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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Sgt. Reckless summary
Robin Hutton
Brief summary
Sgt. Reckless by Robin Hutton is the inspiring true story of a brave mare who served as a Marine in the Korean War. From carrying ammunition to evacuating the wounded, Reckless displayed incredible loyalty and courage.
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Table of Contents
Sgt. Reckless
Summary of key ideas
Early Life and Training
In Sgt. Reckless by Robin Hutton, we are introduced to the unlikely hero of the Korean War, a small, unassuming Mongolian mare named Reckless. Born in 1948 in Korea, Reckless was purchased by a U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant, Eric Pedersen, to serve as a pack horse for his platoon. Despite her humble beginnings, Reckless soon proved to be anything but ordinary.
Reckless quickly endeared herself to the Marines with her intelligence, bravery, and insatiable appetite for anything from scrambled eggs to beer. She was soon adopted as an official Marine, given the rank of Corporal, and was trained to carry heavy loads of ammunition, often under enemy fire. Her remarkable ability to memorize the dangerous routes, and her calm demeanor under fire, saved countless lives and earned her the respect and admiration of all who knew her.
Acts of Valor and Heroism
During the intense Battle of Outpost Vegas in March 1953, Reckless made her most famous contribution. With the battle raging, Reckless made 51 solo trips, carrying a total of 9,000 pounds of ammunition to the front lines and wounded soldiers. She did this without any guidance, calmly navigating the treacherous terrain and dodging enemy fire. Her actions were credited with turning the tide of the battle and saving numerous lives.
Reckless's remarkable bravery during this battle earned her two Purple Hearts, and she was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Her story captured the public's imagination, and she became a symbol of the war's indomitable spirit. Reckless even appeared in a Life magazine feature, cementing her status as a national hero.
Post-War Life and Legacy
After the war, Reckless was brought to the United States, where she was given a hero's welcome. She spent her retirement at Camp Pendleton, California, where she was visited by admirers, including former Marines and even President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Despite her fame, Reckless remained the same gentle, affectionate horse, always eager for attention and treats.
In Sgt. Reckless, Hutton also delves into the emotional bond between Reckless and her fellow Marines. Reckless was not just a pack animal; she was a beloved member of the platoon, and her loss was deeply felt when she passed away in 1968. Her memory, however, continued to live on, and in 2013, she was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal, the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross, for her extraordinary bravery during the Korean War.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Sgt. Reckless is a remarkable tale of courage, loyalty, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals during times of war. Through Reckless's story, Robin Hutton brings to light the often-overlooked contributions of animals in wartime and pays tribute to the brave and selfless service of this extraordinary mare. Reckless's legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the extraordinary things ordinary beings can achieve in the face of adversity.
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What is Sgt. Reckless about?
Sgt. Reckless by Robin Hutton tells the incredible true story of a small, unassuming mare who became a beloved member of the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. With courage and determination, Reckless carried ammunition and wounded soldiers through treacherous conditions, earning her the rank of sergeant and a place in military history. This book honors her extraordinary service and the unbreakable bond between soldiers and their loyal companion.
Sgt. Reckless Review
Sgt. Reckless (2014) shares the incredible true story of a courageous mare who served in the Korean War, proving her loyalty and bravery beyond measure. Here's why this book is a gem:
- Illustrating unwavering devotion to her fellow soldiers, Sgt. Reckless carried ammunition and wounded soldiers through treacherous terrain, embodying true heroism.
- The book captures the emotional bond between Sgt. Reckless and the Marines, showcasing the powerful connection between humans and animals during wartime.
- With its riveting accounts of Sgt. Reckless's missions and adventures, the book offers a captivating narrative that is sure to captivate and inspire readers.
Who should read Sgt. Reckless?
History enthusiasts who want to learn about the role of animals in war
Military veterans and active duty service members
Animal lovers who appreciate stories of bravery and loyalty
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Book summaries like Sgt. Reckless
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Sgt. Reckless FAQs
What is the main message of Sgt. Reckless?
The main message of Sgt. Reckless is the incredible bravery and resilience of a warhorse serving with valor.
How long does it take to read Sgt. Reckless?
Reading time for Sgt. Reckless varies, with the Blinkist summary taking significantly less time for a quick overview.
Is Sgt. Reckless a good book? Is it worth reading?
Sgt. Reckless is a compelling tale of courage and loyalty, making it a worthwhile read for history and animal lovers alike.
Who is the author of Sgt. Reckless?
The author of Sgt. Reckless is Robin Hutton.
What to read after Sgt. Reckless?
If you're wondering what to read next after Sgt. Reckless, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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