This is an amazing book that should be required reading for everyone 16 years of age and older. Uplifting, inspiring, terrifying, compelling, tragic, funny, informative, educational--all of those things. I welled up with sadness several times while reading this. Other times my heart swelled with pride for my country and fellow Americans. Durant is a great American. He even has a great sarcastic sense of humor, even in the worst of times. I was laughing out loud at a few of his comments. Read this along with Black Hawk Down and you'll get a great perspective. Never once did I feel that this book was somehow redundant for me after reading BHD.BUY IT NOW!!!!!!!!!!