look at my ugly old ass. Lone Survivor go get you one!
To the families of all the Fallen, you are in my heart and on my mind on a daily basis, I love you all. We all died on that Mountain, that day!
Love
Pops

[MjC]

Douglas, I am not sure if you misread my comment but I said, "unique (synonyms- exceptional, matchless, rare) to the human condition." What I meant by that is if it were any other human being, there would have been no doubt as to the outcome. They would have killed the civilian Afghanis.
The soldiers' behavior readily shows their altruistic sacrifice.

[Steve O.]

Pops;

I picked up the book today (and all my friends did as well) and I Tivo'd the Today Show this morning on my way out the door heading for work.

I don't know Pops, you looked OK to me:-) A grizzled tough veteran!!!!

Please pass along my best to Marcus, Morgan, and Mrs. Luttrell. We're all here for you!!!!

- Steve O.

[Terri]

My thoughts and prayers go out to Marcus, his family and the families of his fallen commrades. We've also got a post up about Marcus's book at A Soldier's Mind.

[Richard]

Pops,

The book is on its way but even before reading it, I know you can be very proud of Marcus. I had the opportunity of seeing him on the Today show today and agree that he did very well. As someone who has been in TV interview situations before, I will say that he will become more and more used to it as he goes along. I was impressed with how respectful he was and I could see there is much within him when it came to the questions that he was asked. Please convey our appreciation to him and let him know that he is not alone. There are many of us praying for him, his colleagues, fallen comrades and their families.

Thank you to you and your wife for raising sons that we can all be proud of as fellow Americans. We need more men of such character and commitment in our country.

[Karen L]

I just heard the story of Marcus Luttrell's horrific incident in Afghanistan. I would like to say something to him, but know that he probably won't see this. I've looked for a direct email source to Marcus Luttrell but only found this.

Mr. Luttrell, here in this blog there are so many wonderful and true comments that I wholey support and applaud. I couldn't say these same thoughts any better. I mostly want to tell you that you must be strong now that you are back. Please stay strong. And even though there may be times when you are walking through your day and you see people who seem to not have a care in the world and that may give you so much added pain because of what you have been through, please please know that the reason you were spared is vital. Absolutely vital. You have a "ministry" per se, you were spared for a reason, but not because you were more deserving than any other. Each person played a part in that terrible fight. A very significant part. And your part is continuing here amongst us.

I wish you strength, total healing and peace in understanding. Your experience is a gift to people. A very painful gift, but still a gift. Share it, but listen to your soul about what else you should do. I wish you all of the very best.
Karen Hilal Livingston
Humble, Texas

[Gina Marie]

Pops,

we have been praying for "The One",your family,and his fallen comrades since the very beginning. We are forever in their debt, and we will not forget.

For Marcus
bring him on back here to Texas because nothing soothes the soul like a little bit of home.
May God keep you and watchover you, Marcus Luttrell.

[Pops]

To Gina Marie, et al.
Marcus has work to do and he will do it! He will be back in Texas soon. Check The Borders Bookstore, The Woodlands this Saturday! This has been an extremely difficult period in all of our lives. If you watched the interview this AM you could see see the effect that it had.
Thank you all for your kind comments, for your constant prayers, and for the support that you have given me and my family through the years. Don't forget the other SEALs in Harms Way, may GOD Bless them and watch over them.
POPS OUT

[douglas]

MjC, I think I read it correctly, though it may not have been written as you intended- but the important point is, we agree- these guys are something else. Men to be looked up to and respected.

[Eric]

I have had the pleasure of knowing Marcus and his brother for several years. I have not spoken to or seen them in a long time but I cant tell you how proud I am to even know them a little. My two sons will here this story when the are old enough and read this book! I read it in one sitting and I really hope to see Marcus soon and tell him this face to face. Did this previous post mean he would be signing copies at borders this weeekend?

[Pops]

Yes he will be signing books.

[Steve O.]

Pops;

My Pastor friend and I also have him covered with prayers. Hey, how can I get Marcus to sign my book? Pops, shoot me an email.

Froggy, we're thinking about, my friend.

[Wesley B]

When I saw the interview on the today show, I could not beleive I was looking at the same gangly kid who used to cause all that trouble in the hallways with his brother. I can never get used to seeing how war changes people. I hope he gets a chance to go back to Willis, catch a fish in Lake Conroe and enjoy a little RR. He and his family have been in my thoughts and prayers.

Can't wait to read the book.

Wildkat '96

[John]

I saw Marcus on TV this morning and haven't done a bit of work since. What an impressive appearance. I ordered the book and emailed my friends and told them to do the same. We need to know this stuff. If anyone thinks the greatest generation only lived in the forties, just spend a couple of hours finding out about these men. Good job, Pops. If Marcus does a book tour, please post the locations here. I would love to shake his hand.

[JG]

John: "If Marcus does a book tour, please post the locations here. I would love to shake his hand".

I could not agree more - it would be an honor to shake his hand.

[Pathfinder Mom]

Since I live in College Station, I absolutely WILL be in The Woodlands this weekend to pick up my copy of the book (and Matt's too while I'm there!) but I was on the Amazon.com site a little while ago and this "review" (if you want to call it that) was there -- what drugs is this idiot on anyway? Angel Dust? They say that causes delusional thoughts! It made me so mad -- can't wait until Saturday!

" HEROISM'S MANY FORMS, June 12, 2007
By ATTICUS (NEW YORK, NY)

Luttrell's endurance, bravery, and self sacrifice are undeniable. Hats off to him for his actions in Kunar. Readers should know, however, that the man who saved Luttrell, the Afghani Muhammed Gulab, got dumped unceremoniously by Luttrell, the SEALs, Coalition forces, and the U.S. For helping to save Luttrell Gulab came under the threat of death from the Tali and was forced to leave his village, never to return. He is a simple wood merchant. He fled to Asadabad where he was given menial work at the Coalition base there. Luttrell, according to Gulab, promised him money to resettle himself and his family. He never received a sou. Later, he tried to get in touch with Luttrell, to no avail. Calls and emails were not returned. Worse still, when he talked about these issues with a Newsweek correspondent based in Islamabad, American forces incarcerated him at the Asadabad base for days, interrogating him without ever telling him what he had done to deserve such treatment; his questioners wanted to know why he had talked to Newsweek about unfulfilled promises. He was terrified. He remains confused. His life is in ruins. He can't go home. He was too afraid for his life even to visit the village for his mother's funeral. If he had saved your life -- as he did Luttrell's -- you surely would do everything in your power to repay Gulab. Wouldn't you? Has Luttrell given or even pledged any of his book advance and royalties to Gulab? Gulab doesn't think so. Luttrell in the book says he offered his wristwatch and money but Gulab refused. Please. Luttrell should not insult the readers' intelligence. The sum I heard was $20,000. Never to be fulfilled. Long forgotten. This is a hearts-and-minds issue. Counter-insurgency can never succeed if we treat people as Gulab has been treated. And one last point: Gulab says he helped Luttrell less out of compassion than because he reckoned that the Coalitiion forces would not bomb his village in retaliation for the attacks on the Redwing team if the village helped one Redwing team member to survive. Guess what? Once Luttrell was safe again, Coalition forces bombed Gulab's village, killing 17 civilians, women and children. Commanders at Bagram later apologized to President Kharzai who had demanded an explanation. Luttrell did a good job getting himself out of a tight spot, but the aftertaste of Redwing is somewhat bitter, and should be known and told."

Then, a Mr. Alfred Suprenant (anyone know him?)posted this: (Thank you Alfred!)

"By Albert H. Surprenant - See all my reviews

The Atticus Review is a disgraceful uninformed lie. The United States Navy stepped up immediately to help Gulab. Who was a policeman not a woodsman.
As Marcus Lutrell stated on the Today show ,the same Ancient tribal law that saved his life, forbid the American Admirals from rewarding Gulab in anyway personally. Any rewards had to be for the benefit of the entire village.
The Navy provided the Village with its first generators to produce their first ever electricity and drove in the first black-top road there had ever been to this mountainside village. Luttrell was there serving as a seal in Iraq at the time.
What a tragedy it would be if Atticus's warped misguided sense of injustice should blind anyone to the true quality of a book like LONE SURVIVOR.
Marcus Luttrell is a great American who continually put his life on the line for his country .
Anyone who writes a review like that is not fit to ties the shoes laces of an American hero like Marcus Luttrell.
After seeing Lutrell on the Today Show I bought and read this book in one day.
This is a riveting Memoir about courage, honor and loss that will live with me forever."

One of my sons is 33 today -- I have them from 31 to 42 -- are we raising a nation of idiots now or do they all just seem to congregate in the same place?

My heartfelt thanks and appreciation go out to Matt and all of you on here for making me so proud to be an American and to work for the United States Military.

[ozzie]

From the Land Down-Under,from those of us who serve our country and carry out the same,we salute you Marcus and brothers-in arms

[Pops]

Well, I was about to go online and tear Atticus a new ASS but once again my fellow Americans have done it for me. Well done people, keep up the good work. Also if any of you read Newsday, cut Mr. Murphy some slack. He was either misquoted or confused. Me and mine love him and his family. We share a common bond. We should not air our laundry in public.
Pops Out

[mindy abraham]

To pops, if you do not see it there, I just want to say I wish your son well and thanks.

[Bill Briggs]

Hey Marcus, I went to SHSU with you several years ago. I remember you and your brother training to join the seals and how yall would swim Lake Conroe to prepare. How so long ago. I was in Virginia for Officer school when I heard about you by some friends in Huntsville. My friends, family, and fellow LTs in my class prayed for you and all your buddies. I still say a prayer every night for our soldiers. I'm going to read your book, I just wish a book like this never had to be written. I hope time will heal. My prayers go out to you. Sincerely. 1LT William Briggs. bill.briggs@lennar.com

[Gina Marie]

Pops,
Froggy and all our men and women in harms way, stay in my family's daily prayers, we won't leave them out.
If you can, please post any tour dates when you know for Marcus. I have people asking if he'll be going anywhere other than here.
Thanks and take care,
Gina

[FastGuns]

Hey POPS!
It's your neice(cousin - ha ha) here!!! I got the book yesterday, as you know and started it last night, I think I fell asleep with it in my hands, I just couldn't stay up any later to keep reading.

you know I love you all and I am SO proud of Marcus for what he is doing now and what they have both done in the past. I'll be seeing Morgan soon, but please pass on to Marcus that I love him and hope I can see him soon too!!

LOVE YOU POPS!

[Pops]

Hi kid! Love you too! To all, My neice is training to be an Apachie pilot! In my family even the women are warriors! You stay safe kiddo!
Love Pops

[Steve O.]

Pops, FastGuns;

Outstanding! We need some more great warriors!!!!

Goodluck & Godspeed FastGuns! Give 'em Hell!!!!

- Steve O.

[bthun]

"an Apache pilot!"

Is this old coot jealous or what? Just to be clear, that was a self-reference folks.

Niece of Pops, you take care and when the time comes, happy huntin’!

What a family ya got there Pops!

[Pops]

The reunions are special! Ask any SEAL! If they haven't been there, they have heard of it!

[Jeffrey]

Pops,
I just read your son's marvelous book. It took me about 10 hours, and a box of kleenex. I simply couldn't put it down, nor could I stop the tears from coming and soaking its pages. "Lone Survivor" should be made mandatory reading for every American citizen. You raised an exemplary man, and an honorable warrior.

[Marsha]

I read this book into the wee hours of the morning, tears streaming down my face, trying to imagine and not being able to even come close to what these young men must feel. How I wish that Marcus could stand in front of every single liberal congressman and woman in DC and make sure they understand the part THEY play every single day with out soldiers lives. May God continue to bless Marcus and his family and comfort those who so valiantly gave their lives in a land far away and against an enemy without remorse or decency.

[Patrick]

It's actually a good thing they did not kill the civilians since under US Law and the ROE it would be considered a criminal offense if there was no hostile act or intent. So good judgment there.

I'm waiting for my copy to be delivered, but am wondering why the team did not evade as soon as they were discovered?

Best of luck to Marcus and Pops and thank you for sharing your story.

[piper]

Bought the book last night after seeing this post and seeing Marcus on the Today show. Remarkable read - thank you for telling the story!

I am torn between wanting to pass this book on after I am done so my friends can read of the heroism of remarkable men, or telling the gang
to keep their grubby hands off of my (non-fiction) Book Of The Year and get their own copy...!

[Andrea]

Hi Guys,

I will be interviewing Leading Petty Officer Luttrell on my Sunday night radio program (June 24th) at 9 p.m. EDT on WDBO AM 580 in Orlando -- it is streamed (www.wdbo.com). You and your readers are invited to tune in.

Andrea Shea King
RadioPatriot.blogspot.com

[Ryan Byrd]

Mr. Luttrell,

You may remember me from Mark and Morgan's Jr.High and High School days (i stayed at your house many a weekend). I started my day as anyother, turned on the Today Show as i began work and to my surprise i see Marc talking to Matt Lauer! We all lost contact after graduation (i did see Morgan at Hatcher's wedding about 10 years ago and he caught me up on the goings on of Marc and his Navy ambitions.) I would like to make contact with him if possible and would appreciate any contact info you can give me. here is an e-mail address i have set up that you can contact me at or have Marc contact me: ryanbbx@yahoo.com

Ryan Byrd

[TC]

I got this book as a Father Day present and I havent put it down since yesterday. I cant put it down.
What a riveting tale of extraordinary heroism !As an AF O-4 aviator type my service pales in comparison to these SOF Warriors of the Teams. I lost a college classmate in Team 2 in Panama in '89 and I still see his face shining at our commissioning ceremony 20 years ago this year. God Bless you you John.

Marcus, you are my hero. You and your teammates who stand ready to guard freedom and do with cold steel and expert efficiency.

TC

[Lorraine]

I live in South Africa so sadly I will not get to meet "The One". I have ordered my copy of his book and I'm happy that after nearly two years I finally know his name. I hope he knows how many people were praying for him in July 2005. I remember the words to the first prayer I said. "Bring them back alive and you can take any member of my family." In part it appears my prayer was answered. I once described the SEALs to a friend as living, breathing, real life versions of superman. If ever I found myself in the same room as a SEAL I'd be torn between falling to my knees and passing out.
God Bless them ALL and their families.

[Chris Sharon]

I am reading the book every chance I get. I have watched the interview with Matt Laure. I know our service members do not get credit for what they do therefore I ask as a Marine (on civilian duty) we all pray for our service members.

To Marcus I thank you for your book I am captivated and want to keep reading. When I get the rough part I will reflect on my Marine buddies and pray for you to continue on in your success.

Please contact me anytime @ csharon@iadfw.net.

I hope you get to be a doctor here is Dallas so I can meet you soon.

God Bless

[Jimmy]

The book "Lone Survivor" is truly an awsome book. Shane Patton was one of the U.S. Navy SEALs on that CH-47 that was shot down. He is my brother. I have made a blog with pics of him and videos, so check it out and comment if you want. http://www.shanepatton.blogspot.com

[Emily]

I was getting dressed to go to the doctor for an ongoing health issue and I had the television on. I could hear Mr. Luttrell talking to Matt Lower, and it brought tears to my eyes. Words can not describe how I small I felt. It really puts everything in perspective.
I want all of those who have served, or lost loved ones that you are all in my thoughts and in my prayers.
It saddens me that Mr. Luttrell is suffering from chronic pain. I pray that in time it gets easier- for him and for all of those who have suffered or lost family members. It hurts to read about those who have lost loved ones. I wish I could do something to help!

I can not imagine having gone through anything as horrific as Marcus Luttrell went through. I can not imagine what those who gave their lives must have gone through. I can only hope that they realize they will never be forgotten and I pray they never feel alone.

I saw that Marcus Lattrell stated he wanted to go to Medical School. If you do- I wish you luck. I hope you are finding ways to deal with your own pain!
Oh- and if you know anything about actinomycosis- PLEASE let me know- or at least inform the doctors on the east coast!

Those who have lost family members, loved ones and/or a piece of themselves - you are all in my prayers and in my thoughts!
Emily

[Kelly]

A co-worker of mine recommended "Lone Survivor" to me last week. I bought it on Thursday and finished it by Saturday. I am now recommending this book to my other co-workers and all of my students (I teach EMS). Honestly I cannot remember the last time that I read a book that made me cry...repeatedly. In all my life the only other things that have been as emotionally stirring to me was 9/11 and also my childhood bestfriend's fight against cancer (which unfortunately she did not survive). On a more personal note, I'm happy to see the family of Texas coming together. I have family from Nacogdoches/Garrison and I love how warm and caring Texans are, hopefully now everyone else does too. In addition, although I tend to be more liberal than conservative on most issues, I couldn't agree more with Mr. Luttrell. It's the people serving our Country, fighting for us everyday that need to be the ones to make the decisions about Rules of Engagement, not someone sitting in an office thousands of miles away from the front lines. My heart goes out to you, your family, and all the families who lost a loved one at any point/event brought about because of hatred and our fight against terrorism. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

[Michael Newman]

The Danny Dietz Memorial Sculpture will be dedicated at a formal ceremony July 4, 2007 at 11 a.m. at the Berry Park extension, 5507 South King Street. The public is welcome.

The ceremony will feature speeches by Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter; the Admiral in charge of Naval Special Warfare; United States Congressman Tom Tancredo; Medal of Honor recipient Mike Thornton; and Tiffany Bitz, Danny Dietz’s sister. Littleton Mayor Jim Taylor will emcee.

The Littleton Community Band will perform the Star Spangled Banner and Navy Hymn. An honor guard from the Denver Navy Operational Support Center will present the colors and F-16s will fly overhead to start the ceremony. The benediction will be delivered by Pastor Larry Herrera. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the sculpture will be unveiled.

Parking will be available at Centennial Elementary, Goddard Middle School, Bowles Grove Park and the Arapahoe County warehouse at 5251 S. Federal Boulevard.

Dietz was killed in Afghanistan June 28, 2005. Dietz is the only Littleton resident known to have died in action in current Middle East conflicts. In September, 2006, the Dietz family accepted the Navy Cross on Danny’s behalf.

Dietz was raised in Littleton and attended Centennial Elementary, Goddard Middle School, and graduated from Heritage High School. His parents, Dan and Cindy, still live in the neighborhood.

The fundraising goal for the Danny Dietz Memorial was achieved thanks to the generous support of local businesses, restaurants and citizens. Following the successful December 8, 2006 reception at the Littleton Historical Museum, more than $42,000 was raised to pay for the sculpture, flagpole, lighting and engraving.

On December 20, 2006, the Dietz family selected Canon City Artist Robert Henderson to design a bronze sculpture of Dietz. The sculpture is based on a photograph of Dietz taken in Afghanistan shortly before he died.

The city budgeted funds in 2007 to develop the vacant lot in the neighborhood where Dietz grew up. It is an extension of Berry Park and will feature landscaping, a walking path and the sculpture of Dietz.

[Andi]

To Pops,
I have been enamored by this story since I heard Marcus on Glenn Beck(on the radio, not tv!), then of course I googled everything I could find out about it. First of all, he did such a good job in his interviews, was so polite, and was not ashamed to speak the damn truth about war. I am a fellow proud Texan, daughter of a Vietnam vet, and I live in Corpus Christi, but my brother and sister live in Montgomery. My Barnes and Noble and every bookstore in a 100 mile radius is out of stock (this was last week) so I had to order it online and it won't be here until Monday! UGH! What I have learned thus far is that Marcus is an extraordinary man, hero, friend, and soldier. He has been in my prayers every night. While researching I scrolled through some nasty comments and I just want to rip their "candy ass" heads off! I didn't think men like Marcus still existed and I am proud to know that they do. What a fine job you did raising him, sir. There are no words to describe my gratitude for what he has gone through and as Glenn says, "I get it." I hope he finds peace and love and everything else he desires.

[Donny]

I just finished reading the book. It was hard to put it down but also one of the hardest books to read...it is very well written but the sense of honor, sorrow, bravery and compassion tend to leave you with a very un-settling feeling. I too am a poud Texan and have the utmost respect and admiration for Marcus and anyone willing to serve our country under these conditions. My oldest son is a Marine and on his way to Iraq. Every American should sit down and read this book...maybe some would remember what being an American and a patriot is all about. It would be a supreme honor just to shake the hand of this fine American.

[Peeker643]

I walked into the house after work last night at 6pm. On the counter was an Amazon box. A friend had sent me a copy of "Lone Survivor". I looked at the jackets and started reading the book. I finished it at 130am. I could not put the book down.
I'm a big reader of modern war books starting with a friend handing me "Bravo Two Zero" and including Jarhead, The Gift of Valor, Shooter, One Bullet Away, etc.
But this book was by far and away the most captivating book I've read. I'm 40 and I never served. My one life-long regret. Not for glory lost or any of that but because I'll miss out on the bonds and relationships forged through the crucible of service and all it entails.
Al I know is that these men fought savagely, bravely and heroically. Marcus's rifle never left his side on that hill, regardless of what part of it he was falling off. He's here for a reason. Whether it's to forever memorialize the efforts of his comrades or whether it's to call attention to a system that trains the greatest fighters in the world only to neuter them in the name of media image.
But he's here for a reason.
I can't praise him or the young men in those war zones enough. Making decisions like they made, everyone a life and death choice, is difficult with 40 or 50 years of life experience to guide you. But at 22 or 23 years of age, to make those decisions and then be responsible for them with one's own life and the life of one's closest friends is a magnficent responsibility.

I'm proud of him and I'm proud of every one of the men and women who voluntarily assume that responsibility and who make those sacrifices for this country.

God bless them.

[Alan MacKay]

I ordered Petty Officer Luttrell's book and received it two days later from Amazon..I read most of it on Wednesday night...Last night I read a paragraph to my wife and she asked me to continue...nearly three hours later: Hoarse, crying and exhausted, we went to bed..What a story! I served from 66-70 (Air Force Air Traffic Controller) and I am now nearly 62 years of age...never have I been so captured by a story. It made me proud to have served and to be an American.

[Bucky]

Pops and fellow warriors,

The events of this day, two years ago, were epic and shall forever be remembered by those of us who struggled hour by hour, minute by minute, to rescue these great men – the SEALs and their rescuers. Not a day goes by that I don’t wish we had done better.

Marcus,

You must heal and rise above all of this. Your brothers have entrusted you to live life to its fullest. Make it so, my friend. Live the life of 19! Do so with a big heart, and a recklace passion for life. You have earned the right to do so.

Know this… the lessons that we (the CSAR community) have learned from your experience continue to save the lives of husbands, brothers and sons who follow behind you. In this way, you have already made a difference in being the “One”. There will undoubtedly be other lone survivors who follow you. Be there for them, as only you can. Make that your badge of honor.

I look forward to reading your book.

Godspeed,

Bucky

[Melody]

There are not enough words in the English language to express the awe and gratitude I have for all of our men and women serving in harm's way. What I would offer in an attempt to express it is to say that I hope my sons turn out to be anywhere near as brave and honorable as Marcus Luttrell and the men who served with him. I pray for you all every day.

It took me two nights to finish the book, not because I wanted to put it down, but because I had to stop or I would not have been able to work the next day. I hope every member of Congress takes the time to read what their crappy policies do to our fighting men and women.

Has anyone thought of getting a fund together to help Marcus fulfill his plans of going on to medical school? That he intends to make a career of helping others speaks volumes - on top of all that he has already done. I too have a son who wants to attend medical school and the cost is out of this world. The thought of Marcus Luttrell, after all of his sacrifices for the rest of us, having to borrow all that money and be in debt for the rest of his life just makes me sick. I do not know how to go about initiating such a thing, but I would love to contribute.

[Brett]

I had the pleasure of working with Marcus at the 249th field Medical Hospital. He would spend his off time with us helping out with the local nationals and soldiers. It was a very happy morning when we were notified that he had returned alive!! Marcus if you want that black medical bag back, let me know!!
Brett

[KC]

Marcus, I just read the article in the Chronicle about the book, and I hope to be at Barnes & Noble on Memorial in Houston on July 9th to buy the book and meet you and express my gratitude to you in person. I know these are mere words that can't take away the pain or guilt of being the ONE who made it home, but you have my utmost respect and my eternal gratitude. I can't imagine having to make that choice, but someday I hope you will come to the realization that you made the only choice you could LIVE with. You and your team knew the risks and the possible consequences and you did the honorable thing. We all wish the outcome would have been different, but the story of your brave team will live on because of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers as are the families of your team. May God bless you and comfort you in his loving grace

[Paul A'Barge]

Those "innocent civilians" didn't turn out to be so innocent after all, did they?

According to the chron.com article, they goat herders promptly went to the Taliban and turned in the Seals who had spared their lives.

Lesson? Next time, kill them all.

[Mike Riley]

I wish I could find some different words than so many others have already posted to express my feelings and gratitude to Marcus, Mike, Danny, Axe and every other hero who has put their life on the line for their country.
I believe it should be a requirement for every member of Congress, the Supreme Court, Vice President and President to have served in the military - preferably in wartime. Maybe then they would heed Marcus's words of wisdom - if the thought of innocent people getting killed is too horrible - then don't go to war. Korea, Vietnam, Somalia, Kuwait / Iraq the first time, and today. We continue to play by rules the other side doesn't believe in. Our bravest and best pay the price over and over and each time the liberals crucify them, we withdraw and the evil festers only to be dealt with again.
I finished the book in two days, it brought tears to my eyes many times. When the bombing first started in Afghanastan my daughter saw my eyes were moist and asked me what was wrong. I told her a lot of very good men were going to be killed, and probably when all was said and done we'd leave and things would go back to where they'd been before. God I hope I'm not right - but Nancy and her clan, and our wonderful press seem to have the stage all set again. Thank God we still have young men like this who willingly offer their very existence for their belief in our Country. I'm only afraid that unless we enter a conflict with full devotion to win it such brave souls may one day tire of coming forward. But then I again - these type of men could never NOT come forward - they do what their heart tells them is right.
This story would humble anyone. If there is ever anything I could do for Marcus Luttrell I would be eternally grateful. If I ever have a chance to shake his hand it would be a far greater honor than meeting any President - past, present or future. Thank you Marcus, and God's best to the Luttrell family and every other one of our brave servicemen.

[Dennis Hogue]

The only way I've been able to describe this book is WOW! One of my best friends from high school spent 22 years as a SEAL, during which time I spent 15 in the Air Force. Even though my friend had told me about his training, and despite the fact I had worked side by side with some of these supreme warriors, it didn't hit me just how dedicated, talented, committed (and every other possible superlative one could possibly conceive) until I read Marcus' account from up on that dreary mountainside.

I read the book to my wife and we both wept at the courage, determination, desperation, frustration and love these fellow warriors shared during this battle.

I've heard many utterances of faith and prayer as I read the book and as I've perused these postings. I couldn't help thinking of these bravest of the brave offering their lives for each of us, and in a more immediate sense, for each other. I think the Son of God said it best (and who could possibly know better than He) when He said "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

May God continue to bless Marcus and the families of each of those called upon to offer the ultimate sacrifice. It's pretty obvious Marcus has been spared for a reason; I look forward to reading "the rest of the story."

[Kendra]

I saw Marcus on Fox Houston this morning and was impressed and intrigued by his respectfulness, pride and dedication for his country and his comrades, and candidness about the war – very refreshing to hear these words out of the mouth of someone there and someone from my generation. Pops – your family has raised a fantastic ONE!

I jumped on line and googled everything I could about Marcus and his team – AMAZING and INSPIRING! One more reason I’m proud to be an American and thankful for the men and women in uniform who protect my family and I every day. We all make choices every day of our lives, but most of the time, our choices don’t affect the lives of others; not in your case. I commend you and your team on making the decision you did – a decision had to be made.

To the families of those who have passed and to Marcus and your family – Your courage and actions are appreciated more words could possible say; I send love and loads of prayers to you all. I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through, but if there is anything I can do, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Again, thank you for all you have done. It’s because of all of you that we live in the greatest country in the world!

**I haven’t read the book, only an excerpt online, but will be at Barnes & Noble for the book signing today on Memorial. Looking forward to meeting Marcus.

[Daylon Brady]

I just finished the book and I read it in two days. I could not put it down. What those men went through for our country is without words to describe. The United States needs to wake up and fight jihad like we fought the Axis Powers of WW2. A WW2 Ranger group would not have thought twice about silencing the 3 Afgan civilians, knowing they would be compromised if they did not. War is not fair and sometimes innocent people die and sometime people are in the wrong place at the wrong time. This does not make our troops murders. The USA should be ashamed of prosecuting our boys as murders until they have seen what these men has seen and done.

One other thing we need to not stop at some border to because our enemy has crossed it. If the Taliban go into Pakistan then we go after them. If Iranians are arming Iraqi insurgents we go into Iran.

God Bless these me and God Bless the USA!!

[Brett]

I just want to give my respect to Marcus and his boys. As a Marine infantryman and two time OIF vet I have nothing but respect for you guys. Anyone who has been in true combat understands that it's hard to come home without your brothers. The guilt of survival is hard to bare, but like you said in the book, you had to come home to tell the story. Those patriots will never die as long as we continue to tell their stories and remember what they did for all of us.

[Andiq2007]

To Pops Once Again,
I posted a while back before I had received the Marcus' book. I read it in 2 days and woulda been sooner had I not had to work, cook dinner, pee, and walk my dog! It was gut-wrenching and brutal and probably one of the most important books I have ever read. In some places I had to catch my breath and I would just stare into space trying to even comprehend the situation. I loved the conversational style of writing and the fact that he is a Texan just makes it even better! My neices are growing up swimming and fishing and hunting and climbing trees and running around barefoot in East Texas and loving every minute of it (all thanks to Marcus). Marcus is an inspiration to me and I seriously think of him at least 10 times a day. The whole thing overwhelmed my thoughts and still does, honestly. I have passed the book on to my dad (even though I spoiled parts for him because I just had to tell somebody) but I bet I'll read it again in the near future. I'm wondering if Marcus is married? I know he has a million friends and loved ones but I haven't read anything on his wife. I hope I get to meet him one day and shake his hand and look him in the eye and tell him how much I appreciate his sacrifice for me and the rest of this nation.

[cda]

pops,

thank you for your families contribution to protecting our great country. I only hope one day to raise my children to have the character, integrity, love of country, etc., that you and your wife instilled in your sons.

It looks like I missed the opportunity to get a book signed as Marcus has already been to The Woodlands Borders. Any chance since it is so close to home, that Marcus will be back in the The Woodlands area? I have never been one to seek and autograph, but this one is worthy, not so much to get it, but shake the hand of your son. He and his brothers will never be forgotten by this American. I picked up the book from Borders this past Monday and finished it early Wednesday morning. I almost skipped work on Tuesday, it was that gripping.

In your communications, please tell the parents of those fallen HEROES that Americans are truly indebt to them for raising such great individuals, unselfish, patriotic, etc. There are so many words that could be used to describe them.

Let us know if Marcus intends to sign more books closer to home. Would love to meet and thank him personally.

CDA, The Woodlands.

[vanbebber03]

Hi Marcus,
I'm not sure if you will get a chance to read this (I know you are super busy right now), but I just want you to know you and your family are in my thoughts and in my prayers. I just recently purchased your book and have heard nothing but great things about it...and I can't wait to read it. Will you be doing anymore book signings in this area? I missed the one here in Houston, Big E said it was great!
You are such an inspiration to so many. It is wonderful to see how many people you have touched... I wish you the best in your future...and know that whatever you do, success will follow. Its been a really long time since I've seen or spoken to you and I would love to catch up... Take care and God Bless,
Stefanie
vanbebber03@aol.com

[C275]

Hello Pops,

My name is Matt and i was with 2nd Ranger Battalion on the mission to rescue your son. I was among my fellow Rangers up there tracking your son and their team for nine days until we had recovered those heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice and your son. I was with him although the shape he was in he may not remember me while he received treatment and was able to be debriefed. I am so glad to see that he is doing well and is getting his story out about those brave souls who have died and those now that keep us free. If you could pass onto Marcus my email address i would greatly appreciate it. Thanks for your time sir.

Respectfully, Matt

[RY]

I just would like to say that this is the most tragic thing I have ever heard. I am 16 years old and have wanted to be a navy seal since I was 10. I would like to say that this book has given me an oppurtunity to see what I want to do. if anyone has conyact with mr lutrell please tell him that i am sorry for his loss and that he is everything that is a seal, and i belive his comrads are the reason that the eagle on the trident bows its head that they are always with him and are always going to be rememberd by all who know. because of him they will be rememberd and honord. hooyah sir you are the man i look up to we pray for all who fight but you deserve more. sir i respect you more than anyone i have ever known you are the reason they will not be forgotten. thank you

[Kendra D. Taylor]

Although I only know these fine men from Marcus’s book, I wanted to send you my prayers on this day September 11th in honor of their service and sacrifices. Today, as everyday, I remember those who fight for my freedom and swell up with pride when I think about great people in this world like the 19 that gave their lives in 2005 and “The Lone Survivor” that keeps their memories alive through their amazing story.

I hope all are doing well and again, send my prayers.

kendradeetaylor@yahoo.com

[acts1112]

I have attached a great YouTube link to Marcus Luttrell’s CBN/700 Club interview conducted on September 11, 2007:
http://www.youtube.com/psalmfourverseeight

[brandy1]

Marcus (and all who serve),
Thank you for what you have done to protect the freedom of this country. You are an inspiration to me. God bless you and may the fallen forever be in peace and never be forgotten.

Brandy

[Justin]

I first discovered the Black Five blog when I did a google search about Marcus after hearing him interviewed on a radio talk show. I couldn't wait to get his book and begin reading it, I'm half-way done with it right now: it's incredible.

Marcus's story is humorous, inspiring, and informative with a heavy dose of gut-wrenching reality.

I plan to frame the book-cover and hang it on my wall in my office as a daily reminder of what I read.

I will not forget it.

[Mandi]

This is the most amazing, informative book I have ever read.

My husband served on SEAL team 3 during the first war in Iraq. He asked me to order this book for him after hearing about it on the radio. I ordered it, then checked out various websites to see what it was about. I was so interested in it, I had to read it before hubby had the chance. He was a SEAL prior to our marriage and we don't discuss much about it. This book truly enlightened me. I've spent the last few days, since finishing the book, watching various video clips online with interviews of Marcus. He is an amazing person whom I will never forget. I wish I would have known about the book sooner. I would have gone to at least one of his book signings in Texas (I live near Ft Hood).

I will never forget what I learned from this book.

Thank you to all who serve this country and to all who have served. You are the reason we have the freedoms we do and I will never forget this.

[acts1112]

“C-Span 2 Book TV” is going to broadcast the Texas Book Festival interview with Marcus Luttrell on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at 7:00 a.m. You won't want to miss it!

For more information you may visit:
http://www.booktv.org/program.aspx?ProgramId=8896&SectionName=&PlayMedia=No

May God continue to bless our troops!