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The Forging and Reforging of a Navy SEAL Leader The Trident (Paperback) - Common
Decorated Navy SEAL Lieutenant Jason Redman served his country courageously and with distinction in Columbia, Peru, Afghanistan and Iraq, where he commanded mobility and assault forces. But his journey was not without its supreme challenges. He was critically wounded in 2007 when he was struck by machine-gun fire at point blank range. During his intense recovery period Redman posted a sign on his door, warning all who entered not to "feel sorry for [his] wounds." His sign became both a statement and a symbol for wounded warriors everywhere. Vivid and powerful, emotionally resonant and illuminating, The Trident traces the evolution of a modern warrior, husband, and father, a man who has come to embody the never-say-die spirit that defines one of America's elite fighting forces.
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First published July 15, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
July 6, 2014
This was a good book for an military outsider to read. As a military insider, I found that Jason Redman did not drill down too deep into the details of the particulars of his training and education as a Navy SEAL, but he presented enough detail that you were not wondering what he left out in his book. Most of the SEALs I knew and know are like what Jason became after he made a serious tactical error during a mission in Afghanistan. In the military, and certainly in the SEAL community, you had to trust the people with whom you served as you never knew when your life would depend upon them. Jason made a judgment error that could have cost people on his team their lives, but thankfully, nobody died because of his mistake. Jason then rethought about everything he did and how he reacted to things, and changed his performance and attitude. Sometimes, it is difficult for an enlisted person to make the transition to a commissioned officer, and I think that Jason had a difficult time in his transition. It was not until he realized the skills and abilities of the people around him did he find what it meant to be a leader, as well as to know when it is time to lead and when it is time to follow.
I would give this book 4.5 stars. It is a great read for anyone in a position of leadership in the military, as well as anyone who wants to lead in the civilian sector.
I would give this book 4.5 stars. It is a great read for anyone in a position of leadership in the military, as well as anyone who wants to lead in the civilian sector.
December 15, 2013
My favorite military and leadership book of the year.
Military Element:
Redman and Bruning capture the adrenaline of the moment while retaining critical details that keep the reader engaged. This book also did not spend half the book recounting BUD/s & Hell Week like most Navy SEAL memoirs; although I believe Redman's perspective would have been extremely insightful.
Leadership Element(Spoilers):
This side of the story is what makes this book stand above the rest. The book tracks Redman's career from a young man who joins the SEALs for the "cool factor," experiences a quiet 1990's career, becomes an officer, makes some bad decisions in Afghanistan, sent to Ranger School for "leadership development," deploys to Iraq under a black cloud, is significantly wounded during an operation, and his road to recovery.
Redman had a reputation for being solid 95% of the time, however, he would make excessively impulsive, dangerous, and arrogant choices in the other 5%. Most of the book covers his forging, failure, and reforging. You get to follow along as he blows it and painfully works to become teachable and responsible.
While there are several victory stories, most of the vignettes highlight his leadership failures. The humility and honesty articulated by Redman is rare for this level of operator. This book is the opposite of "American Sniper" by the late Chris Kyle.
Jason Redman closes the book with a summary on leadership which would be hard to beat, so here it is:
OVERCOME
There is nothing in life that cannot be overcome if you're genuinely willing to try and never quiet.
LIVE GREATLY
Lift up those around you, always give back, climb a mountain, jump from a perfectly good airplane, and never pass up life's opportunities.
LOVE DEEPLY
In the end the only thing you will have left are the relationships you forged and sustained in life.
STAY HUMBLE
Pride has destroyed more men than all wars combined.
LEAD ALWAYS
True leaders lead at all times regardless of the situation they are in and who's watching.
If you follow these principles, when your hour is called, your can go, knowing you had...
NO REGRETS
Military Element:
Redman and Bruning capture the adrenaline of the moment while retaining critical details that keep the reader engaged. This book also did not spend half the book recounting BUD/s & Hell Week like most Navy SEAL memoirs; although I believe Redman's perspective would have been extremely insightful.
Leadership Element(Spoilers):
This side of the story is what makes this book stand above the rest. The book tracks Redman's career from a young man who joins the SEALs for the "cool factor," experiences a quiet 1990's career, becomes an officer, makes some bad decisions in Afghanistan, sent to Ranger School for "leadership development," deploys to Iraq under a black cloud, is significantly wounded during an operation, and his road to recovery.
Redman had a reputation for being solid 95% of the time, however, he would make excessively impulsive, dangerous, and arrogant choices in the other 5%. Most of the book covers his forging, failure, and reforging. You get to follow along as he blows it and painfully works to become teachable and responsible.
While there are several victory stories, most of the vignettes highlight his leadership failures. The humility and honesty articulated by Redman is rare for this level of operator. This book is the opposite of "American Sniper" by the late Chris Kyle.
Jason Redman closes the book with a summary on leadership which would be hard to beat, so here it is:
OVERCOME
There is nothing in life that cannot be overcome if you're genuinely willing to try and never quiet.
LIVE GREATLY
Lift up those around you, always give back, climb a mountain, jump from a perfectly good airplane, and never pass up life's opportunities.
LOVE DEEPLY
In the end the only thing you will have left are the relationships you forged and sustained in life.
STAY HUMBLE
Pride has destroyed more men than all wars combined.
LEAD ALWAYS
True leaders lead at all times regardless of the situation they are in and who's watching.
If you follow these principles, when your hour is called, your can go, knowing you had...
NO REGRETS
February 26, 2014
This book was awesome and really hit home with me. It's not your typical Navy SEAL, train hard, learn a bunch of stuff, then do amazing things for our country. It's truly one man's journey to becoming a true leader and the amazing and hard lessons he learned along the way. He initially wants to become a Navy SEAL because of the cool guy factor. I think many are drawn to this aspect of the Navy SEALs. It's tough training and he's a small (skinny) guy, but he guts it out and makes it. He eventually goes from an enlisted member to an officer. He ends up getting stuck in the pride cycle and thinks he's amazing and people need to follow him due to his great resume and position of leadership. He's in a situation, where a poor (prideful) decision he makes causes big problems. It's a career breaking decision. He's given a second chance to make things right, but his pride almost dooms him a second time. His amazing wife supports him and a good mentor helps him make the right decision to get his career back on track, although it's not an easy road to follow. He learns humility and its role in leadership. Through diligence, determination, and continually making good decisions, he regains the trust of his men. He becomes a true hero that his men will follow into harm's way.
He gets injured (which miraculously doesn't kill him) and has to deal with a gruesome recovery. What you have to love is his attitude and mindset regarding his long road to recovery. He posts the following sign on his door:
ATTENTION TO ALL WHO ENTER HERE:
If you are coming into this room with sorrow or to feel sorry for my wounds, go elsewhere. The wounds I received, I got in a job I love, doing it for people I love, supporting the freedom of a country I deeply love. I am incredibly tough and will make a full recovery. What is full? That is the absolute utmost physically my body has the ability to recover. Then I will push that about 20% further through sheer mental tenacity. This room you are about to enter is a room of fun, optimism and intense rapid re-growth. If you are not prepared for that, go elsewhere.
FROM: The Management
This sign is now hanging up permanently in Walter Reed Hospital. If you liked the book "Unbroken" which is another 5 star book in my opinion, you will enjoy "The Trident". This is the best book I have read this year or last year. Definitely a must read, amazing, incredible story!
He gets injured (which miraculously doesn't kill him) and has to deal with a gruesome recovery. What you have to love is his attitude and mindset regarding his long road to recovery. He posts the following sign on his door:
ATTENTION TO ALL WHO ENTER HERE:
If you are coming into this room with sorrow or to feel sorry for my wounds, go elsewhere. The wounds I received, I got in a job I love, doing it for people I love, supporting the freedom of a country I deeply love. I am incredibly tough and will make a full recovery. What is full? That is the absolute utmost physically my body has the ability to recover. Then I will push that about 20% further through sheer mental tenacity. This room you are about to enter is a room of fun, optimism and intense rapid re-growth. If you are not prepared for that, go elsewhere.
FROM: The Management
This sign is now hanging up permanently in Walter Reed Hospital. If you liked the book "Unbroken" which is another 5 star book in my opinion, you will enjoy "The Trident". This is the best book I have read this year or last year. Definitely a must read, amazing, incredible story!
July 23, 2018
This book should be on every leader's reading list or for anyone in the military/police/fire services. Lt. Redman details his leadership journey juxtaposed with his military career. Themes of personal development, self-reflection, and emotional maturity are addressed in such a way that the message comes across as an honest conversation the author is having with the reader. Politics aside, the men and women of our services who have been injured in the line of duty all deserve our appreciation. Don't skip the epilogue as it was a great ending to this book.
August 7, 2018
Why This Book: I had heard several years ago that this was a well-done personal story by a SEAL – which included a lot of humility – not often found in books SEALs write about themselves. I lead a volunteer reading group for young men in the SEAL Basic Training Command’s Pre Training, Recovery and Rehabilitation (PTRR) phase, who are preparing to begin and go thru SEAL training. We selected this book based on its reputation – I hadn’t read it yet – so that was enough motivation to finally get to it!
Summary in 4 Sentences: This is Jay Redman’s personal story of his journey to become a SEAL veteran, beginning with a brief look at his childhood, his journey to get into the SEAL Teams, his wild-man, undisciplined years as a cocky young SEAL enlisted man and then officer, and then his experiences in combat, both in Afghanistan and Iraq. What makes this book particularly compelling is that he shares how his cockiness and arrogance, and his lack of self-awareness cost him his reputation with his team mates, and nearly got him kicked out of the SEAL Teams. He writes painfully and openly about his mistakes, his bad attitude, his long fight to better understand and take responsibility for being ostracized and then finally the long and difficult work it took to repair his reputation and regain the confidence of his SEAL brothers. Jay was then severely wounded in Iraq and the last quarter of the book is about his long and painful recovery, with dozens of surgeries, how he depended on the love and support of his wife and family, and finally how he’s found a new, post-SEAL Team career to continue serving his country.
My Impressions: Jay tells his story with candor and humility and it is very well done. People often ask me to recommend a SEAL book for them to read, and The Trident is one of two that I recommend (the other is Fearless by Eric Blehm.) Jay tells the story of being a young man who, to put it gently, was a bit too proud of himself and about what he’d accomplished, a bit too entitled and self-assured. To put it less gently, he was arrogant, cocky, and immature, and was angry, bitter and accusative when things didn’t go his way.
But this is a story of redemption. When a pattern of bad behavior and poor decisions cost him the trust of his teammates, and he was about to be kicked out of the SEAL Teams, he was given a second, and then a third chance, and he finally began to accept responsibility – personal responsibility – for the “bad luck,” for the people out to get him, for the opportunities that didn’t come his way. And with that acceptance of responsibility, with patience, hard work, humility, and good judgment, he was able over time to earn back the trust of his teammates.
The book begins dramatically with him lying severely wounded on the battlefield in Iraq, the battle raging around him, but with Jay in a daze and realizing that he was about to die.
To read the rest of my review, go to: https://bobsbeenreading.wordpress.com...
Summary in 4 Sentences: This is Jay Redman’s personal story of his journey to become a SEAL veteran, beginning with a brief look at his childhood, his journey to get into the SEAL Teams, his wild-man, undisciplined years as a cocky young SEAL enlisted man and then officer, and then his experiences in combat, both in Afghanistan and Iraq. What makes this book particularly compelling is that he shares how his cockiness and arrogance, and his lack of self-awareness cost him his reputation with his team mates, and nearly got him kicked out of the SEAL Teams. He writes painfully and openly about his mistakes, his bad attitude, his long fight to better understand and take responsibility for being ostracized and then finally the long and difficult work it took to repair his reputation and regain the confidence of his SEAL brothers. Jay was then severely wounded in Iraq and the last quarter of the book is about his long and painful recovery, with dozens of surgeries, how he depended on the love and support of his wife and family, and finally how he’s found a new, post-SEAL Team career to continue serving his country.
My Impressions: Jay tells his story with candor and humility and it is very well done. People often ask me to recommend a SEAL book for them to read, and The Trident is one of two that I recommend (the other is Fearless by Eric Blehm.) Jay tells the story of being a young man who, to put it gently, was a bit too proud of himself and about what he’d accomplished, a bit too entitled and self-assured. To put it less gently, he was arrogant, cocky, and immature, and was angry, bitter and accusative when things didn’t go his way.
But this is a story of redemption. When a pattern of bad behavior and poor decisions cost him the trust of his teammates, and he was about to be kicked out of the SEAL Teams, he was given a second, and then a third chance, and he finally began to accept responsibility – personal responsibility – for the “bad luck,” for the people out to get him, for the opportunities that didn’t come his way. And with that acceptance of responsibility, with patience, hard work, humility, and good judgment, he was able over time to earn back the trust of his teammates.
The book begins dramatically with him lying severely wounded on the battlefield in Iraq, the battle raging around him, but with Jay in a daze and realizing that he was about to die.
To read the rest of my review, go to: https://bobsbeenreading.wordpress.com...
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November 23, 2013An impressive story of a man and what he goes through in terms of personal and professional growth. These are the people we should be thanking for all that we have.
November 22, 2020
An outstanding book about the Navy SEALs and Jason Redman personally and his recovery after being wounded in combat.
I highly recommend this book.
I highly recommend this book.
September 19, 2021
I've read a lot of history, biography, and memoirs. Some of them are boring, or seem like they're trying too hard to make their subject sound like an amazing person. This was different in a few ways. A SEAL warrior tells his own story, but he's not some perfect machine. He makes mistakes, screws up his early shot at command, redeems himself, and then gets seriously wounded, almost killed.
Redman is very open and honest about his early mistakes and shortcomings, and watching him mature as the story goes on makes this a much more interesting tale. There is, of course, action on his deployments. We also see the problems of beauracracy, politics influencing combat, and the chaos of a firefight.
The last big section of the book is about his recovery from his wounds, and it's terrifying. Redman pulls no punches, praising some doctors but calling out others, and pointing out some of them many problems in the way the VA deals with our wounded heroes.
It's a very interesting read, well done, and tells a good story. I was impressed with the man's honesty about himself, and his efforts after his time in the war was done.
Redman is very open and honest about his early mistakes and shortcomings, and watching him mature as the story goes on makes this a much more interesting tale. There is, of course, action on his deployments. We also see the problems of beauracracy, politics influencing combat, and the chaos of a firefight.
The last big section of the book is about his recovery from his wounds, and it's terrifying. Redman pulls no punches, praising some doctors but calling out others, and pointing out some of them many problems in the way the VA deals with our wounded heroes.
It's a very interesting read, well done, and tells a good story. I was impressed with the man's honesty about himself, and his efforts after his time in the war was done.
October 28, 2024
Thoughtfully written and inspiring.
May 21, 2025
harsh reality of the importance of taking accountability as a leader. incredible story and leadership lessons through the ups and downs of life.
August 4, 2015
An excellent book on the life of a Navy Seal. This book deals with the life and growth of a leader. Being a Seal is hard enough, but learning the leadership role of dealing with all type A personalities is extra hard. The author tells of his journey through all the trials of Seal life. From the very beginning where he is a scranny kid with a dream till he is a leader worried about the brotherhood and leading his team to battle the enemy....whoever they may be. Until he is battling the deamins that live in his head after being wounded in battle. Those demons in his head, after being wounded, and about to lose his arm, having to rebuild his face after he was shot in the face, and feeling that he's nothing without being able to rejoin the team.
May 16, 2014
There are many books out there that provide a first person narrative of the wars in Afghanistan or Iraq and they are generally quite good. That said, I would say this one might be one of the best I have read in a while. Not only is this a narrative of Jay's time in the war but it goes farther into his struggles as a leader in the SEALs, his work to earn back his comrade's trust and then his recovery through the horrific injuries he suffered during a firefight, a week or so before he was to ship home. Jay's story is inspiring and a reminder of those who made great sacrifices. A fine book that is different from many others on a SEALs time overseas.
August 30, 2014
Excellent story. It follows Redman through marital issues, hospitalizations from combat injuries. He shares stories about his hospital experiences, many combat experiences and how all that affected his marriage and his children. He has a co-author who helped him during his recovery and with writing events of his recovery processes.
I kept closing the book and couldn't sleep. I HAD to know how this man's story was going to end before I could get him out of my mind.
It's sentimental, its sections of his flashbacks, his insecurities about his future were all serious problems troubling him while he tired to recover and adjust to prosethics.
I kept closing the book and couldn't sleep. I HAD to know how this man's story was going to end before I could get him out of my mind.
It's sentimental, its sections of his flashbacks, his insecurities about his future were all serious problems troubling him while he tired to recover and adjust to prosethics.
February 22, 2015
Redman's mistakes in leadership while in the SEAL teams are not uncommon from those made by many other people in this world. While I would never suggest that the consequences of those choices are always of the same magnitude as those faced by operators on specialized teams like the SEALS, he's not alone. I applaud his ability to be introspective in this book, as it takes a great man to admit his faults, but even an even greater man to do something about them. The fact that he is willing to share them so others can learn from them speaks volumes of Redman's character. This book is a good balance between a look inside the SEALs and one man's strength and will to overcome.
March 24, 2014
Amazing! Great story. I actually read this book during one of the darkest periods of my life. It was one of the best things I could have done. To read his story is to feel like you were beside him as he overcame again and again. This book helped me to stop feeling sorry for myself and has helped me have a positive attitude ever since. Want a great story, read this book. Want to overcome the blues or self pity, read this book. Want to know that there are still American's who have the courage, devotion, and love of country over self that the "greatest generation" had, read this book.
April 2, 2015
I normally don't get down with reads like this, but I just picked it up one day while at sea and just could not put it down. The way LT Redman describes his tours overseas, from enlisted to commission, internal struggles with being in the military and the demons that go along with this way of life is life in its purest form. You don't have to be in the military to appreciate the book. If you want a great life adventure and something to help you put life in perspective, I suggest giving the book "a go". A great read.
February 10, 2016
Very well written book about a hard transition from enlisted to commissioned navy seal officer and eventual life transforming physical sacrifice in the name of a war not easily acknowledged at home. Brave story of learning from one's errors and learning the quality of humility. To some it comes naturally, to others, like Redman, it needs to be acquired, forged and reforged.
On another note, his love story with Erica, as told throughout the book, is an inspiration in itself. Unconditional love is rarely found. James and Erica have something very special. Very heartwarming.
Great book
On another note, his love story with Erica, as told throughout the book, is an inspiration in itself. Unconditional love is rarely found. James and Erica have something very special. Very heartwarming.
Great book
October 20, 2022
I hope there are protocols in place that will prevent a person of this man’s mental instability from ever becoming a Navy Seal again. He was a danger to everyone on his team and we are fortunate his behavior didn’t result in the unnecessary deaths of others. His current anger and narcissistic views toward the general public also represent a physical danger.
March 9, 2015
Navy SEAL Jason Redman uses his experience in the SEALs to show how servant leadership is the only truly effective long term way to lead. His story of toughness in battle and recovery from injury is inspiring. It's a page turner.
July 5, 2025
Great.
February 22, 2024
This is a biography is about the military career of Navy Seal Jason Redman. The book opens with a recap of injuries sustained during the Iraqi war. The early part talks about why he gravitated to the Navy and the Seals. He talks briefly about his high school years of being an undersized individual with a spirit never to quit. His father talking about the Seals being the premier fighting force. This nurtured a desire and passion to join. Following HS enlisted went to boot camp and was selected for BUDs training. Due to an injury was bumped to a later class where succeeded. Following school achieved his Trident and did several evolutions in South America. Eventually he met and eventually married a women and relocated to Va Beach. He went on varies deployments in and around Iraq and Afganistan. During his career he documents various aspects of life and career. Basically, birth, growth and distruction all personally induced. In essence at times he was his own worse enemy. As stated 95% of the time he was great with superior attitude and work ethic. The 5% would kill all the good he'd done. One such occasion his ego in theater almost cost a member of the team his life. This put him a dog house where others did not want him as a team member. In a world where you rely on each other egos are unwelcomed. During this period he played the blame game where it was everyone else's fault but never looked in the mirror to see the real problem. He was sent to Ranger school where after the first teat he took for granted and promptly failed. Decided to quit and bag his career. But the CO at Ranger school got him to talk to one of the SEAL Co's who had pushed him for the Enlisted to Admiral progam. Following that talk he decided to stay but was bumped back to the next class. This required him to stay on base and do house maintenance around the base. This provided a lot of alone time to think and evaluate everything in his career and marriage. While in thought it became clear the problem wasn't everyone else but himself. Following Ranger school the course correction placed him in a new Seal unit which provided a clean slate. Following workups sent to Iraq and he talks about a number of evolutions conducted. Near the end of the deployment and preparing to come home in another evolution he was gravely injuried and medivac to Germany than to Bethesda Naval Hospital. Following a several years of surgeries the ends talking about a foundation he and wife started to assist other wounded warriors called Wounded Wear.
September 2, 2025
Book - 4.8 A very heartfelt story of a Navy Seal warrior wounded in 2007 while serving in Iraq. His story is told honestly while serving on the field/training and about his family, leaving his wife and three children at home. By far a wonderfully written book that captures a family’s life before, during and the after math of such tragic injuries. Jason Redman and all his brothers are true heroes. I’m so thankful for their service.
I truly believe our country mindset has changed and many people value what veterans of war have given up for our freedom. I despise how this US president has belittled American veterans (like John McCain) for being captured in war especially when he, himself never served in war or in the military to protect Americans. American’s should ALWAYS be grateful for the scarifies our military people have made for our freedom.
Lots of great leadership points that Jay Redman makes in this book.
- Essence of dynamic leadership is by motivating & inspiring the team to accomplish a common goal regardless of adversity or danger
- Heart & tenacity ultimately will outplay talent and strength every time. Never lose that fire
- When you have a setback, use the opportunity to learn. Learn who you really are and use it to make yourself a better person, a better warrior, a better leader.
- The measure of a person is not found in his or her past but how he or she overcomes adversity and builds the future. Outlook determines outcome. From here forward, my past would stay in the rear view mirror.
- you can’t change the past but if willing you can control the future
OVERCOME, LIVE GREATLY, LOVE DEEPLY, STAY HUMBLE, LEAD ALWAYS, NO REGRETS
Quote from Jay Redman
The mark of a man is not found in his past, but how he overcome adversity and builds his future. Quitting is not an option. Regardless of the overwhelming odds or obstacles in your path, you always have an opportunity to overcome. It is your attitude that will determine the outcome.
I truly believe our country mindset has changed and many people value what veterans of war have given up for our freedom. I despise how this US president has belittled American veterans (like John McCain) for being captured in war especially when he, himself never served in war or in the military to protect Americans. American’s should ALWAYS be grateful for the scarifies our military people have made for our freedom.
Lots of great leadership points that Jay Redman makes in this book.
- Essence of dynamic leadership is by motivating & inspiring the team to accomplish a common goal regardless of adversity or danger
- Heart & tenacity ultimately will outplay talent and strength every time. Never lose that fire
- When you have a setback, use the opportunity to learn. Learn who you really are and use it to make yourself a better person, a better warrior, a better leader.
- The measure of a person is not found in his or her past but how he or she overcomes adversity and builds the future. Outlook determines outcome. From here forward, my past would stay in the rear view mirror.
- you can’t change the past but if willing you can control the future
OVERCOME, LIVE GREATLY, LOVE DEEPLY, STAY HUMBLE, LEAD ALWAYS, NO REGRETS
Quote from Jay Redman
The mark of a man is not found in his past, but how he overcome adversity and builds his future. Quitting is not an option. Regardless of the overwhelming odds or obstacles in your path, you always have an opportunity to overcome. It is your attitude that will determine the outcome.
June 13, 2018
This is Jason Redman's story of his life. He was wounded in Iraq. I say wounded. He was shot twice in the arm and once in the face. That shot destroyed his nose and has required many surgeries to repair the damage. But this is also the story of his life.
I'm going to flat-out say that I hated him in the beginning of this book. He was arrogant and didn't take responsibility for anything he did. But, as I learned later. That was the point. Jason learned - the very hard way- how to be a leader.
What I loved about this book is that he admits fully and completely that he was arrogant and obnoxious. But he overcame those characteristics before he was wounded. He's honest about how hard his recovery has been and how depressed losing SEAL buddies has been. He founded a non-profit and has made his life after the Navy meaningful.
I also loved that he loves his wife. I admire her for her strength, character, and unwavering supports of Jason. This book is also a good reminder that many of us who have not served do not do enough for those who have. We tend to ignore the war because it's been going on so long and it's not every other headline any more. That is wrong. I hope he knows that the vast majority of use, while we may not outwardly say so, appreciate his service and anyone who serves.
I listened to the audio book and I really liked the narrator. His voice was calm and commanding. If you are interested in Navy Seals or anything related to Jason, this is a good book to read. I really enjoyed it.
I'm going to flat-out say that I hated him in the beginning of this book. He was arrogant and didn't take responsibility for anything he did. But, as I learned later. That was the point. Jason learned - the very hard way- how to be a leader.
What I loved about this book is that he admits fully and completely that he was arrogant and obnoxious. But he overcame those characteristics before he was wounded. He's honest about how hard his recovery has been and how depressed losing SEAL buddies has been. He founded a non-profit and has made his life after the Navy meaningful.
I also loved that he loves his wife. I admire her for her strength, character, and unwavering supports of Jason. This book is also a good reminder that many of us who have not served do not do enough for those who have. We tend to ignore the war because it's been going on so long and it's not every other headline any more. That is wrong. I hope he knows that the vast majority of use, while we may not outwardly say so, appreciate his service and anyone who serves.
I listened to the audio book and I really liked the narrator. His voice was calm and commanding. If you are interested in Navy Seals or anything related to Jason, this is a good book to read. I really enjoyed it.
August 17, 2023
To Jason, thank you for your service and your ongoing sacrifice. And thank you for sharing your story. I will cherish my signed copy of The Trident, the one I could barely put down while reading.
To the reader, I rarely give a book 5 stars. This one earned it. I was gripped from the opening pages. After the first four chapters I had to catch my breath and acknowledge the lump in my throat. My respect for the American warriors of the modern Iraq and Afghanistan wars runs deep. Even deeper now. I’ve had friends who have fought and served and live with the realities they faced. Those who have and are overcoming are incredibly inspiring to me. Jason’s story is unique in ways due to the layers involved and the transparency with which he shares of his own immaturity and character flaws. To overcome SEAL training AND Ranger School? Hats off. Significant injuries, numerous surgeries and life-changing recovery? Grueling. Additionally, to overcome pride and defensiveness and to become self aware, teachable and earn the respect of others through humble service and personal growth? Almost unheard of. Far too rare. That might have inspired me the most. If you pick it up, good luck putting it down. I will not look at the Navy trident the same. For any aspiring Stronger Men or Warrior Poets, I definitely recommend The Trident.
#leadersarereaders #thetrident #strongermannation #strongermen #warriorpoets
To the reader, I rarely give a book 5 stars. This one earned it. I was gripped from the opening pages. After the first four chapters I had to catch my breath and acknowledge the lump in my throat. My respect for the American warriors of the modern Iraq and Afghanistan wars runs deep. Even deeper now. I’ve had friends who have fought and served and live with the realities they faced. Those who have and are overcoming are incredibly inspiring to me. Jason’s story is unique in ways due to the layers involved and the transparency with which he shares of his own immaturity and character flaws. To overcome SEAL training AND Ranger School? Hats off. Significant injuries, numerous surgeries and life-changing recovery? Grueling. Additionally, to overcome pride and defensiveness and to become self aware, teachable and earn the respect of others through humble service and personal growth? Almost unheard of. Far too rare. That might have inspired me the most. If you pick it up, good luck putting it down. I will not look at the Navy trident the same. For any aspiring Stronger Men or Warrior Poets, I definitely recommend The Trident.
#leadersarereaders #thetrident #strongermannation #strongermen #warriorpoets
November 28, 2019
where he was gravely injured. It’s detailed and compelling. I felt like I was there, trying to get to him like his guys were.
Then he backtracks and tells us how he got to that point. It wasn’t a smooth journey; in fact, he was nearly ostracised from the SEAL teams due to his arrogance. Jay grappled with his own self-doubts, his faults, and his frustrations, and in this book he lays them all out for the reader. He holds nothing back, honestly admitting his mistakes. It was incredibly insightful.
He brings us with him through his recovery and shares things about his wife and kids. More frustrations… and sorrow when he finally has to accept that he’s not going to be able to go back to the SEAL teams.
He touches on frustrations with the general population, many of whom were (are?) ignorant of what our military folks are going through in the Middle East and elsewhere. I’m here to tell Jay (and others) that many of us *want* to understand. We want you to share what you’ve been through, not just superficially but in a way that we can relate to your humanness. Many operators can’t or won’t do that, and I very much appreciate that Jay has done so. I feel like I know him. One of the best military memoirs I’ve read.
Then he backtracks and tells us how he got to that point. It wasn’t a smooth journey; in fact, he was nearly ostracised from the SEAL teams due to his arrogance. Jay grappled with his own self-doubts, his faults, and his frustrations, and in this book he lays them all out for the reader. He holds nothing back, honestly admitting his mistakes. It was incredibly insightful.
He brings us with him through his recovery and shares things about his wife and kids. More frustrations… and sorrow when he finally has to accept that he’s not going to be able to go back to the SEAL teams.
He touches on frustrations with the general population, many of whom were (are?) ignorant of what our military folks are going through in the Middle East and elsewhere. I’m here to tell Jay (and others) that many of us *want* to understand. We want you to share what you’ve been through, not just superficially but in a way that we can relate to your humanness. Many operators can’t or won’t do that, and I very much appreciate that Jay has done so. I feel like I know him. One of the best military memoirs I’ve read.
August 17, 2019
The beginning of this book is very slow, and I had difficulty getting into it. Then the author gets to his history and what led him to the night he was wounded, and the book takes off.
I love books about special operations - regardless of the service. (My favorites are SEALs and Pararescue Jumpers, but I like any.) I've read a lot of books by SEALs about their time in service, and this one is by far the best. It's so personal. LT Redman is up-front and honest about his mistakes and the roads it led him down. He pulls no punches on himself. But it is also a book of hope, because he does overcome his mistakes and comes back stronger than before. His lessons are not only for warriors; they apply to everyone in every walk of life. More than once while listening, I had to take a break because it was hitting too close to home.
But it is also just an amazing book about special operations. There is a lot of information about operations in this book, which are exciting.
Overall, this is one of the best books I have ever read.
I love books about special operations - regardless of the service. (My favorites are SEALs and Pararescue Jumpers, but I like any.) I've read a lot of books by SEALs about their time in service, and this one is by far the best. It's so personal. LT Redman is up-front and honest about his mistakes and the roads it led him down. He pulls no punches on himself. But it is also a book of hope, because he does overcome his mistakes and comes back stronger than before. His lessons are not only for warriors; they apply to everyone in every walk of life. More than once while listening, I had to take a break because it was hitting too close to home.
But it is also just an amazing book about special operations. There is a lot of information about operations in this book, which are exciting.
Overall, this is one of the best books I have ever read.
April 27, 2020
I typically love books about navy seals or the military or wars so I thought this would be a great book as well since it was recommended to me by my siblings. I did not love this one as much as others such as lone survivor. I did like that Jason did eventually figure himself out and start getting better but I did think that most of the book, he was a bit of an ass. He constantly went against rules and leadership and was so full of himself. He was very fortunate a number of times to have other senior leadership looking out for him and seeing in him something he clearly couldn't see for a while. He was given more chances than I thought he would get with the seals so he should consider himself very lucky. Now what happened to him in battle and all these surgeries I don't wish on anyone and I'm glad he had a very supportive wife. In the end, he did have a very positive mindset and I appreciate that but I felt like most of the book wasn't very positive but maybe that's just my mood these days in quarantine. It was a good read but not my favorite.
July 14, 2020
What I loved about this book was Jason’s honesty and willingness to just lay all his mistakes out there for the reader. He has told his story so well and his spirit is so admirable. I want to let him know that I do realize his sacrifice and appreciate every minute, every second and every day he served, his injuries and his recovery. I see the selfishness of lots of Americans right now who do not realize the sacrifices that have been made throughout this country’s history for them to go around acting a fool. I wish they would realize what men like Jason have done for them. The line that really hit me was when the nurse in one of the hospitals asked him what happened to him and when he said he was shot she asked him what gang he was in. His response was perfect, I was shot overseas fighting for the freedom of those gangbangers to shoot each other up here at home. Telling. Anyway, if you care about this country, wounded warriors or just want to learn something beautiful, then read this book.
August 7, 2018
Lieutenant Redman's book is one of my favorites of the genre. He doesn't leave anything off the table in regards to his life and career in the military. In a time when SEALS are regarded as untouchable super human soldiers who never fail and rarely struggle... his story will educate those to the true reality. While it is absolutely true that these men are brave, strong, disciplined and well trained they are human. They have personal lives and relationships that are not always perfect....just like us. They struggle and have failures at their work.... just like us. They have doubts and question personal decisions....just like us. What can and often does set these men apart is their willingness to stay in the fight and overcome adversity in all aspects of life. Jason Redman did just that. His life and career should be an inspiration...and lesson...to all who have the pleasure to read about it.
January 23, 2019
This was a journey which is still in progress.
I chose to read this book to understand better my family members military experiences for our country. I am the granddaughter, niece, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend of many who served. The book does lead us through all the phases of development of an individual who puts their heart, soul, mind. and body into a life/job/profession with strong ideals as the base. .... "What can you do for your country" ?....is a strong tenet for all to live by, for that American dream of our country. Thank you for serving us all.
The writing flowed, allowing me to fall into the situations. The development of a young person to an adult leader is described with "warts and all". It's powerful because the honesty and sincerity is obvious. I learned of that journey, but also gained insight into my own and other's as well. I believe people of all ages and backgrounds can learn life lessons from this book.
I chose to read this book to understand better my family members military experiences for our country. I am the granddaughter, niece, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend of many who served. The book does lead us through all the phases of development of an individual who puts their heart, soul, mind. and body into a life/job/profession with strong ideals as the base. .... "What can you do for your country" ?....is a strong tenet for all to live by, for that American dream of our country. Thank you for serving us all.
The writing flowed, allowing me to fall into the situations. The development of a young person to an adult leader is described with "warts and all". It's powerful because the honesty and sincerity is obvious. I learned of that journey, but also gained insight into my own and other's as well. I believe people of all ages and backgrounds can learn life lessons from this book.
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