“The leadership lessons learned in combat apply here at home: take care of the people to your left and to your right. You are the frontlines—no matter where or how you serve.”

It began as a personal memoir for her son. Reflecting one day on her ten years of post 9/11 military service, Marjorie K. Eastman wanted to capture the lessons and inspiration she’d learned serving beside men and women who represent the very best of what it means to be American: dedication to a job well done, selflessness, character, and a belief that one person can make a difference. And these servicemen and women represent just 1 percent of the American public.

Eastman identifies this group as the Frontline Generation and notes it is an untapped reservoir of leaders—now back in our communities—who have been strengthened by the unique difficulties of post 9/11 service.

The compelling journey of Eastman’s time in uniform culminates in her final assignment, when she was responsible for the lives of over 100 troops—men and women—scattered throughout Eastern Afghanistan. Her first-person account of that time is a moving story from personal commitment to the conviction that service—no matter where or how—is the best path to success. She offers lessons on life, leadership, service, and the way for every person to find a role in them.

Those stories are here. And Eastman’s journal entries further reveal frustrations, inspiration, joy, heartbreak, laughter, purpose, resolve, and the remarkable ways service members came together to solve problems and break boundaries well beyond the heartbreaking day of 9/11. She defines the legacy her Frontline Generation leaves on this country, and encourages readers to think about who they want to be, how they can make a difference, how they can make their lives count. Service is the key.

The Frontline Generation abounds with wisdom, compassion, and humor.

Marjorie K Eastman

Books