In "The Only Thing Worth Dying For," Eric Blehm explores the experiences of eleven Green Berets tasked with a mission in Afghanistan. The narrative reflects their challenges as they navigate the complexities of war, emphasizing the profound impact of their actions on the region. The book portrays how these soldiers forged relationships with local communities while facing the realities of a protracted conflict that seemed inevitable.
Cormac McCarthy's quote, "War was always here. Before man was, war waited for him," resonates with the themes of the book, suggesting that conflict is an intrinsic part of human existence. Blehm illustrates how these soldiers embraced their roles as they grappled with the nature of war itself, revealing the emotional and ethical dimensions of their duty in a land where violence has deep historical roots.