From the Cold War to ISIL: One Marine's Journey

by Jason Bohm

The fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the former Soviet Union forced America's armed forces to redefine themselves and codify their role as a key element of national power. New threats and emerging technologies changed the very character of war and demanded new strategies and an adaptable military to address them.

Jason Q. Bohm began his service to our nation as a Marine at the start of this tumultuous era. He takes the reader on a journey from the turbulent times at the end of the Cold War through the current fight against the self-proclaimed Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Bohm provides candid and useful historical background as, through a series of personal vignettes and rich operational experience, he describes how Marines translated strategic and operational objectives into tactical actions. In this unique way, he not only tells his story but that of the Marine Corps, and provides an invaluable look at the challenging times confronting Marines.

280 pages, Hardcover

Published September 15, 2019

Reviews

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

BGen Bohm's book covering his Marine Corps experiences spans a time of significant change this Service. He entered the Corps just as the old Iron Curtain mentality was dissolving yet with a Nation that couldn't quite figure out what to do with the so called peace dividend. It didn't take long for Marines to experience exactly what that new world would be like. BGen Bohm documents his experiences of the Marine Corps' response to the rapidly evolving regional and global threats to protect the Nation. From the creation of FAST teams that combated humanitarian crisis and provided small detachments for security to the very strange role of providing civilian governance while protecting infrastructure and people from ISIL Jason Bohm provides a cogent description of the missions and experiences of what it was to be a Marine Corps officer during the first two decades of the 21st Century. BGen Bohm will need to write a second volume when he retires as there are even more changes taking place today as the Marines refocus their attention from land war and COIN back to amphibious operations and a close working relationship with the US Navy.

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

General Bohm has done an exceptional job taking the reader along with him through his exceptional career. Detailed recollections envelop the reader, pulling them into each situation as if they are serving along side these warriors. This book has enough description and explanation for those who have never served, but is enjoyable for even the most seasoned combat veteran. I highly recommend “From the Cold War to ISIL” for anyone currently serving, anyone thinking about serving, or anyone that enjoys studying military history.

[Karl Flynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall this is a well chronicled book that goes through the career of BGen Bohm. I would have appreciated greater detail later in his career, specifically in the fight against ISIL, but overall its a good read.

[Kelly Huddy robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for your service.