In 'The Coldest War,' James Brady takes readers into the heart of the enduring tensions of the Cold War, blending personal narratives with geopolitical intrigue. The story unfolds through the eyes of a soldier who grapples with his conviction and the absurdity of the conflict. As betrayals and loyalties are tested, readers are drawn into a world where friendships collide with duty. Brady’s vivid storytelling reveals the human cost of a war fought in shadows and whispers. Will the protagonist find redemption amidst the chaos, or will the cold war consume him?
By James Brady
Published: 2000
"In the depths of winter, we discovered the warmth of loyalty, the chill of fear, and the unbreakable bonds forged by the fires of conflict."
America's "forgotten war" lasted just thirty-seven months, yet 54,246 Americans died in that time -- nearly as many as died in ten years in Vietnam. On the fiftieth anniversary of this devastating conflict, James Brady tells the story of his life as a young marine lieutenant in Korea. In 1947, seeking to avoid the draft, nineteen-year-old Jim Brady volunteered for a Marine Corps program that made him a lieutenant in the reserves on the day he graduated college. He didn't plan to find himself in command of a rifle platoon three years later facing a real enemy, but that is exactly what happened after the Chinese turned a so-called police action into a war. The Coldest War vividly describes Brady's rapid education in the realities of war and the pressures of command. Opportunities for bold offensives sink in the miasma of trench warfare; death comes in fits and starts as too-accurate artillery on both sides seeks out men in their bunkers; constant alertness is crucial for survival, while brutal cold and a seductive silence conspire to lull soldiers into an often fatal stupor. The Korean War affected the lives of all Americans, yet is little known beyond the antics of "MAS*H." Here is the inside story that deserves to be told, and James Brady is a powerful witness to a vital chapter of our history.
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“In the depths of winter, we discovered the warmth of loyalty, the chill of fear, and the unbreakable bonds forged by the fires of conflict.”
The Coldest War
By James Brady
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James Brady was a distinguished American author, known for his insightful works that often explored themes of politics and American society. His notable works include the bestselling memoir 'One More for the Road' and the critically acclaimed novels 'The Conquerors' and 'The Great Admiralty.' Brady's writing style is characterized by his sharp wit, keen observations, and a blend of humor and poignancy, making his narratives both engaging and thought-provoking. As a veteran of the United States Army and a former press secretary for a prominent Senator, Brady infused his personal experiences into his writing, providing readers with a unique perspective on the complexities of American life.
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