Review
Blowing Sandstorm by Horace Crenshaw Jr. describes his life-story leading up to his deployment in 2003 during Operation Iraq Freedom (OIF). Beginning from his childhood upbringing in Butler, Alabama, describing his youth as a young African American boy during the 70's, 80's & 90's. Coming from a Christian upbringing by a Christian mother, he covers his schooling, football to college, as his autobiography leads up to an adventure of a lifetime in the Army Reserves Active Army Reserve (AGR). His aim in writing this book is to, "... make the average person understand the hardships and challenges that the military's junior executives or company commanders face in modern day operations and warfare." His goal is accomplished within this vibrant account, mixed with faith and endurance that were developed in him, giving hope to others in the military and beyond.Inner-workings of a military officer (Officer Commander) during deployment are revealed that include: Tactical techniques and itineraries that relate operations-based protocol, concepts, and leadership before military advances begin and end. The high integrity of soldiers, commanders and officers reveal a highly organized unit that our military operates within. For the average non-military personnel (as myself) I found it interesting and amazing.Obviously, a military person would be perhaps more interested in the author's biography, but for one not in the military this comes as a highly recommended read also as to understand the inner-workings of the military and what soldiers have had to endure during certain past years of deployment to Iraq. The author personally experiences a time that has since passed as things have calmed down since 2003 to say the least. One will also become familiar with certain protocols and models used for leadership and action within a unit. Of particular interest is the technical, but relevant, "Rocket Model" which spearheaded Crenshaw's leadership of his unit.Leadership Through Mentorship is a particularly interesting chapter giving a summary of the life he lives and serves well as a outline to live life by. Other well-rounded chapters lend to the author's experience as a Commander in the Armed Forces such as: Personal Background, Years After the Tuskegee Experience, The Staff Professional, Staring Out as New Commander, Building the Team Using the Rocket Model, Preparing the Unit for War, Leadership Through Mentorship, & Conclusion.Readers will also appreciate the intertwining of Scripture, morale boosters for soldiers that kept him and his unit going, as one will truly come to appreciate anewthe sacrifices made by our military. Faced with over 130 degree heat during the day, and 110 degree nights in Iraq with pesky mosquitoes and sand mites, shortages of water, pre-made ready to eat meals (MRE'S) & no toilet facilities, one will gain a new perspective and respect for those who defend our country.In the end, he adds pictures of Iraq and himself on duty. I personally welled up in tears at the man in uniform who would put his life on the line for me and our country. You will feel the same. I did get concerned when he expressed the lack that the military faced and a "take from Peter to pay Paul" type situation and realized that military expense and suffering of our soldiers is something not to be taken lightly but that should be put as a priority in all our lives. May our government fund our military as they should is my thoughts and maybe yours too. All in all this book did stir great patriotism and was a much-appreciated breakdown of one's life in the military.This is a memorable well-written account of a life used unto the glory of God and a highly recommended read for those that may be in the military and would like inspiration during times of trial. - Christian Book Reviews
About the Author
Horace Crenshaw, Jr. received his B.S. Degree in Political Science in 1994 from Tuskegee University. He went on to receive a M.A. Degree in International Relations from Webster University in 1999 and a Master Certificate in Project Management from The George Washington University. Currently, he is a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army Reserves. His accomplishments and achievements while serving as a Commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom have been chronicled in Marquis' Who's Who in America, Who's Who in the World, and the 2007 Who's Who of Emerging Leaders (First Edition). He is married to Rhonda L. Crenshaw and they reside in Stafford, VA. Also, he has one daughter, Nilah I. Crenshaw who lives in Atlanta, GA.
