Book Review: They Called Us "Lucky": The Life and Afterlife of the Iraq War's Hardest Hit Unit

They Called us Lucky Book Cover

They Called Us "Lucky" by Ruben Gallego and Jim DeFelice is a raw, unflinching memoir that chronicles the harrowing experiences of Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, during their 2005 deployment in Iraq. As one of the hardest-hit units of the Iraq War, Lima Company endured relentless combat, devastating losses, and the enduring psychological toll of war. Congressman Ruben Gallego, a former Marine and member of the unit, offers a deeply personal account, blending visceral battlefield narratives with reflections on the long-term impact of trauma, camaraderie, and survival. Co-authored with Jim DeFelice, the book is both a tribute to the fallen and a meditation on the resilience of those who carry the weight of their service.

Narrative and Themes

The narrative begins in the chaotic streets of Iraq, where Lima Company faced near-daily insurgent attacks, roadside bombs, and ambushes. Gallego vividly captures the intensity of combat, from the adrenaline-fueled moments of clearing houses to the gut-wrenching loss of comrades. The book’s title, derived from the unit’s ironic nickname, underscores the paradox of surviving when so many did not—41 members of the battalion were killed, and over 300 wounded. Gallego’s prose is direct and unembellished, reflecting the no-nonsense ethos of the Marines, while DeFelice’s storytelling expertise ensures a cohesive and engaging structure.

What sets this memoir apart is its unflinching exploration of the “afterlife” of war. Gallego delves into the struggles of reintegration, grappling with PTSD, survivor’s guilt, and the challenge of finding purpose in civilian life. His journey from Marine to congressman is not framed as a triumphant arc but as a complex, ongoing process of healing and advocacy. The book also highlights the bonds forged in combat, portraying Lima Company’s survivors as a family bound by shared sacrifice. Gallego’s reflections on leadership, duty, and the cost of war resonate deeply, offering insights that transcend the battlefield.

Personal Parallels

As a veteran of the U.S. Air Force with 12 years of service, I found They Called Us "Lucky" profoundly relatable, despite the differences between my experience and Gallego’s. Like Gallego, I deployed multiple times in support of operations in conflict zones, including Afghanistan, where the constant threat of danger—whether from rocket attacks or the psychological strain of prolonged missions—shaped daily life. The book’s depiction of camaraderie mirrored my own memories of relying on my wingmen for support, whether serving on a Personal Security Detachment (PSD) team in Afghanistan or sharing moments of levity to cope with stress. Gallego’s account of losing comrades hit particularly close to home; I recall the somber weight of hundreds of funerals I attended while serving on the Honor Guard, where the stark reality of our own mortality leaves a lasting impression even long after one leaves military service.

My military biography highlights my role in IT and communications, ensuring mission-critical systems functioned in high-stakes environments. This technical focus differed from Lima Company’s ground combat, yet the underlying sense of duty and teamwork was strikingly similar. Gallego’s emphasis on the toll of war also resonated with my post-service transition. Navigating civilian life, from pursuing a federal GS job to engaging in community leadership with the American Legion, required reconciling my military identity with new roles—much like Gallego’s shift to public service. His candid discussion of PTSD and mental health challenges echoed conversations I’ve had with fellow veterans, underscoring the universal struggle to process wartime experiences.

Strengths and Critiques

They Called Us "Lucky" excels in its authenticity and emotional depth, though it occasionally leans heavily on military jargon, which may challenge civilian readers. Additionally, while Gallego’s personal story is compelling, some readers might wish for deeper exploration of his political journey to provide context for his advocacy. Nevertheless, the book is a powerful testament to the human cost of war and the strength required to rebuild afterward.

Conclusion

For veterans, this memoir is a mirror reflecting the pride, pain, and perseverance of service. The audiobook is read by Ruben himself and he does infact get emotional. You can feel the emotion through his voice. I was left in tears multiple times when I listened to the audiobook. For civilians, it’s an essential window into the realities of combat and its lasting echoes. Gallego and DeFelice have crafted a work that honors Lima Company’s legacy while challenging readers to confront the true cost of war. As an Air Force veteran, I recommend They Called Us "Lucky" not only for its gripping narrative but for its unflinching honesty about the sacrifices that define military life.

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