The Reluctant General

by Billy R. Cooper

In the first few chapters of his autobiography, Cooper recalls events from his childhood, growing up on the farm with his maternal grandparents. The next chapters follow his high school life, and finally his entrance into the Army. Readers can follow Cooper's audacious encounters from being a private at Fort Polk, LA, to Field Artillery Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Sill, OK and through a variety of assignments as he was promoted eventually to Brigadier General taking him across the United States to Vietnam, Germany and the Persian Gulf. Alternating stories about his exciting encounters in the field, his own insights and his experiences that will benefit readers, THE RELUCTANT GENERAL proves that what many others might think is a will-of-the-wisp can turn into something real. Cooper dedicates this book to his patient family, the Army, and to America, and shows them how ordinary events can produce extraordinary results.

252 pages, Paperback

First published September 12, 2011

Reviews

[Jesse Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was delighted to learn of this book from a fellow member of a Facebook page called "Pinder Barracks Zirndorf Germany." It truly was a good read, and to me was an intensely personal read. As a 19-year-old enlisted man, I worked for Billy Cooper from April to August 1975, he was a captain and serving as Pinder Barracks' deputy installation commander (following his time in various positions, including as a battery commander, with the 1-22 Field Artillery). Chap. 15, The Double Deuce--I admit reading it first!--covers his first posting at Pinder. He recounts several events at I distinctly remember, and describes them a way that helped bring a sense of understanding to events that back then were so unsettling. Billy Cooper was by far and away the best officer I served under. As young as I was, I believed him to be a great man. A true leader. Learning more about his life both before and after I met him, including about his highly successful years following his first tour at Pinder Barracks, confirmed my belief 100%.