One Tough Marine: The Biography of First Sergeant Donald N. Hamblen, USMC

by Donald N. Hamblen, Bruce H. Norton

Sgt. Donald Hamblen was seriously injured on a routine exercise in 1962. And though his leg was amputated six inches below the knee, he fought to stay in the Corps and passed every kind of endurance test. Training other Marines for service in Vietnam in the supersecret Studies and Observation Group (SOG) in 1965, he trained teams of Vietnamese for clandestine missions in both North and South Vietnam. Wounded twice, he served 30 unbroken months of duty. And as far as is known, he is the first and only Marine to go into combat with a prosthesis. For Donald Hamblen was a true marine who would not quit and repeatedly demonstrated that he had the courage, spirit, and self-determination to overcome all obstacles.

Genres: Biography, Military Fiction, Nonfiction, History

320 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1993

Reviews

[Robert border · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal story of a very dedicated,humble Marine that despite the odds all he wanted to do was serve in the Marine Corps. A true inspiration to me as a Marine who has left the corps. extremely motivational in showing that anything is possible when you put all your effort into it. I highly recommend to service members, currently in or have served. Every Marine should be required to read.

[Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible man, incredible journey

First Sergeant Donald N. Hamblen's biography is the best military biography I've ever read. From his childhood and the cold winters in Maine, to his enlistment in the USMC and service in Korea, to his injury and recovery and his service in Vietnam, there is never a dull moment. You can tell he is a humble man with the highest level of integrity. His pride in the USMC reminds me of reading Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock. This book was recommended to me after reading Force Recon Diaries by Bruce Norton, and the work Bruce did on this book deserves to be applauded. I do wish there were more chapters on his SOG work in Vietnam considering he spent 30 months there, but the material there is all excellent.

[Dowanda Bullock · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most respected people, my past are the recon Marines

Of all the books I've read, this has got to be the best I am a CB, not a Marine but I respect those who've served, especially those who served in Vietnam. They are the greatest I like to read non-fiction books better than any of the others. Most tell the truth a lot embellish on what really happened and didn't happen I'm very thankful for this book it is the greatest I would love someday to meet this man.

[Gary Trembath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

Very interesting read. Matter of fact, with no bullshit and Hamblen is the 'real deal' and gave his very best for his country. This is the a really good read for us civilians who have never served and is a good insight into the USMC.

[Nick Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book with a different perspective on the Marine Corps - - the originating breed of Force Recon. Also has some good humor in it, making light of some difficult circumstances.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome biography of First Sergeant Don Hamblin, the first Marine to be sent into combat with a prosthetic after he lost his leg in a parachute accident. He went on to rehabilitate himself and serve 30 months in Vietnam as a Recon Marine. Semper Fidelis!

[J F Iungerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

True blue Marine,one who is an excellent model for marine and man-made.

a real hero, like others of his ilk,doesn't see himself as such. draws attention to others involved, readily admits his shortcomings without denigrating his abilities and accomplishments.

[Sean Donegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!