COLONEL TOM MANION, USMC (RET.)
My wife and I lost our only son, US Marine First Lieutenant Travis Manion, on April 29, 2007, in Fallujah, Iraq.
Soon after Travis’s death, I set out to share his sacrifice through a book that would help more Americans understand the profound commitment that these young men and women have made to our country. After many who served with Travis mentioned his close bond with the Iraqis who he helped train, I traveled to Fallujah in the spring of 2010 to speak personally with several of the Iraqi Army soldiers whom he fought alongside.
I was overwhelmed by the pride that these people had in their country and inspired by their continuing quest for freedom. I saw firsthand what Travis must have experienced working so closely with the Iraqis, and I left the country with a better understanding of the struggles and the determination of these proud people.
As I flew back from Iraq, the caskets of five fallen American heroes were being carried home to their families on the same plane. The solemn moment reinforced how much this young generation of Americans had sacrificed so future generations of Iraqis could grow up in a land not gripped by fear, terrorism, and war.
My son’s US Naval Academy roommate, US Navy Lieutenant (SEAL) Brendan Looney, was subsequently killed in action. Immediately after the death of this courageous warrior, I realized the story of service and sacrifice stretched beyond Travis and his efforts in Iraq to a bigger story about all who serve.
While mourning Travis and Brendan, it became clear that the story of these two American heroes was representative of an entire young generation of men and women who answered the call to serve after the attacks of September 11, 2001. Whether in Iraq, Afghanistan, or other volatile areas around the globe, our military and their families have taken on an immense burden for our country. At war for longer than any prior conflict, many with two, three, or four tours in a combat zone, the patriots of this all-volunteer force have continued to step forward without hesitation. Their selfless service is a shining example to all Americans of the price of freedom.
Throughout our history, generations have continued to answer the call to defend our nation, and none more proudly than today’s volunteers. This book is for them.
There are countless people to thank for helping this project come together, particularly Travis’s fellow Marines and Brendan’s fellow Navy SEALs, who spent many hours helping us understand the heroism of their brothers in arms. Thanks for your service to our nation, and for helping us tell a story that we hope will enable more Americans to understand your generation’s courage and sacrifice.
To our literary agent, E. J. McCarthy: thank you for your belief in this project. You helped make this book a reality, and we are enormously grateful for your efforts.
To our editor, Robert Pigeon: thank you for your guidance and wonderful ideas. You are the best in the business.
To our publisher, Da Capo Press and the entire Perseus Books Group: thanks to your team for your enthusiastic support. You have truly gone above and beyond.
To Tom Sileo: your relentless efforts helped put this story together in a way that those outside of the military community can appreciate.
To Ryan, Dave, Maggie, and Honor: thanks for all the support and for being there for me. I love you guys!
To Amy, Kevin, Maureen, Steve, Ali, Billy, Morgan, Erin, Bridget, and Kellie Looney: your strength is an inspiration. We will always remember Brendan’s life, legacy, and ultimate sacrifice.
To Brendan: no one could ever be a better friend. You are a shining example for generations to come.
To Travis: no son could ever make his dad more proud.
To my dear Janet: finally the book has been written, and my only regret is that you weren’t here to share it. I will love you always.