A pulse-pounding, heart-wrenching tale of bravery and brotherhood set against the backdrop of America’s “forgotten war” in Korea — from the New York Times bestselling author of “A Higher Call”, “Devotion” tells the inspirational story of the U.S. Navy’s most famous aviator duo: Lieutenant Tom Hudner, a white, blue-blooded New Englander, and Ensign Jesse Brown, an African American sharecropper’s son from Mississippi.
Ensign Brown, if I’ve learned anything, it’s that death’s gonna get us all, but we’ve got some say in how we go. You die flying a Corsair, well, that says enough.
Adam Makos’s “Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice” has garnered widespread acclaim for its gripping portrayal of the bond between Naval aviators Lt. Tom Hudner and Ensign Jesse Brown during the Korean War. The book meticulously reconstructs the events surrounding Brown’s tragic downing and Hudner’s desperate, selfless attempt to rescue him, leaving many readers deeply moved. However, while undeniably a compelling narrative, “Devotion” warrants a closer examination, particularly regarding its historical accuracy and handling of complex racial themes.
Makos excels in crafting a vivid and immersive reading experience. He paints a compelling portrait of Hudner and Brown, delving into their backgrounds, motivations, and burgeoning friendship. The book’s strength lies in its detailed account of the combat missions flown by VF-32, the squadron to which both pilots belonged. Makos masterfully recreates the atmosphere of the Korean War, the dangers faced by naval aviators, and the psychological toll it took on them. The flying sequences are particularly well-executed, drawing readers into the cockpit and immersing them in the heart-stopping intensity of air combat.
However, “Devotion” occasionally sacrifices nuance for dramatic effect. While the book is based on extensive research, including interviews with surviving veterans and access to official records, some critics have questioned the absolute fidelity to factual accuracy. Certain scenes and conversations seem to be embellished for narrative impact, potentially blurring the line between historical record and dramatic interpretation. This is a common challenge in historical narratives, but it’s crucial for readers to remain aware of the possibility of artistic license at play.
Furthermore, the book’s treatment of race, while well-intentioned, sometimes falls short of fully exploring the complexities of the era. “Devotion” rightly highlights the racial barriers faced by Jesse Brown, the Navy’s first African American aviator. It portrays the prejudice he endured and the quiet determination with which he overcame it. However, the narrative often frames Brown’s experience through the lens of Hudner’s admiration and support, potentially overshadowing the broader systemic issues of racism within the Navy and American society at the time. While Hudner’s friendship and loyalty are undeniably commendable, focusing solely on this individual act of empathy can inadvertently downplay the pervasive inequality Brown confronted.
Moreover, the book sometimes simplifies the motivations and personalities of the Korean people and the conflict itself. The portrayal of the enemy is often one-dimensional, lacking the depth and complexity required for a nuanced understanding of the war. This is not uncommon in war narratives, but it’s a limitation that prevents “Devotion” from offering a truly comprehensive perspective.
In conclusion, “Devotion” is a powerful and engaging story that successfully brings to life the courage and camaraderie of Tom Hudner and Jesse Brown. It serves as a valuable tribute to their sacrifice and highlights the importance of their friendship. However, readers should approach the book with a critical eye, recognizing the potential for narrative embellishment and the limitations in its exploration of complex historical and social issues. While “Devotion” provides a compelling window into a specific moment in history, it should be viewed not as a definitive historical account, but rather as a dramatic interpretation of a remarkable story of heroism and devotion. The book’s power lies in its ability to evoke emotion and inspire admiration, but it’s essential to supplement it with broader historical analysis to gain a fuller understanding of the Korean War and the challenges faced by African Americans in the mid-20th century.