Outrage

Author's Original Note

Author’s Original NoteLike most provocative works of fiction, this book contains large dollops of fantasy woven around a solid core of fact. Most of the events described during the deployment of American Marines to Beirut did not occur exactly as I have written them, but there is no escaping the fact that our government brutally abused the commitment, willing sacrifice, and admirable discipline of its frontline fighting force in Beirut.

A noxious admixture of political concerns and a vaguely stated military mission, a narrow-minded adherence to ludicrous Rules of Engagement in the face of an escalating threat, and a failure to back commitment with sufficient military might all led to the tragic death of 241 Marines, sailors, and soldiers in the bombing on October 23, 1983, as well as others before and after that infamous day.

Although it’s an easy exercise to match some of my fictional players with factual counterparts, readers should not presume actual identities for any of the characters in this book. They are all composites of people I've known, loved or hated during service in Beirut and elsewhere around the world. Veterans of The Root who insist on seeing themselves in one or more of the personalities I've introduced should remember that fiction is usually more interesting than fact.

Three Marine Amphibious Units (MAUs) of varying compositions served in Beirut during the American military commitment to Lebanon. I mention the 32d MAU and focus on the 24th MAU simply to avoid reader confusion with a constantly shifting cast of characters during regular rotation and redesignation of 32/24/22 MAUs in and out of Beirut. Also given short shrift or ignored in the telling of my story is the sacrifice and commitment of various French, Italian, and British components of the Multinational Peacekeeping Force. No offense is intended, and I sincerely hope those nations will not reflect negatively on their experiences in Beirut the next time Western military solidarity is required.

To the families of the men who were killed or wounded in Beirut, I extend my deepest sympathies. I was proud to have served with such heroes.