'On Killing' by Dave Grossman

On Killing

If you have not read this book, read it. It does not specifically deal with
WWII, but it discussed the psychological cost of killing in war. It is by far the best book on war psychology that I have yet read. It also has many interesting stories from WWII in it as well as others from Rhodesia, Vietnam, Civil War, and WWI. The author, Dave Grossman, is a retired airborne Lieutenant-Colnel who served in the middle east and saw much combat. His interviews with veterans of wars and his own personal experiences combine for an unforgettable study of killing. If you are interested in WWII or war psychology, then read this book.

 

I have to agree, one of the better reads on a difficult subject!!

 

I came across Grossman's books when researching on the psychological aspects of warfare on soldiers. Little is written about the mental aspect of it all. I came across some stories of, especially family members of veterans, and one or two who were very candid about this aspect. I was triggered by the story of two NCO's of the 101st who committed suicide at Mourmelon, France after Market Garden and could not face the prospect of more combat.

Quite a bit is known about the consequences of war on the psyche of men after WWI. A whole generation of (young) men was deeply affected, but about WWII not much was written. As I said, I have come across more and more stories of wrecked family live, substance abuse and suicide, all related to experiences of these men during the war.

Grossman's books, articles and initerviews gave me a lot of insight into this aspect. It is a subject I am interested in, but as I am no psychologist, I decided not to venture further.

But this is absolutely recommended reading...

 

side note and brief ........... good to see you back friend !

E ~

 

You too, Erich. It has been too long! Lots of reasons, no excuses.....

 

He looks at the aspect of soldiers missing their shots on purpose during combat. I dissagree with that, also an individual on Amazon left a good response as too why so much ammunition is wasted, targets missed etc etc.

Does he mention in his book that some of these soldiers might already have an underlying mental problem that is bought to surface during/after war..

 

I think that is always the case with an extreme situation like combat. It brings the best and the worst out of people.

I remember writing with a veteran of the 100th Inf Div who wrote he was really not sure if he wanted to be in this war. During the whole campaign he shot his gun only three times, and when he had a German in his sights he "made damn well sure he missed"....