Second to None-Warrior Voices -- Review

Reviewer: Colonel Larry Mayes, USAF (Retired)

This is an interesting and unusual book which gives a unique and very personal look at the Korean War through the eyes of survivors of that conflict while serving in the “Indian Head” Second Infantry Division. Author Derksen has taken 54 individual stories, some previously printed in The Bulletin, published by the 2nd ID, Korean War Alliance, and other stories provided to her by these veterans, and has woven them into a compelling narrative. What makes this book different from most of this genre is the intimate and personal quality of each individual story. Each narration focuses on one or two specific events of combat or related events and is told in the first-person without embellishment. In fact, the self deprecating humor and complete honesty of these soldiers as they tell their often horrific stories gives richness to the text that is refreshing and extremely interesting to read. These brave men, like most of those who have been in deadly combat, do not exaggerate; rather they reveal their own hopes and fears as they face almost certain death in a number of instances. While necessarily limited to those who fought with the 2nd ID, this book gives the reader significant insight into how the Korean War was fought by those at the very sharp end of the spear. While not a definitive history of the Korean War or even the 2nd ID, this is a very emotional and revealing composition by warriors whose story needs to be told and is here told well.

Reviewer: Kathi Macais, Pulitzer Prize nominee in literature for 2006

Author Barbara Ann Derksen has captured the heart and heroism of America's military in her excellent compilation of stories about the U.S. Army's Second Infantry Division. At a time when our country desperately needs to be reminded to stand behind the valiant individuals who put their lives on the line to protect our precious freedoms, Derksen has published the right book at the right time.

Reviewer: Tamara Cooper

Heroes. We hear the word every day, but the word has new meaning in Barbara Ann Derksen's book, "Second to None: Warrior Voices." We remember, along with American warriors who fought in Korea, the sacrifices of men who struggled in brutal situations...some survived; some did not. But we remember. Their stories touched me. Everyone needs to read this book about our heroes...and read about the South Korean doctor who recently treated a Korean veteran; after surgery, the doctor bowed to his patient when he learned he'd served in Korea, and said, "I thank you." You will be moved by these stories; you will learn about their sacrifices; and you, too, will be grateful.

Reviewer: Jennifer McLeMore

Second to None is an excellent book showcasing the integrity, the sacrifice, and the emotions of our soldiers as they served and defended the rights of the USA in the war in Korea. As one who only reads by getting 'into' the book, my heart was touched and my emotions stirred as I came to know the men who came home as survivors and those who did not. If you like/love history, if you know a soldier, if you are indifferent to our soldiers who are giving their lives for our freedom, you need to read this book.

Reviewer: Pamela E. James

As a daughter of a Korea veteran I have to say this book is a must for every bookshelf. Gripping stories of the men who fought for our country and our freedom. It makes you want to get on your knees and thank God for these regular men who did extrordinary things for the sake of the American people. Thank you Barbara for putting this together so beautifully.

Reviewer: Felicia Mires, writer

Second to None was shocking. It was harrowing. And I cried when I felt the pain of our military men in Korea. I've been so naive about what our history books tried to white-wash as the Korean conflict. It was a brutal war.

Barbara's book is a collection of first-person accounts, written by the men who lived through the battles and butchery. It features tales of daring, courage, and self-sacrifice in the face of unrelenting attacks. Their memories should be treasured. Their accounts are so real, the Korean War will forever be etched in my mind. What a tribute!

Reviewer: Dana Taylor, Definitely Dana Radio Show

What a wonderful piece of work. It is so compelling and moving. Many war books are so bogged down in the military strategy but this book is all about humanity in the midst of war. Raw, real, and gut-wrenching, SECOND TO NONE brings the battle-front to life. Told in the words of 54 Korean War veterans, the book chronicles green recruits evolving into battle-weary warriors. These stories of courage, loss, friendship, and faith memorialize the sacrifices of America’s finest.