In November 1991 the American flag was lowered for the last time at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. This act brought to an end American military presence in the Philippines that extended back over 90 years. It also represented the final act in a drama that began with the initial rumblings in April of that year of the Mount Pinatubo volcano; located about nine miles to the east of Clark. The following pages tell the remarkable story of the men and women of the Clark community and their ordeal in planning for and carrying out their evacuation from Clark in face of the impending volcanic activity. It documents the actions of those who remained on the base during the series of Mount Pinatubo’s eruptions; and the packing out of the base during the subsequent months. This is the story of the “Ash Warriors;†those Air Force men and women who carried out their mission in the face of an incredible series of natural disasters; including volcanic eruption; flood; typhoons; and earthquakes; all of which plagued Clark and the surrounding areas during June and July 1991. The author of The Ash Warriors knew the situation first hand. Col. Dick Anderegg was the vice commander of the 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing when the volcano erupted; and he was at Clark throughout the evacuation and standing down of the base. He brought his own personal experience to bear in writing this story. He also conducted extensive research in the archives of the Pacific Air Forces and Thirteenth Air Force; utilized scores of interviews of those who witnessed and participated in the events; and visited Clark in 1998 to see in person how the installation had changed in the eight years since the Americans left.
#37981 in Books Simon Schuster 2017-01-10 2017-01-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.10 x 6.00l; #File Name: 147674646X368 pagesSimon Schuster
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Nice overviewBy J. GrattanThis nice overview examines not only the words of Washington’s not short Farewell; but also puts it in the context of the times. The author laments that the Farewell is basically forgotten in our time. But that is the nature of such heartfelt writings; the appeal and durability of such is usually quite limited.It’s entirely understandable that Washington felt compelled to write his Farewell. The 1790’s were turbulent times. The US Constitution was constructed because the various states were in disarray. But even after the first government was formed; there were bitter divides over newly formulated policies. In addition; the French revolution was highly controversial. Washington knew that the American experiment was a fragile undertaking. His Farewell was in fact a warning that hyper-partisanship and ill-advised entanglements with foreign powers could be the undoing of the United States.The author examines other periods in our history: the Civil War; WWI; WWII in terms of adherence to the Farewell. Of course; all of those times played out in their own way with the Farewell not being a consideration. It’s not that the Farewell is totally irrelevant; but the world is a drastically different place.It is interesting to see how much Washington struggled with his address. He did have substantial help; primarily from Alexander Hamilton. Washington really had an on-again-off-again relationship with the public. He was ultra concerned with his reputation; but insisted on being low key. His Farewell was published in only one Philadelphia newspaper and then only after he had departed for Mt. Vernon. The Farewell does enhance his reputation.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Of value to any serious student of politicsBy Joseph D. CoonsWashington's farewell address has been of interest to me for some years; especially now with political parties in such disarray. Avlon points out his vision; he was prescient about the risks of partisanship; although the flowery language of colonial leaders in the 1700s does not make for easy reading (I counted 17 subordinate clauses in just one Washington sentence). Nevertheless; this subject makes for a much better understanding of what's going on in 2017 America;An important read for anyone concerned about our nation's political direction; the author's background and research make it even more forceful.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. American history through a different lenseBy Odell J HubbardThis is a fascinating view of American history viewed through the lenses of the Farewell Address of our first president; George Washington. It displays an amazing foresight; as we are warned of the dangers of partisan politics; of foreign interference and internal division. We are admonished to recognize the vital importance of an educated citizenry who can make the important decisions of managing the country.Well researched and written; it was very educational and informative.
