Unfortunately, the media and popular culture often portray the United States Marines in a less than flattering way. Jarheads; leather collars; Devil’s Dogs – These are just a few of the names unfairly applied to a group of elite soldiers who have sworn to serve and protect the citizens of this country. In his work The Mogadishu Diaries 1992-1993: BloodlinesFormer Marine Corps Sergeant Eddie Clay III describes his deployment to Somalia in detail. It is a story written with wit and thoughtfulness; and one that debunks the names and negative stereotypes often associated with members of this branch of the military.

Knowing that Mogadishu, Somalia, has been listed as one of the world’s most dangerous cities, Gunnery Sergeant Thompson does something that defies reason: He volunteers to support the Marine Amphibious Force deployed to that region. Then his mission is to lead his friend, and the base’s best sniper, Corporal Ramírez into the fray. Eventually, both men find themselves fighting the forces of Somali warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid; and even participate in one of the most critical operations of the entire campaign.

However, its deployment in Somalia would not be without its drama. From the moment Thompson and Ramirez set foot on Camp Pendleton base (their starting point), the two soldiers realize that, as mere ‘augmented’ (volunteer soldiers assigned to support another unit of the Marine Corps) they will be treated as second-class citizens. . That is, until they are given the opportunity to show their “mettle.” However, the politics at stake, and the damaging disdain shown towards them by a Captain Shaffner and his protégé, Corporal Warren, will not make this an easy endeavor (or deployment). Through craftsmanship and impeccable performances, both men make a name for themselves while in Somalia; finally leaving this foreign land with new friends, records of distinguished service, and many unforgettable memories.

After considering the accounts of children killed in combat situations, Thompson confesses: “When I saw children on television with their AK-47s, I knew that I could possibly face my worst nightmare. I was careful not to react like others who could instinctively justify pull the trigger “. This statement gives us an idea of ​​the Sergeant’s attitude towards military service. Although you want to defeat the enemy, you don’t want to hurt innocent civilians in the process. She fears that at some point in the conflict she may inadvertently harm women and children; an act that would violate his conscience and contradict everything he, and the Marines, hope to achieve in Somalia. This thought haunts Thompson.

Contrary to being a hardened warrior (or a killing machine ready to achieve a military goal at any cost), Sergeant Thompson is extremely conscientious. This aspect of his personality makes him a human person; and an excellent soldier. And in the context of the narrative, this character trait adds an element of mystery to the emerging plot: As we wonder and anticipate, how this complex man will act when placed in a morally ambiguous situation. As tensions in the region rise and the Sergeant becomes more aware of the possibility of civilian casualties, the stage is set for a brutal battle that will determine the fate of the Somali people and our protagonist.

The author’s writing style is incredibly clear and easy to follow. His prose flows neatly and succinctly; reflecting an organized thought process and a well-conceived artistic plan. While it has the qualities of a memory, the detailed and realistic account of the recent US involvement in Somalia seems like a novel.The Mogadishu Diaries 1992-1993: Bloodlines it is an entertaining and historically significant work of fiction. I eagerly await the sequel to this beautiful story.