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

Robert Coram's biography details the life of Victor "Brute" Krulak, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War across a thirty-four-year military career. Krulak was known for applying innovative combat methods to the Marine Corps. He undertook dangerous spy missions, was severely wounded, pioneered the use of amphibious vehicles, and planned the invasion of Okinawa. During the Korean War, he became a combat hero and introduced helicopter warfare. In Vietnam, he created a comprehensive strategy that differed significantly from the Army's "Search and Destroy" approach. When he objected to this strategy and protested to President Johnson, he faced retaliation. Beyond these accomplishments, Krulak played a crucial role in preventing the U.S. government from eliminating the Marine Corps—both after World War II and again after Korea, largely through his individual efforts.