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Men Against Fire

224 pages, 2000

biographies & memoirs

biographies & memoirs

997 books
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history

999 books
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Description

S. L. A. “Slam” Marshall startled the military and civilian world in 1947 by announcing that—in an average infantry company, no more than one in four soldiers actually fired their weapons while in contact with the enemy. His contention was based on interviews he conducted immediately after combat in both the European and Pacific theaters of World War II. 

To remedy the gunfire imbalance, he proposed changes to infantry training designed to ensure that American soldiers in future wars brought more fire upon the enemy. His studies during the Korean War showed that the ratio of fire had more than doubled since World War II.

Understanding the Reality of Combat

In 'Men Against Fire', S.L. A. Marshall explores the harsh realities of combat. He reveals that only a small percentage of soldiers actually fire their weapons at the enemy during battle. This is a shocking revelation that challenges our common perceptions about war and soldiers.

The Psychological Impact of War

Marshall digs deep into the psychological impact of war on soldiers. He finds that fear, stress, and the instinct to survive often override the duty to kill. This book gives you a new perspective on the mental toll war takes on those who fight.

The Importance of Training

Marshall emphasizes the importance of proper training in his book. He argues that soldiers are more likely to engage in combat if they are well-trained and prepared. So, if you're interested in military tactics and training methods, you should definitely check out 'Men Against Fire'.

The Controversy Surrounding the Book

Marshall's research in 'Men Against Fire' has sparked a lot of debate. Some people question his methods and findings, while others see it as a groundbreaking study. Reading this book will allow you to form your own opinion on this controversial topic.

The Influence on Modern Military Tactics

Despite the controversy, 'Men Against Fire' has had a significant impact on modern military tactics. Marshall's findings led to changes in training methods, with a greater focus on conditioning soldiers to fire their weapons. This book gives you a chance to explore the evolution of military tactics.

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