I joined the military after 9/11 but I think would have joined even if the tragedy never occurred. I always felt the need and desire to serve so I certainly identify, to an extent, with the SEALs in this story. Since I am in the military, the specter of Usama bin Laden (UBL) always lingered over us and his actions have impacted my life immensely. I vividly remember the day that he was killed. Many of my friends celebrated. Some celebrated by partying, some had extravagant meals, some smoked fancy cigars, and others opened long saved bottles of expensive whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches. I certainly understood their excitement as UBL played such a significant role in their lives. I did not celebrate in “the most American way possible” like many of my friends. I do not blame them for their excitement but I could not bring myself to celebrate the death of a person, even UBL. Even writing about it now seems odd. It seems that I should want to be excited or happy or something but I’m not. I would not go so far to say that I would rather UBL still be alive; it just does not bring me joy.
I chose to read No Easy Day because I found the subject matter irresistible. I read No Easy Day because I wanted to read the best account of the mission that did kill UBL. I wanted to know what happened from the primary source. I expect that liberties were taken to improve the story and I found it thoroughly interesting and perhaps captivating at times. I do not think that everyone would enjoy this book. I would recommend it to those who have served in the military or find the military extremely fascinating. If that isn’t you, then skip No Easy Day.