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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Tiger Force summary
Mitch Weiss
Michael Sallah
Brief summary
Tiger Force is a gripping account of a U.S. Army unit in the Vietnam War that descended into a brutal rampage, committing atrocities against innocent civilians. It sheds light on the dark side of war and the moral complexities faced by soldiers.
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Table of Contents
Tiger Force
Summary of key ideas
The Formation of Tiger Force
In Tiger Force by Michael Sallah and Mitch Weiss, we are taken back to the early days of the Vietnam War. The book reveals the formation of a special unit called Tiger Force, comprising elite soldiers from the US Army. This force was given a unique mission: to operate deep within enemy territory, gather intelligence, and disrupt the North Vietnamese supply lines. Their tactics were unconventional, and they were given a free hand to achieve their objectives.
As the narrative unfolds, the authors introduce us to the members of Tiger Force. These were men who were handpicked for their physical and mental toughness, their ability to survive in the harsh jungle environment, and their willingness to operate independently. We learn about their training and the unorthodox methods they used to prepare for their dangerous mission.
Descent into Brutality
Initially, Tiger Force seemed to be fulfilling its purpose, carrying out reconnaissance missions and disrupting enemy activities. However, as the war dragged on, the authors reveal a darker side to the unit. The soldiers of Tiger Force, operating without direct supervision, began to engage in atrocities against the Vietnamese civilians. The book paints a grim picture of the transformation of these elite soldiers into brutal killers, committing acts of violence and murder against the innocent.
What started as a mission to disrupt the enemy's supply lines turned into a campaign of terror against the local population. The authors meticulously document the horrifying incidents: the killing of unarmed civilians, the mutilation of the dead, and the targeting of women and children. We are presented with chilling details of these war crimes, often committed for no apparent military reason.
The Cover-Up and Aftermath
As the war in Vietnam came to an end, the atrocities committed by Tiger Force could no longer be ignored. The authors delve into the subsequent investigation, revealing a shocking cover-up that went all the way to the highest levels of the military and government. Despite overwhelming evidence of the unit's war crimes, the soldiers of Tiger Force were not held accountable. Their actions were concealed, and they were allowed to return to civilian life without facing justice.
The final part of Tiger Force explores the aftermath of the war for the members of the unit. Some struggled with guilt and remorse, haunted by the horrors they had witnessed and committed. Others denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that they were simply following orders. The authors also examine the impact of the cover-up on the victims and their families, who never received acknowledgment or compensation for the atrocities they suffered.
Unearthing the Truth
Throughout Tiger Force, Sallah and Weiss meticulously reconstruct the story of this notorious unit. They draw from extensive interviews, declassified documents, and military records to provide a comprehensive account of Tiger Force's descent into brutality. The authors' investigative journalism sheds light on a dark chapter of the Vietnam War, exposing the horrors that were committed and the subsequent efforts to bury the truth.
In conclusion, Tiger Force is a harrowing exploration of the human capacity for violence and the devastating impact of war. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked power and the importance of holding individuals and institutions accountable for their actions.
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What is Tiger Force about?
Tiger Force is a gripping account of a covert unit within the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Authors Michael Sallah and Mitch Weiss uncover the brutal and disturbing actions of this elite group, shedding light on the atrocities committed against innocent civilians. Through meticulous research and interviews with veterans, they reveal a dark chapter in American military history.
Tiger Force Review
Tiger Force (2006) unveils the shocking true story of an elite army unit gone rogue in the Vietnam War. Here's what makes this book a compelling read:
- With meticulous investigative journalism, the authors expose the brutal reality of war crimes committed by the unit, shedding light on a dark chapter of history.
- The book delves into the psychological unraveling of soldiers and the dynamics of power, painting a raw and gripping narrative that captivates readers.
- It offers a harrowing portrayal of human nature in extreme circumstances, challenging readers to reflect on morality, accountability, and the complexities of warfare.
Who should read Tiger Force?
Readers who are interested in the Vietnam War and its lesser-known stories
History enthusiasts who want to learn about the complexities of war and its impact on individuals
Those who appreciate investigative journalism and uncovering hidden truths
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Book summaries like Tiger Force
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Tiger Force FAQs
What is the main message of Tiger Force?
The main message of Tiger Force exposes the brutal actions of an elite army unit during the Vietnam War.
How long does it take to read Tiger Force?
The estimated reading time for Tiger Force is a few hours. The Blinkist summary is around 15 minutes.
Is Tiger Force a good book? Is it worth reading?
Tiger Force is a compelling read shedding light on a dark chapter of history. It's worth reading for its eye-opening revelations.
Who is the author of Tiger Force?
The authors of Tiger Force are Michael Sallah and Mitch Weiss.
What to read after Tiger Force?
If you're wondering what to read next after Tiger Force, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Trial of Henry Kissinger by Christopher Hitchens
- In Pursuit of the Unknown by Ian Stewart
- The Sleepwalkers by Christopher Clark
- I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
- A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
- ISIS by Michael Weiss and Hassan Hassan
- Bloodlands by Timothy Snyder
- Gutenberg the Geek by Jeff Jarvis
- The True Believer by Eric Hoffer
- Genome by Matt Ridley