Book SummaryWe Few, by Nick Brokhausen

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of We Few

The group known for its special operations was distinguished by its distinctive makeup, dynamic mission profile, and the deep connections shared by its members.

This section explores the unique bond and strong ties among the members of the Recon Company, who played a crucial role within the 5th Special Forces Group during their tenure in Vietnam. Brokhausen emphasizes the family-like bond forged through shared experiences, dark humor, and mutual respect, setting it apart from conventional army units.

Recon Company's close-knit "family" dynamic

Recon Company functions as a tightly knit "family" where members share an intense bond forged through perilous missions, dark humor, and a unique understanding of their unconventional reality.

The Shared Experiences and Dark Humor Bonding Members

Brokhausen highlights the profound camaraderie that developed among the members of scouting squads, a bond forged through common combat encounters and their collective use of sardonic wit to manage the stress. Their hazardous operations and continual brush with mortality foster a distinctive bond and mutual comprehension that distinguishes them from conventional military formations. Brokhausen often depicts the strong camaraderie among the men by detailing their bawdy humor, which typically revolves around their brushes with mortality or the ludicrousness of their circumstances. The writer portrays their ability to find humor as a crucial tool for dealing with traumatic experiences and maintaining morale in the face of the harsh reality of their own mortality.

An instance of this grim wit is observed following the author's brush with death due to an explosive-laden ammunition container. He awoke in the medical facility a few days later, surrounded by his teammates who were slightly tipsy and exchanging humorous stories. The squad's Cuban member, Castillo, humorously declares, "Ascend, wrongdoer, and receive your salvation," prompting laughter among his fellow soldiers. Cook, another member of the team, is relieved to see the author regain consciousness, not because he is worried, but because he is exhausted from answering the continuous inquiries from the local allies regarding the author's state of health. The team members were united by genuine friendship and a humor that frequently carried a sharp edge of sarcasm.

Context

• Scouting squads often undertake reconnaissance missions, which involve gathering intelligence behind enemy lines. These operations are inherently dangerous due to the need for stealth and the high risk of enemy encounters.
• The type of humor described is often starkly different from civilian humor, as it directly addresses themes of life and death, which are not commonly encountered in everyday civilian life.
• In many military cultures, dark humor is a longstanding tradition, serving as a rite of passage and a way to integrate new members into the group by sharing a common language of resilience.
• Sharing humorous stories, especially in a medical facility, underscores the importance of social support in recovery. It highlights how camaraderie and shared experiences can aid in healing both physically and mentally.
• The phrase "Ascend, wrongdoer, and receive your salvation" may play on religious or spiritual themes, often found in Christian contexts where ascension and salvation are key concepts. This could be a satirical twist on the idea of redemption, suggesting a humorous take on the author's survival.
• The constant inquiries could reflect the social dynamics and the importance of the author within the group, highlighting his role or status among both his team and local allies.
• The presence of diverse cultural backgrounds, such as a Cuban member in the squad, can influence the type of humor used, adding layers of cultural references and perspectives that enrich the group's interactions.

The Respect and Trust between Officers and Enlisted Based on Merit, Not Rank

The author analyzes traditional military frameworks, showing that within units tasked with surveillance and information gathering, members earn respect and trust through their proven abilities and expertise, rather than their designated status or level in the command structure. Captains like Manes earn respect and wield authority not solely through their rank but also by virtue of their direct combat experience and deep understanding of the realities of warfare. This shared understanding bridges the gap between officers and enlisted men, fostering a sense of mutual respect and shared responsibility.

The author's initial assignment to become part of Recon Team Habu clearly reflects the dominant culture of meritocracy. Despite his background as a non-commissioned officer, he reports to MacGlothren, a non-commissioned member who, despite having less time in service, has already completed a year in charge of a squad. When questions are raised about the unconventional structure, Captain Manes clarifies that roles are allocated based on individual combat proficiency and demonstrated skill, not on rank. The writer readily agrees, expressing his willingness to rely on MacGlothren's decision if it ensures his safe return. This approach challenges the rigid hierarchy of the conventional army, where rank often supersedes experience.

Context

• Leaders in these units may adopt a more participative or transformational leadership style, focusing on empowering individuals and leveraging their unique skills to achieve common goals, rather than relying solely on hierarchical authority.
• Direct combat experience provides leaders with firsthand knowledge of battlefield conditions, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions and gain the trust of their subordinates.
• In environments where mutual respect is based on shared understanding, communication tends to be more open and effective. This can lead to better decision-making, as input is valued from all levels...

We Few Summary The team carried out operations that were both risky and bold.

This segment of the narrative delves into the diverse missions executed by a specialized military unit, highlighting the dangers they faced, the constant threat of exposure, and their reliance on stealth tactics, swift judgment calls, and harmonized support from higher-ranking officials.

Area Reconnaissance Missions Deep into Enemy Territory

Recon Company's primary responsibility is to embark on missions that penetrate deeply into enemy territory to collect intelligence by conducting reconnaissance of the area. Their success hinges on their capacity for stealthy movement, skill in pursuit, and an intimate knowledge of the wooded landscape.

The constant threat of detection and the severe repercussions that would follow.

Conducting area reconnaissance missions is fraught with danger, and if discovered by the enemy, the team might face adversaries with overwhelming numbers, relying on their skill, ingenuity, and vital support from higher-ups for their survival. Brokhausen portrays the missions as perpetually filled with stress, where even subtle sounds like the rustling of leaves or the snap of a twig could signal a nearby enemy scout. The soldiers navigate the dense...

We Few Summary The military personnel underwent significant personal and psychological changes.

The narrative explores the psychological impacts of war on soldiers, highlighting the author's own struggles with fear, the surge of adrenaline, and the way relentless exposure to battle can desensitize a person's emotional responses. Brokhausen navigates between dark humor and moments of deep reflection, showcasing the complex ways in which these men cope with the trauma they experience.

The sequence of fear and adrenaline that culminates in what is termed as "Prisoner" or "Mission" Fever.

Brokhausen portrays the group's experiences as a constant oscillation between trepidation and exhilaration. The constant threat of death creates a heightened state of alertness, fueled by a potent mix of fear and anticipation. Intervals designated for recuperation and leisure are frequently marked by an uneasy vigor, driven by the need to alleviate the perpetual expectation of peril through activity.

The yearning for activity serves as a means to divert oneself from the foreboding of peril.

Brokhausen illustrates how the interplay between fear and excitement can culminate in what is commonly known as "prisoner fever" or "mission fever," a condition marked by an intense desire for...

We Few Summary The Conflicts and Challenges Faced Within the Larger Military Bureaucracy

The unconventional methods and independent operations of Recon Company frequently led to conflicts with the military's strict systems and formal processes, underscoring the disparity between the troops on the front lines and the distant authorities managing the war.

The unconventional methods employed by Recon clashed with the standard procedures of the traditional Army.

Brokhausen illustrates that the operations conducted by reconnaissance companies often necessitated modifications and occasionally deviated from the military's standard protocols. Their nontraditional uniform choices, unique strategies for obtaining supplies, and indifference to established military rank and order distinctly distinguished them from the conventional military principles that were widespread within the larger army framework.

The cultural clash took place at the Special Forces Operations Base in Nha Trang, between the staff and individuals in support roles.

The writer adeptly captures the strain by depicting encounters with staff members at the Special Forces Operating Base in Nha Trang, who epitomize the ultimate commitment to procedural rules. They endure dismissive examinations, face...

We Few Summary The team employed unconventional equipment and tactics.

Recon Company distinguishes itself through its willingness to employ unconventional weapons and strategies, constantly adapting to the shifting nature of guerrilla warfare to secure any possible edge that might increase their chances of survival.

The Employment of Silenced Weapons

Recon Company gains a significant tactical advantage by employing weapons engineered for silent operation, essential for both monitoring and apprehending enemy forces. They employ the utmost discretion in their operations, enabling them to neutralize adversaries and secure captives while minimizing the chance of engaging in an extensive gun battle.

The Quiet Effectiveness for Eliminating Targets and Capturing Prisoners

Brokhausen underscores the importance of utilizing silent weaponry, particularly in operations focused on capturing detainees where discretion and precision are of utmost importance. They rapidly overpowered the sentinels and captured their objectives, employing hushed firearms and Ingrams to advance rapidly without drawing attention. The writer underscores the importance of their preparation in maintaining this equilibrium, adeptly utilizing weapons with suppressors to...