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Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In 185 Days: The Diary of a Combat Carpenter in Iraq, S. A. McManus chronicles his deployment experiences from preparation in Sydney to life in Baghdad, and after. He recounts his arrival at Camp Sather and the difficulty of military operations while under the constant threat of mortar attacks. As violence escalates, McManus writes about the implementation of a "Deception Plan" to protect personnel. He documents the physical and emotional toll of extended labor, the camaraderie among soldiers, and moments of relief, such as receiving care packages. McManus's journal entries show readers the impact of increased attacks, particularly around significant dates like Easter and ANZAC Day, which complicates morale and safety. Upon returning to Australia, McManus looks back on the really hard times with readjustment and potential PTSD, leaning into the lasting effects of his military service, and those of others.
S. A. McManus's 185 Days is an eye-opening memoir that provides an unflinching look at life in a combat zone. McManus’s writing effectively captures the harsh realities of military life in Iraq, and a little less so in Kuwait, detailing the stifling heat of the bunkers, the constant threat of mortar attacks, and the emotional toll of such an environment. It's really incredible. There is one supremely ironic moment McManus shares that, while receiving a psychological evaluation, a mortar explosion sends the psychiatrist into a panic but McManus remains composed. Due to its format, the writing is easygoing and conversational, even when what is being discussed is hard and heavy. There's a lot for a reader to unpack after finishing, but it is mild in comparison to what millions of others must. McManus’s account is a powerful testament to resilience, and I am grateful for both this book and his service. Very highly recommended.
