These rah rah military books get old and, unfortunately, I've read I guess one too many. I get that Spec Ops does cool stuff but that does not mean the the Spec Ops view of the world is right. Whatever... a mildly entertaining view of marine schooling. There are better, more exciting, books about Marines but this was OK. ( )

Always Faithful, Always Forward The Forging of A Special Operations Marine
By Couch, Dick

If you think Marines are just muscle bound teenagers who want to defend their country with a taste for violence this book will prove you wrong. Special Operators are a class of warrior with specialized training in combat techniques, language, and diplomatic skills. The business of special operations is different from that of general purpose military forces. Their assignments are more focused and unusual. They are under the general control of US Special Forces Command There are 4 major combat organizations that are tasked to SOCOM, Navy Seals, Army Special Forces (i.e. Green Berets), Arrny 75th Ranger Regiment, and the Marine Special Operations Regiment. Entry into one of these units is on a voluntary basis. Entry is considered a privilege that is fought for and completion of training is not guaranteed. The drop out rate during the training period some of these units is close to 70%.This book focuses on the selection, training, and assignment of these special men, as they enter the Marine Special Operations Regiment. The book goes into great detail covering all the phases of training. Its coverage of one of the classes takes on the feel of reality television show, where not everyone wins the prize of becoming a warrior diplomat . I left the book with a greatly increased respect for both the military and the men who apply for undergo the training to become a member of very exclusive fraternity of Special Operators. ( )