David H. Hackworth

About the author

Colonel David H. Hackworth (1930-2005) stands as one of America's most decorated and controversial military officers. A career soldier who served from the Korean War through Vietnam, Hackworth commanded units at every level from platoon to battalion.

His military expertise was forged through combat experience rather than traditional academic channels, culminating in his receipt of numerous decorations including the Distinguished Service Cross and Purple Heart. Prior to "About Face," Hackworth had established himself as a military critic through journalism and consulting work, particularly his outspoken criticism of Pentagon policies during the Vietnam era. His transition from decorated soldier to military reformer positioned him uniquely to critique the institutional failures he witnessed firsthand.