Brute: The Life of Victor Krulak, U.S. Marine

By Robert Coram

Book Overview

From the earliest days of his thirty-four-year military career, Victor "Brute" Krulak displayed a remarkable facility for applying creative ways of fighting to the Marine Corps. He went on daring spy missions, was badly wounded, pioneered the use of amphibious vehicles, and masterminded the invasion of Okinawa. In Korea, he was a combat hero and invented the use of helicopters in warfare. In Vietnam, he developed a holistic strategy in stark contrast to the Army's "Search and Destroy" methods -- but when he stood up to LBJ to protest, he was punished.

And yet it can be argued that all of his these accomplishments pale in comparison to what he did after World War II and again after Korea: Krulak almost single-handedly stopped the U.S. government from abolishing the Marine Corps.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0316067431
• ISBN13: 9780316067430
• Release Date: November 2011
• Publisher: Back Bay Books
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 0.88 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.5" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

This is a great one...the book and its subject

Brute by Robert Coram is an outstanding biography that brings the life of General Victor "Brute" Krulak vividly to life. Coram masterfully combines historical research with engaging storytelling, creating a book that is both informative and difficult to put down. The author provides a fascinating look at Krulak's leadership, innovation, and influence on the United States Marine Corps, while also exploring the challenges and controversies he faced throughout his career. What makes the book especially compelling is its balanced portrayal of Krulak as both a brilliant military strategist and a deeply human figure. Coram's writing captures the complexity of military decision-making and offers valuable insights into leadership, courage, and perseverance. Even readers with little prior knowledge of military history will find the narrative accessible and engaging. Overall, Brute is an exceptional biography that offers important lessons on leadership, service, and strategic thinking. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in military history, leadership studies, or the remarkable individuals who have shaped American institutions.