Stewart “ST” Blackwell
Author
Stewart “ST” Blackwell
Enlisting in the Marine Corps infantry in 2007, ST deployed six times, including a combat tour to Marjah, Afghanistan, a rapid response mission to Sana’a, Yemen, Guantanamo Bay, and multiple Marine Expeditionary Units. After returning to civilian life, ST sought out contract employment overseas at the US Embassy and international airport in Kabul, Afghanistan until December of 2020.
In his debut book, Savages: Infantry Culture in the Global War on Terror, Stewart “ST” Blackwell seeks to elevate the understanding of the armed forces for readers by presenting an alternative view based on his years of experience and extensive research in a brutal and visceral manner. ST starts at the beginning and defines the infantry as its own culture, complete with its own value system that directly contributes to the success of the force where it matters most- the battlefield. Describing key events in training and in Afghanistan, he immerses the reader in a vastly different society that values hardship, suffering, and deep, life-altering personal development over comfort and self-preservation. Additionally, he brings to light the monumental differences between the Grunts and everyone else, and how the two groups were employed throughout the war, which contrasts starkly with how many civilians view them. At its conclusion ST presents the legacy of the small unit warrior from his own experience in hope that it will help aid in understanding this vibrant and separate culture for future generations.
ST lives in Mississippi with his wife and two sons. His hope is that his book provides readers with an enlightened view of today’s warriors fighting to build a better world for generations to come.
Read More About ST and His New Book in The DeSoto Times-Tribune
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Savages: Infantry Culture in the Global War on Terror, has received clearance for public release from the DoD.
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Bodell –
Savages: Infantry Culture in the Global War on Terror by @stblackwell is what it promises to be. Blackwell is a fellow Marjah Marine and GWOT veteran. However, his deployment to Marjah is only a small component of Savages. The book covers most of his military service from his decision to enlist to when it came time to take off the uniform.
Savages is less about war and combat and more about the Espirit de Corps formed among men in spartan and austere times, the culture and mindset that is expected of warriors and how not everyone naturally fits into those expectations.
Savages is rife with examples of leadership and mentorship styles and practices. Both positive and negative examples are abound in these pages.
One of the key takeaways I got from the book, which is something I believe very strongly, in, is that military service, especially the hard and gritty kind, will leave you with a sense of self-confidence and belief in yourself that cannot be taken away.
Blackwell doesn’t tell, but rather shows how the infantry instills that self-confidence through shared and determined effort.
Eli –
Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2024
ST Blackwell gives an insight few are rarely willing to talk about. His knowledge, experience, and writing ability, educate the reader. Highly recommend to everyone to ensure the preservation of the infantry culture.
Amazon Reviewer –
Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2024
I got this book two days ago and I just finished tonight. What Blackwell was able to articulate regarding the ethos of the infantry, his perceptions, trials and tribulations is amazing. It’s not a book about glorifying one’s self, rather self reflection. He doesn’t gloat about being the best marine infantryman to ever walk the earth, he talks about how he could have improved, the pride he takes in teaching others and the feelings that many vets go through.
I truly appreciate what you’ve written. I’m glad I was apart of the journey that you have embarked on and proud to say that I know you.
Congrats on your book!
-Guam
Chris –
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2024
From the very beginning, it grasps the readers attention. The details the author chose to elaborate on are unique to any other book I’ve ever read written by an Infantry Marine. Things I’ve personally thought and believed or new concepts I’ve never considered. So far i think it does a great job separating the infantry culture from the rest and the walk of life it is rather than just a job. I think this is an outstanding book for anyone to read. Those who have never been in the armed forces, to gain a perspective of the Marine Corps infantry, those looking to serve, and those who have. There are do details hidden and things that need to be heard. Always Forward
Aaron S. –
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2023
Very insightful and interesting view of the War on Terror as told by a fighter. Reading this with a desire to understand will provide valuable insight into today’s warriors and the requirements that have always been necessary to “train to persevere” under harsh and demanding conditions.
Carl –
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2024
This book pulls back the curtains and allows insight to the average American that I haven’t read or seen portrayed in film. You represented us incredibly well, Blackwell. Zach would be proud. Semper Fidelis
March or Die
Mark –
Reviewed in the United States on January 8, 2024
In the first couple of pages St Blackwell gives a great perspective on what is like to transition from being a warrior and going into corporate America. Although it is written from his perspective, it gives examples that all warriors can relate to, in one way or another. Great read so far.