On Combat, The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and in Peace Reviews

• A MUST read for all "warriors".

  
  By A32LTS09EAGX9L on 2005-03-26
  This book explores in detail what physically and mentally happens to most people when confronted with a deadly threat. Both authors have written previous books dealing with this subject. This collaboration brings together the best both have to offer.
  
  Col. Grossman has an extensive military background as a member of the Army Rangers. His book, On Killing, was written over a decade ago and is still one of the definitive words on the subject. Through research and interviews, Col. Grossman was able to open a window into the soul of a "warrior" and explain why even when directly threatened, it is not a simple thing to take another human beings life.
  
  Loren Christensen is a former police office and co-author of another excellent use of force book, Deadly Force Encounters. That book focused on law enforcement experiences with lethal force. Again through interviews and research, Christensen, and his co-author Dr. Alexis Artwohl, gave a human face to the peace officer forced to kill.
  
  On Combat combines the world of the military combat veteran with that of the police officer. The authors contention is that both are worthy of the term "warrior". The "warrior" is the 1% who protects the 98% from the remaining 1% who would do them harm.
  
  The book is divided into four sections. Each section deals with a different aspect of combat but always from the perspective of how a human deals with combat.
  
  The first section is titled, "The Physiology of Combat: The Anatomy of the Human Body in Battle". The authors describe a basic element of combat as the "Universal Human Phobia". That phobia is the innate human aversion to killing one of their own. With only a small percentage of the population as an exception, human beings will find it difficult to take another human's life in a face to face confrontation.
  
  Equally as important to understand is the body's reactions to being attacked. Interpersonal human aggression creates a "toxic and corrosive" atmosphere in the daily work of warriors everywhere. Our bodies will respond in ways that we may not be able to control but must understand nonetheless if we are to competently handle a lethal threat. Automatic systems designed for thoughtless survival kick into gear. Adrenaline is released, digestive processes cease and even bladder and sphincter control is lost. These are things to prepare for and not be surprised should they happen.
  
  
  
  
  The automatic systems in place are the sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic (PNS) nervous systems. The SNS arouses use to action when necessary and the PNS works to regain control and establish a balance in your body. The snapping back of your body from the arousal to an attempt at normalcy can be a dangerous condition. Napoleon said, "The moment of greatest vulnerability is the instant immediately after victory." It may not only be a physical collapse but also a dangerous mental collapse as well.
  
  Maintaining good sleep habits, which would include a minimum of 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep, is very important to aid in the bodies' maintenance. Less than that places unneeded stress on the body. There is an amount of stress is actually beneficial, however, that is caused by increasing your heart rate. The increase must be caused by SNS arousal. Heart rate increases caused by exercise will not have the same effect. The authors emphasize that the numbers are not precise and different people will have different experiences depending on factors such as training and physical fitness levels.
  Of particular interest is the fact that it appears that an hormonal induced heart rate of 115-145 bpm produces an optimal level of performance in those skills most necessary for combat and survival. Complex motor skills, visual reaction time and cognitive reaction time are all at their peak.
  
  The reason for bringing this information to the reader's attention is to emphasize the importance of realistic and stressful training which can create almost an "autopilot" response to a deadly threat. It is also important not to allow your heart rate to climb too much higher than 145 bpm. Generally, your skill level and reaction times begin to deteriorate when heart rates go beyond 145 bpm.
  
  One major way to combat stress and its negative effects is through tactical breathing. The authors describe that there are only two autonomic nervous system actions you can consciously control; breathing and blinking. Of the two, controlling your breathing will be of great benefit during a stressful situation. You can decrease your heart rate by practicing tactical breathing. The breaths should be deep `belly breaths', that is, during inhaling, your stomach expands like a balloon. Each step is done while mentally counting to four. The four simple steps to this breathing are:
  In through the nose, two, three, four.
  Hold two, three, four.
  Out through the lips two, three, four.
  Hold two, three, four.
  
  This tactical breathing sequence is most effective when repeated at least four times.
  
  Section two of the book discusses the possible perceptual distortions that may occur during a lethal force encounter. The authors use information collected by Dr. Alexis Artwohl and Loren Christensen in preparation for the writing of their book, Deadly Force Encounters. The findings were based on a survey of 141 officers. These findings described the most common distortions that occurred.
  
  Perceptual Distortions in Combat
  85% Diminished sound (auditory exclusion)
  16% Intensified sounds
  80% Tunnel vision
  4% Automatic pilot ("scared speechless")
  72% Heightened visual clarity
  65% Slow motion time
  16% Fast motion time
  7% Temporary paralysis
  51% Memory loss for parts of the event
  47% Memory loss for some of the subject's actions
  40% Dissociation (detachment)
  26% Intrusive distracting thoughts
  22% Memory distortions
  
  
  It is important to note that some people may have experienced more than one type of distortion while others experience none at all. Again, having knowledge of a possible experiential distortion will prepare an officer for its occurrence, thereby providing an `inoculation' against its effects.
  
  Section three describes the mental attitude necessary to be a warrior. The book goes into greater detail about stress inoculation and its importance to effective, realistic training. There are also some important training principles outlined.
  
  Principle 1: Never "Kill" a Warrior in Training. Learners are expected to complete a scenario even if hit, stabbed or shot. As a trainer, tell them, "You're not dead until I tell you you're dead!" Don't give up, always win.
  
  Principle 2: Try to Never Send a Loser off Your Training Site. Have your participants go through a scenario as many times as necessary in order to have them succeed. Scenarios designed to make the trainee look foolish or fail just prove that the training designers are jerks.
  
  Principle 3: As a Trainer, Never Talk Trash about Your Students. Don't ridicule or try to tell funny stories about the last trainee who tried to complete your scenario. Your role as a trainer/leader is not only to pass along knowledge but also to inspire. You cannot do this when you are not respected. If criticism is to be given, give it in private. If praise is warranted, do so publicly.
  
  Encourage your learners not to worry over a `bad' day of training. Fix the problem, correct the deficiency, strive to improve and move on.
  
  The will to do the job (kill if necessary) is sometimes enough to change a situation from one of having to use lethal force to something less. The determination to perform the ultimate act may be perceived by the intended recipient of your force and in itself be enough to deter their actions. If you've got that steel-eyed certainty in your eyes, the bad guy may not wish to actually test your resolve. You are the weapon; everything else is just a tool.
  
  Your resolve to succeed must include the possibility of losing some blood. You can loose a half-gallon of blood and your body will continue to mechanically function. Ceasing to fight before that much blood is lost is due to a lack of will, not lack of hydraulics.
  
  You need three very simple things in order to survive a lethal encounter; the right weapon, the skill to use that weapon, and the mental decision to use that weapon, even if it means that someone may die. This decision must be made well in advance of a time during the confrontation with the deadly threat. At the time you are confronted with violence is not the time to wonder whether or not you can respond with deadly force if necessary.
  
  The remaining chapters in this section discuss the history of weaponry (and its effect on combat), and some superior reasoning for the increase in school violence. Although both subjects were interesting, I chose not to include them in this review since my emphasis was on the mental and emotional preparation for deadly force use.
  
  The fourth and last section of the book deals with the aftermath; what does a person feel like after they have taken a life. One of the most common reactions expressed is relief, "Better him than me". This feeling can often lead to guilt of sorts, "Why did he make me kill him". Although the feeling of relief is perfectly natural, allowing that to progress into guilt is not. After all, winning a deadly force encounter is certainly cause to feel happy about being alive.
  
  The authors contend that there are ways of handling an emotional upheaval such as having to kill someone. First, you cannot act like it did not happen. You should talk about it, preferably with a mental health professional. Second, after a year or so has passed, you should not be unduly affected emotionally by remembering the event. As the authors put it, "The memory must be separated from the emotion." If the fear of the repeat of such an event has a significant negative impact on your day to day life you should seek the help of a mental health professional. Examples of this could include; not being able to go near the area an event occurred without feeling anxiety or having nightmares about the event.
  The critical incident debrief is also an excellent way to assist personnel in getting through what can be an emotionally tough time. By debriefing we can reconstruct the event in hopes of finding out what worked and what didn't. We can also fill in the holes (if any exist) by bringing all involved parties together and thereby get a much better overall view of the incident. A positive emotional side-effect of this is that pain shared with others is divided amongst the group and not the sole burden of any one person. Additionally, joy shared is multiplied and everyone can feel better at another person's accomplishment and success.
  
  Another important way to assist is simply by letting your friend or loved one know that you are glad they are O.K. It is not necessary to try and approve or justify their actions but just let them know that you are happy that they're O.K. An offer of your personal time to listen or help with anything else they might need would go far in letting them know how important that they are.
  
  One of the last points to be made in this book is the idea of justice not vengeance. Although not considered to be a major problem in law enforcement, it is nonetheless important to emphasize that killing, when justified and necessary, is not something to be glorified or celebrated. It is just something that is. When forced to kill another human being is not something we do with a hatred of the crook or glee at their demise. We just do it. We must strive to dispassionately but effectively protect others as well as ourselves.
  
  Steve Winchell is a 27 year veteran of southern California law enforcement. He has been a firearms instructor for the past 9 years. For the past 3 years he has been a full time member of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department Weapons Training Unit.
  
  
  

• Wow!

  
  By A2IO1ESNSIAXG3 on 2004-11-08
  Advertising for this marvelous work states, "a ground-breaking examination of what it takes to perform, cope and survive in the toxicity of deadly combat as a soldier in a foreign land and a police officer in the mean streets of urban America." It really is all that, and more... Outstanding isn't a strong enough word to describe it.
  
  If you are a soldier, a police officer, a martial artist, the holder of a concealed weapons permit, or just live in a bad neighborhood you really ought to read this book. Both authors have engaged in deadly conflict, been forced to kill, and learned to survive the experience yet continue to conduct themselves as decent human beings. Not only do they know what they are talking about, but they are introspective enough to understand a larger picture of what they have endured and are clearly articulate this hard won wisdom. Their thought provoking, insightful work definitively examines every aspect of the psychology and physiology of deadly conflict.
  
  The book begins by describing what happens to a person anatomically during a battle then covers the perceptual distortions that take place in combat. Having done college studies on eyewitness testimony and psychology and the law I recognize and agree with many of their points. The second half of the book covers why people put themselves in harms way and what happens to them after the smoke clears. It talks about post traumatic stress disorder, survivor's guilt, and a host of related subjects. I particularly liked the section on the Judeo/Christian views of killing which really help warriors understand and come to grips with their actions in battle - be it on the field of war, a city street, or even in their own back yard.
  
  The research is great. The various vignettes and quotes are quite interesting. Even if you are never involved in a deadly encounter it really helps you understand and have a new appreciation for those who are. I have several friends and relatives in the military as well as a few in law enforcement. This book is going to be one of their holiday presents. This compelling study isn't just for professional warriors, however. Anyone with an affinity for martial arts like myself will find it an excellent read as well.
  
  Lt. Col. Grossman is a retired U.S. Army Ranger, scholar, and the Pulitzer nominated author of On Killing, another great book. Loren Christensen is one of my favorite martial arts authors. A retired police officer, Vietnam veteran, and 7th Dan black belt he really knows his stuff. Gavin DeBecker who writes the foreword is an expert on preventing violence and author of The Gift of Fear, the definitive work on that subject.
  
  Lawrence Kane
  Author of Surviving Armed Assaults and Martial Arts Instruction; co-author of The Way of Kata, The Way to Black Belt, and The Little Black Book of Violence
  
  

• A Non Warrior's Review

  
  By AI5OR1HSYXCCL on 2007-05-07
  Many of the prior reviews were from those who go into danger to protect our nation and our neighborhoods. Their universal acclaim speaks volumes about the quality and integrity of Grossman's work in providing the tools to perform, sruvive and return.
  
  On another level the book provides the average citizen the start of an understanding of how much different combat ( in Iraq and the liquor store holdup gone wrong) is different from what we see on TV, read in the papers and hear from those "professionals" who regularly review the performance of those who were engaged in combat. The book is a true eyeopener. On a personal level the book helped me understand what happened, how through chance I survived an armed robbery /kidnaping gone wrong.
  
  For the concerned citizen the book serves another purpose and that is to validate Grossman's credentials to have written Stop Teaching Our Children To Kill. Sadly Grossman was not called upon to appear on TV during the non-stop coverage of the Virginia Tech killings. Perhaps the reason the book does not get the coverage it deserves is the direct and indirect threat it poses to much of the media.
  
  Both On Combat and Stop Killing Our Children are great contributions and highly recommended.
  
  

• A Must Read For All Cops & Soldiers

  
  By A3IA2PG9P73P0B on 2005-05-27
  After reading "ON COMBAT", I bought 2 more copies for relatives in law enforcement and another 8 copies for the Sheriff's Office I work for. As a person with over 25 years in law enforcement and a tour in Vietnam, I highly recommend this book for anyone in law enforcement, the military, and their families.
  
  It not only provides a wealth of information on surviving deadly force encounters, both physically and mentally, but it does so in a very easy to read format. Everyone I loan my copy to says they hate to put it down once they start it.
  
  The book contains many insightful first-hand accounts from people who have been in deadly force encounters.
  
  I was so impressed with the book, I added a 1 hour segment to my law enforcement 1st Aid /CPR courses to share highlights from "On Combat" with my fellow officers because it offers much that can enhance their safety and their well being.
  
  The section dealing with the influence of violent video games on our children and their desensitization to violent behavior is something every parent should know.
  
  If you are a cop, a soldier, or a trainer of either, this book should be required reading!
  
  
  
  

• On Combat - A "Must Read" for Every American

  
  By A27QEVFTZF74ZD on 2005-07-25
  With its short chapters and many real life examples and literary quotes, this is an easy read, not a text book. The style will appeal to many in its intended audience who don't have the time or inclination to read long wordy tomes, no matter how important their message. It's obvious where LTC Grossman first learned to teach - tell `em what you'll tell `em, tell `em, tell `em what you told `em
  
  This book should be essential reading for all service personnel, LEOs, and anyone who deals with traumatic situations. I'd also give it to anyone who has just lost a loved one for whatever reason. All of these people need to understand what they're going through.
  
  The sections on the physiological and psychological reactions to extreme stress put into perspective things many of us have experienced in one manner or another. As stated, knowing that these reactions might take place makes them less scary. I'll bet that many people in lower Manhattan on 09/11 experienced some of these reactions, and most had no idea what was happening to them.
  
  "The Call to Combat" is really a motivator. On Sunday, 07/17/05, the local news headlined the shooting of two NYPD officers by a crazed gunman who had been shooting at statues outside of a church with a shotgun. Though wounded, one of the POs took the shooter down. On Combat immediately came to mind.
  
  Section IV Chapters 1 - 5 are the best and most practical discussion of PTSD I've ever read. In fact, I've already recommended these chapters to a friend who is worried that he might be suffering from PTSD.
  
  The last three chapters (Section IV Chapters 6, 7, & 8) should be read by every American citizen. I liked that you started Chapter 7 with a quote from chaplains. Every young American should have the opportunity to hear a chaplain speak. These men know the ways of the world and they talked straight. This is something missing in many clergy these days.
  
  This hits home to me for several reasons. I grew up in a New York Catholic parish and school where we had a number of priests who had been chaplains in WWII. I guess this was greatly reinforced by four years at a Jesuit High School and ROTC in collage. Since I spent most of my USAR career in Special Ops, I guess something took.
  
  I am really bothered by today's mentality that can't differentiate between the wolves and the sheepdogs. There are so many people who won't call the events of 09/11 an attack .There are so many people who speak adversely of warriors without knowing anything about them. I can't count the times I've contradicted people who stated as fact something about the service they saw in a movie or a TV show.
  
  Your chapter on justice versus vengeance was short but brilliant. When I reflect on my own reaction to the 09/11 attacks, I see a clear example of what you are saying.
  
  That Tuesday was an extraordinarily clear day. We could see the WTC. We saw the planes, and we saw the fires.
  
  My first reaction was anger (the "let's nuke the MFs" - kind). However, that quickly was replaced by calm as I got involved with the evacuation and securing of our building. By the time I got home, I had just one thought in mind - Unleash SOF. President Bush put it best in his address shortly after, "Bring them to justice or bring justice to them".
  
  So much ink was wasted just after the attacks predicting dire consequences if we went to Afghanistan or advocating a massive conventional operation. Instead, we sent our best, and they did the job. As the psalm says, "The just man is a light in the darkness". That's especially true when he's using a SOFLAM to direct a JDAM on al Qaida fighters.
  
  
  
• Understanding combat - mental preparation & fear signals
  By A1XT7H26B8WVNB on 2005-10-17
  Overall a very good book which breaks down the effects of combat into detail. The book is divided in to four chapters:
  
  1: The Physiology of Combat:The anatomy of the Human body in Battle.
  This section gives a great insight into rationalising combat (those working with the law e.g. police, army etc.) the effects of experiencing a tramatic situation and analysing different levels of fear.
  
  2: Perceptual distortions in combat: An Altered State of consciousness.
  Very interesting section of the book, examines some of the reactions a person may experience during combat such as slow motion time. This part of the book is most appealing as anyone can read and take on board the various effects and be better prepared if they are ever in a violent/fearful situation.
  
  3: The call to combat: Where do we get such men?
  This section gives an insight into army/police training how to overcome stress and fear. It can also be applied by the average reader if they engage in any martial arts or other contact sport. Throw's light on the strength and will to live in near death situations and how mental attitude can carry you to surviving a dangerous situation.
  4: The price of combat: After the smoke clears
  This section examines the after effects of combat and is mainly applicable to those returning from war or were in the army. Some still carry the burden of what they saw, did or didnt do etc and gives tips on how to help them re-integrate in 'normal' society.
  
  Overall, the book was an interesting read, a lot of examples used are American (as is the book) and would be great for anyone working in law enforcement/ the army.
  For the average person reading this book most of it is interesting. You can apply the some of the learning and perhaps handle an unexpected situation much better. However, some of the information can sound like Americans blowing there own horn as they are fine examples of warriers and they are principled people (shame about those abusing their authority as seen on the news).
  This book is quite easy to read, last chapter not very relevant if your not in the army but well written and makes you much more aware and sympathetic to understanding combat.
  
  
• good read
  By AG6MB5KJOL9YU on 2006-10-27
  I liked the book, I found too much redundancy and repetition through out the book, I would read a sentence and go hey, didn't I just read that?
  He needs a new editor. I did learn quite a bit, did not find the answers in which I was hoping to find, but still gained insight and knowledge that I did not have before reading the book. I would have like to have read more about the Troop aspect as opposed to firemen and cops.
  
  
• Survival Training: Mind and Body
  By A3M0UIDROE4GGA on 2005-02-24
  Lt.Col. Grossman has written an exemplary work on the realities of combat. This is another must read for those who go " . . . willingly into the heart of darkness, into the toxic, corrosive, destructive realm of combat." Lt. Col. Grossman incorporates many of the old studies with new research to give us a better understanding of what to expect, and what to do, during combat. He presents it in a manner which is easy to comprehend, yet interesting to read.
  
  For more than 25 years I've worked in and studied this field, and reading Lt. Col. Grossman's book has helped to put all those years of experience and training into a better perspective. All new "warriors" should read this book before picking up a weapon and heading out onto the streets or into the bush. They must be prepared mentally, as well as physically, and must ask themselves if they can do this. Only then would they be ready for what they will experience.
  
  
• Grossman Hits Another Home Run
  By AMO5A2PTTLVAH on 2006-08-15
  Anyone who has read "On Killing" knows that Col. Grossman knows his stuff on this topic. "On Combat" is a new look at this topic with many updates and some new ideas, including more original research into the mental processes that take place in the mind of a warrior during combat situations. The authors also look at the mental processes of 'recovery', why recovery sometimes goes wrong, and compare the homecoming of the veterans of the various 20th century wars to look at the results of Vietnam vs the other conflicts.
  
  Combat stress and ways to minimize it are discussed, as well as the etymology of psychological casualties in combat. And as always, the trainer comes out in Col. Grossman throughout the book.
  
  I was able to attend a conference recently and hear Col. Grossman speak. If you ever have the opportunity to go to one of these, DO NOT pass it up. He is one of the best speakers I've ever heard, and he'll completely engage you on this topic. In my opinion, EVERY cop, school administrator, teacher, and other LE personnel in America should be required to attend one of his seminars. If this were to happen, it could almost eliminate the threat of another major terrorist attack in this country.
  
  We need more sheepdogs! Hooah!
  
  
• Poets and gunfights
  By A3GGBGN7X7INP2 on 2004-10-16
  If you never read another book on the psychology and physiology of deadly conflicts, you'll not miss anything if you read this one. Written for practitioners, it contains enough anecdotes to interest the novice, enough references to satisfy a scientist, enough statistics to challenge a mindset, and enough poetry to excite a philosopher. From Sun Tzu and Erasmus to Napoleon and Shakespeare, each concept is accompanied by both the harsh realities and the glorious exhilaration of having survived a deadly encounter and succeeded. For those who have experienced these life and death confrontations, expect to feel your heart race a few times as you remember what it personally felt like. More important than the descriptions are the lessons. Everything from tactical breathing and after action reviews to stress inoculation and PTSD. For the serious student of tactical encounters, or for those who simply wish to understand, this is a must read!
  
  
• Outstanding book to prepare combatants for reality
  By A1GES6AXBYPBLF on 2005-03-23
  "On Combat" is the much anticipated follow up to "On Killing", also by Dave Grossman. This book is an absolute must for any warrior working in the law enforcement or military communities. Grossman destroys the myths commonly associated with the effects of combat and the related stressors. This book should help you mentally prepare yourself to survive, both physically and psychologically, should you be involved in a deadly force encounter involving the loss of life. It should be required reading for all law enforement & military trainers. Anyone in a combatant support group designed to provide mental health assistant to warriors should also read it (several times). It is an outstanding read and extremely interesting throughout. It could very well give the reader a mental edge in combat that could determine who lives and who dies.
  
  I gave a copy of this book to a friend at work whose son was returning from a combat tour in Iraq with the Marine Corps. He and his wife both read it and found it to be extremely helpful.
  
  
• Mr. Grossman has done it again!!!!!!!!!!
  By A2PLK5EOJGD963 on 2005-09-07
  Out of all the training manuals and books that we have to read as Marines, this book has more facts and "what to expect" in a combat environment than any of them I have read. Just this past Feb/March, I returned home from Fallujah, Iraq where I was with RCT-1. We killed 2500 terrorists and lost 115 Marines in the 7 months I was there. Knowing everything I learned from that experience, I could not give even half the information he has provided in this book. I have read all of Mr. Grossman's book and watched all of his tapes, I CANNOT say enough great things about them. They are packed with information and knowledge that ALL law enforcement, military, security personnel, and parents should read!!! Great Book!!!!!
  
  
• On Combat
  By A5F2BY4MMACWB on 2006-03-22
  This book was well written and presented. My husband is in Iraq right now and enjoyed reading it in between missions. He has a better idea of how to deal with the world around him and the soldiers that he is leading. I recomment it to anyone who is in the military and deployed.
  
  
• A10A
  By A18QAOOLD01WKB on 2006-09-30
  I am a Sniper in a special STRIKE team in the British Army on my second tour of Iraq. This book is one of the best books I have had the privilege to read. It gave me the tools I needed to go from shooting at great distances under pressure and then picking up my hart-rate to go into a hostile house to arrest the target. It has done more than just that, it has helped me understand who I am and why I am.
  
  
• BINGO
  By A1OI0JSE4Z8I9S on 2007-03-08
  This book was recommended to me by a fellow police officer after I was involved in a shooting. I did not read it until a month after my incident. Everything in the book seem to relate to what I was going through. I then realized what I was going through was normal, and that I was going to be alright. This book truely helped me get over a difficult time in my life.
  
  
• Must have for those that may fight
  By A11M4DJ64Y4H1 on 2005-02-21
  Its seldom these days that I learn new things from the written word, but this book is a BIG exception. It has me re-evaluating everything I do in training and on the streets. It doesnt matter if you are a soldier, a cop, or an armed citizen, you WILL take several (if not many things) with you after reading Grossman's newest work.
  
  
• On Combat
  By A23FTNJFWMDRI0 on 2005-04-20
  As a police officer and firearms Instructor this is the best book on what to expect critical incidents that I have ever read.
  
  I strongly urge any one who might be engaging the forces of evil on a personal level to get this book and read it.
  
  When I read it I read it from cover to cover and then started reading it again this time with a high lighter and I will be using it in training my officers including my SWAT officers.
  
  
• Security Consultant
  By A12EGV286BQ9TS on 2005-11-29
  While Grossman is very subjective in his books and public speaking, his message remains true. Grossman is the best public speaker in the safety industry and all teachers, school administrators, parents and other folks with a heartbeat would be well advised to pay heed to his message. I wholeheartedly recommend Grossman and his books.
  
  I use Grossman's material in much of my consulting and training of wealthy persons in Jackson Hole and find that when people give his information some attention they soon agree with him. On Combat is not quite as good as On Killing, and neither can compare with seeing Mr. Grossman in person!
  
  Shepard Humphries
  Jackson Hole Security Consultant / Executive Protection
  The Service Brokerage of Jackson Hole
  www.ServiceBrokerageofJH.com
  
  
  
• "Hooah" ... Davo!!
  By A1TBYA9SVJV3E5 on 2006-04-27
  I just want to write and let everyone know 'On Combat' is an awesome book, not only for elite military and law enforcement, but for dispatchers as well, or anyone who has a spouse in the military or law enforcement. 'On Killing" and Daves sequel 'On Combat' are both awesome books that gives the reader a good insight to how the body [both mentally and physically] reacts to being in the line of fire. Both books are also good books for the dispatchers behind the radio to read. I speak from experience on the police dispatcher angle. It really helps put things in perspective, to know what my officer's are dealing with helps me behind the radio and makes sure they get home safely to their families. It also helps put into perspective the feelings that you go through when you work a major incident, or even one that isn't major but plays in your mind, or as Dave describes it as the 'puppy rearing it's ugly head trying to get in the screen door'. Both books help with this and goes through the feelings you might be going through, and puts it in perspective.
  
  Dave is a great person, a very enthusiastic speaker who selflessly gives of himself and his time to reach out to people world-wide. He trains and teaches them, and prepares them for that time when the wolf comes knocking at the sheeps door, which is when the sheepdogs, our 'Warriors' who answer the call who respond bravely to the call for help and are there to protect the flock!!
  
  I am writing this in hopes it might help, to write what's in the book would be giving away the true meat of the matter!! Both books are great and highly recommend them as a must read!!
  
  Hooah...And may all the "WARRIORS" be watched over and guarded, those abroad who are our swords as well as the "WARRIORS" at home who are our shields!!
  
  "Sabrhawke"
  
  
• Outstanding
  By AL28UOLCW9UHQ on 2004-11-01
  I just finished reading On Combat by Dave Grossman and Loren Christensen and in a word: Wow!
  
  I read Grossman's On Killing years ago and thought it was fantastic, but On Combat has taken another giant leap forward in presenting new, fresh info on what happens to the mind and body in combat, whether the fighter is a troop in the service, a cop on the beat and even innocents caught in the middle of something like the Columbine school shooting. There's something for everyone in it.
  
  I've been a fan of Loren Christensen's writing for years in magazines and books and it's fantastic that he and Grossman have teamed together. It makes for a hell of a team!
  
  Get this book here on Amazon or get an autographed copy on Loren Christensen's web site - just get a copy.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• The best book on combat
  By A24B2HPBG1V2X9 on 2004-11-20
  This was without a doubt the best book I've read on what happens to the mind and body in conbat. There is not a dry moment in this read. Every page is filled with solid information that will help cops, soldiers, and loved ones of those serving.
  
  These authors know their stuff. I bought two other copies as gifts.
  
  Thanks to Grossman and Christensen. I've read their other books and this one is at the top of the pile.
  
  Sergerant C. Stone
  
  
  
• Future Police Officer
  By A3STX5MDHQUXKT on 2006-03-20
  I learned about this book from an Asst. Chief of Police with whom I recently interviewed. It was the most life-focusing book I've ever read. Although I'm not currently a police officer, I'm in the process of leaving Corporate America to become one.
  
  "On Combat" is a must-read for a law enforcement and military personnel as well as anyone who is a protector including teachers, coaches, and parents. It will give you a better understanding of what the body and mind are doing during high stress situations whether you're taking a test, running for a touchdown, or fighting for your life.
  
  One thing in particular this book did was cause me to look back on stressful situations of the past. There were some things that happened while I was in the military that I could never wrap my head around. I never understood some of my responses when I had so much training. Col. Grossman's explanations helped me understand the past so I'll be better prepared for things in the future. I would give "On Combat" twenty stars if I could.
  
  
• Unique perspective
  By A1XU2VGHMZEHG4 on 2006-07-23
  Most of the books I have read on combat are from the perspective of military commanders or political leaders. This is one of the rare books that looks at it from the individual perspective and more specifically, how the stress of combat affects the individual.
  
  This book is the source of "On Sheep, Wolves and Sheepdogs", which has become a popular item of discussion among blogs for the "sheepdog" types.
  
  Not light reading, but if combined with Grossman's other book, "On Killing", will give you a wealth of information about what happens to the good guy during and after a lethal force encounter. If you are a soldier/police/fireman or have a loved one who is, this information can be invaluable.
  
  
• " On Combat" is a must read for all warriors.
  By A1MUD979BTTFMO on 2004-10-26
  I have just finished reading "On Combat" and I want to say thank you for an excellent book and information too valuable to calculate on the meaning of living the life of a warrior. Both my son ( a Police Officer ) and myself ( a civilian CCW holder and student at Tactical Defense Institute) were privileged to have attended your lecture " The Bulletproof Mind". "On Combat" compliments that training very well.
  
  It is important that the book relate to real life. In that line, within the book I noted two sections that related directly to events in my area, the Cincinnati - Dayton Metropolis.
  
  On Page 143 in the section "The Will to Kill;Daunting and Deterring Your Opponent" I recognized the recount of the shooting of Officer Mary Beall of the Dayton, Ohio Police Department on 5/15/00. I was at the Tactical Defense Institute one week after this shooting training with several Police Officers and the anger at her shooting was palpable. Officer Beall passed away recently from complications resulting from her injuries. Her death can only be titled "She didn't have to die".
  
  Contrast this with another Police Officer shooting in Cincinnati on 2/3/98. Officer Katy Conway of the Cincinnati Police Department was shot 4 times with a .357 magnum revolver, all below the vest. The suspect shoved her to the passenger side of the car, broken pelvis and all, and began driving away with the cruiser. Officer Conway managed to get her service weapon out and end the suspects attack with two shots to the head. I recently saw part of a video interview with Officer Conway. Her comment was "Someone was going to die that night and it wasn't going to be me." Officer Conway is now retired from the Police Department due to her injuries.
  
  Secondly, on page 40 of your book, you talk about the startle reflex. I believe that this applies to the shooting of a black suspect on 4/8/2001 by a Cincinnati Police Officer. The Officer was chasing the suspect, wanted on 14 non - felony warrants, with his weapon out. The suspect went one way around a building and the Officer went the other way. The suspect then jumped down off of a retaining wall and I believe, startled the Officer, who fired his weapon one time, killing the suspect. Although not published, I believe that the shot fired by the Officer was due to the startle reflex when suddenly confronted by the suspect. The Officer left the Cincinnati Police Department and now works on the Evendale Police Department.
  
  If you are a Police Officer, a holder of a concealed carry license, or in the military, you owe it to yourself to absorb the information in this book.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• On Combat
  By A1XIFWGHPQ7U5N on 2005-09-30
  Excellent book, easy reading. This book is a must read for anybody who may have to face someone in a combat situation, either Law Enforcement or military.
  
  
• Superb
  By A20RWRMXTIBGGA on 2006-01-09
  As a two time veteran of Iraq and an Army officer, I am very familiar with LTC Grossman's work. On Combat is a continuation of the phenomenal efforts set forth in On Killing and The Bulletproof Mind. Anyone directly involved in combat or other routinely tramautic events should have to read this book before they're allowed back on the job. LTC Grossman does right by warriors everywhere by giving so much to our community.
  
  
• Foundation to Psychological Survival in the 21st Century
  By ASKQEY7LLW1MB on 2006-07-22
  A "warrior" friend recently attended one of Lt. Colonel Dave Grossman's seminars. He summarized all that he learned from Lt. Colonel Grossman in just a day long seminar. I was impressed and figured that I could get a good sense of what Dave Grossman had to offer in his books (as I did not locate any upcoming seminars in my area).
  
  I opted to pick up ON COMBAT first rather than ON KILLING (though I have since purchased ON KILLING, but have not yet read it) as COMBAT was a more recent release. The information that I gained from ON COMBAT is priceless. I cannot help but share tidbits of information from COMBAT with my colleagues on a regular basis.
  
  Much of the information contained in ON COMBAT is rarely shared with individuals entering law enforcement. I truly hope that in order to keep up with the "bad guys" who infect some of our streets, training administrators of today's LEOs have begun integrating much of the topics discussed in ON COMBAT into their academies/training programs.
  
  This book is a must read for anyone with the "warrior" attitude/spirit/calling. However, this book will serve anyone well regardless of their occupation or life calling. Dave Grossman dispels many of the myths that Hollywood loves to exploit for high profits. Sadly, many of the things the we know and/or believe about fighting and killing come from Hollywood. Anyone who reads this book will become much wiser for it.
  
  This book truly enhances my personal toolbox for psychological street survival. Buy it, read it, then reread it over and over again.
  
  
• On Combat
  By A1P1YQNXNLQ62C on 2006-08-18
  I have read two books written by this author. Both are excelent and tells it like it is. Very clear to understand, explains in detail some of the emotions I experienced. Wish I would have known about this before.
  
  
• A Must Read Book to understand the Warrior Mind-Set.
  By A26HU36XZJ73VC on 2004-12-25
  Those who are into the training of military, law enforcement and related warrior professions know the contributions Lt. Col. Dave Grossman and Loren W. Christensen have made in researching warriorship. This is the very best book on "the psychology and physiology of deadly conflict in war and peace." This fantastic text is well researched and full of so much valuable information that this review cannot do it justice. These are not two armchair authors who have never felt the sting of combat. Indeed, they clearly have the real life experiences combined with scholarly research skills to produce a book that is a must read for every law enforcement officer, military personel and serious martial artists. This book has 395 pages of information and facts that will amaze and educate you on the way warriors live their lives. This books is broken down into four sections: "The Physiology of Combat: The Anatomy of the Human Body in Battle. Perceptual Distortions in Combat: An Altered State of Consciousness. The Call to Combat: Where Do We Get Such Men? The Price of Combat: After the Smoke Clears. In conclusion, if you desire to really understand the nature of the warrior and why they are essential within a free society, get this book. You will understand why the meek and the weak in a society would perish without the warrior's protection. You have to decide whether you are a sheep, a wolf or a sheep dog. Read this book and discover how they relate to our role in society. END
  
  
• MUST read!
  By A2FHLNE9I66VGO on 2005-10-23
  This is an excellent book for law enforcement personnel! It is, in fact, required reading for our Academy staff.
  
  

• On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society
• Sharpening the Warriors Edge: The Psychology & Science of Training
• LEADERSHIP AND TRAINING FOR THE FIGHT: A FEW THOUGHTS ON LEADERSHIP AND TRAINING FROM A FORMER SPECIAL OPERATIONS SOLDIER
• The Gift of Fear
• Bulletproof: The Making of an Invincible Mind