The 7th Infantry Regiment: Combat in an Age of Terror, the Korean War through the Present

Synopsis

The 7th Infantry's motto, "Willing and Able," speaks volumes about its past. Throughout America's history, the soldiers of this regiment have proven through their sacrifice, their bloodshed, and their sweat that they are willing and able to fight America's wars. At practically every crucial moment in America's wars, the 7th has been there, shaping the future of the country and, by extension, the world.

Acclaimed historian John C. McManus takes us through the amazing history of this ever-present regiment in modern warfare, from Korea to our current toils in the Middle East. More than anything, McManus' narrative tells the tale of those ordinary infantrymen who have always made up the 7th. These soldiers have usually been unremarkable, ordinary individuals, but they have always been, and probably always will be, the heart and soul of the United States Army.

The 7th is a vital part of our military tradition. And McManus gives a complete account of their struggles, anguish, fears, sacrifices, triumphs, and pride. McManus's narrative of the 7th provides a compelling glimpse of not only the infantryman's journey through American history, but the shaping of our nation as a whole.

"Everyone's heard of the 7th Cavalry, but our 7th Infantry Regiment has even more battle streamers on its flag and a more impressive record of victories.  John C. McManus has paid the Cottonbalers (the nickname recalls their valor at the Battle of New Orleans) a worthy and overdue tribute in this superb chronicle of battalion-by-battalion heroism from Korea to Iraq.  Grab this book--and buy a copy for a soldier you know!"  Ralph Peters, LTC (USA, Ret.), Author of "Wars of Blood and Faith"

"McManus masterfully captures the heart and soul of the warriors of the 7th--remarkable storytelling by a highly skilled historian."  W.E.B. Griffin, #1 New York Times bestselling author of "The Hostage"

"One of our foremost military historians, John C. McManus, has written a powerful, visceral tribute to every American who ever served in combat.  Nominally, about one American army unit, the book is really about the American soldier, why he serves and why he fights.  McManus puts flesh and faces on the term 'home of the brave.'  This book brought tears to my eyes and filled my heart with pride."  Stephen Coonts, New York Times bestselling author of "The Assassin"

"What a terrific book!  This is military history that people will be reading ad rereading fifty years from now.  It takes the reader into the mystic soul of the U.S. Army.  As always, John McManus has rooted it in the men, in their stories.  Sometimes they break your heart, but collectively they make you proud to share this country with them.  I can't wait to read the next volume."  Thomas Fleming, author of fifty books, including "Perils of Peace: America's Struggle for Survival after Yorktown"