Call of Duty: My Life Before, During, and After the Band of Brothers
A member of the elite 101st Airborne paratroopers recounts his life, from his sports career at UCLA, to his experiences during World War II, to his post-war legal career as a prosecutor and his role in helping to convict Sirhan Sirhan for the murder of Robert Kennedy.
The national bestselling World War II memoir with a foreword by John McCain. As part of the elite 101st Airborne paratroopers, Lt. Lynn “Buck” Compton fought in critical battles of World War II as a member of Easy Company, immortalized as the Band of Brothers.
This is the true story of a real-life hero. From his years as a two-sport UCLA star who played baseball with Jackie Robinson and football in the 1943 Rose Bowl, through his legendary post-World War II legal career as a prosecutor, in which he helped convict Sirhan Sirhan for the murder of Robert F. Kennedy, Buck Compton’s story truly embodies the American Dream: college sports star, esteemed combat veteran, detective, attorney, judge.
Second Lieutenant Compton commanded the second platoon of Easy Company in the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, part of the famed 101st Airborne Division about which so many tales are told. In an episode familiar to any viewer of the “Band of Brothers” series, in 1944 Buck Compton and others assaulted a German battery operating four 105 mm howitzers directed at Utah Beach, disabling the guns and routing the enemy. Buck was awarded the Silver Star for that action. Later, after being wounded in an operation aimed at seizing bridges in the Netherlands, Buck returned to his unit in time for the month-long siege that would in time become known as the Battle of the Bulge.
Sometimes the greatest signs of strength are demonstrated when you relive the hardest parts of your life. I’m not a man easily given to emotion. I hate to cry. Yet there are three things that cause me to tear up today. One is when I talk about the love I have for America. The second I’ll tell you about later in this book. The third is whenever I remember by dad’s suicide.
Call of Duty by Lynn Compton is a captivating and remarkable memoir that provides an authentic and firsthand account of his experiences as a member of the Band of Brothers during World War II. Compton’s writing style is engaging and his attention to detail is commendable, allowing readers to vividly visualize the events he describes.
One of the strengths of this book is Compton’s ability to convey the emotional and psychological toll of war. He offers a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by soldiers on the front lines, sharing both the triumphs and the tragedies. Compton’s introspective reflections add depth to the narrative and make it a truly compelling read.
Moreover, Compton’s storytelling is supported by his credibility and expertise as a member of the Band of Brothers. His firsthand knowledge and personal experiences lend credibility to the events he recounts, instilling trust in the reader and validating the authenticity of his memoir.
Furthermore, Call of Duty not only provides a gripping account of Compton’s wartime experiences but also offers valuable insights into the camaraderie and bond forged among the soldiers. The book explores themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and sacrifice, showcasing the resilience and courage of those who served.
In conclusion, Call of Duty is an exceptional memoir that captures the essence of war through Lynn Compton’s compelling narrative. It stands as a testament to the heroism and sacrifices made by the Band of Brothers and is a must-read for anyone interested in World War II history and the human experiences within it.