The Fifth Act

Viac o knihe

A powerful eyewitness account of the American collapse in Afghanistan, its desperate endgame, and the war's legacy. Elliot Ackerman, a former military officer, was deeply marked by his experiences in Afghanistan and Iraq. As the Taliban advanced on Kabul in August 2021, he was drawn back into the conflict as Afghan nationals who had supported the U.S. military faced brutal reprisals and sought to escape. The U.S. government's evacuation efforts proved disastrous, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Ackerman, alongside journalists and veterans, initiated an impromptu mission to negotiate with Taliban and American forces to secure the safe evacuation of hundreds. This effort provided a measure of redemption and a chance for Ackerman to reconcile his past with his present. The narrative captures the weight of twenty years of war during a critical week at its end, intertwining personal history with the broader context of the conflict that began after 9/11. It presents a nuanced view of the war's trajectory, focusing on the remarkable individuals—both American and Afghan—who fought with courage and dedication. Ackerman's storytelling balances the complex realities of the post-9/11 wars, offering readers insights into the experiences and sacrifices of combatants. This account serves as a first draft of history, resonating with timeless significance.