Hundreds of audiobooks under $8.
Kindle Unlimited
Unlimited reading. Over 4 million titles. Learn more
Read for Free
OR
$8.99

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Sold by Amazon.com Services LLC.

Audiobook Price: $17.46

Save: $9.97 (57%)

Read with our free app
You've subscribed to ! We will preorder your items within 24 hours of when they become available. When new books are released, we'll charge your default payment method for the lowest price available during the pre-order period.
Update your device or payment method, cancel individual pre-orders or your subscription at
Your Memberships & Subscriptions
Kindle app logo image

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

QR code to download the Kindle App

Follow the author

Thad Forester
Follow
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.

My Brother in Arms: The Exceptional Life of Mark Andrew Forester, United States Air Force Combat Controller Kindle Edition

by Thad Forester (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.7 out of 5 stars 299 ratings
On September 29, 2010 Mark Forester was killed in action while fighting terrorists in Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan. His heroic legacy of being shot down while preparing to rescue a fallen teammate began long before this tragic day.

An Apache aviator said of Mark's final battle: ..."I have never witnessed such an act of heroism in my three years of fighting in combat. I have over 2,700 hours total time with 1,500 hours of combat time in both Iraq and Afghanistan...JAG 28 continued to advance on the enemy while taking intense enemy fire, and continuously fired his weapon in an attempt to get to his fallen teammate and destroy the enemy."

Mark chose to enlist in the Air Force as a Special Operations Combat Controller after he received his Bachelor’s degree from The University of Alabama. Because of his above average grades and near-photographic memory, his Business Finance degree would have done him well. But, he felt a higher calling; one that put him between us and the enemies bent on our destruction.

Even though he had pledged that freedom must be preserved, his greatest desire was to marry the right girl and have a family—Mark never got that chance. Instead he selflessly gave his life for the country he loved.

Since Mark’s death, his family’s eyes and hearts have been opened to multiple examples of selflessness and patriotism by meeting his teammates and leaders in the military. The family has witnessed first-hand the ability for them to turn off their stern, professional personae and turn on compassion, love, support and acceptance. The author feels a strong desire to Honor our Heroes. This book highlights one hero, SrA Mark A. Forester, and also helps recognize many other men and women who volunteer to fight for our freedom.

My Brother in Arms is not a memorial in print, but a biography for continuing Mark’s legacy of perseverance, determination and accomplishing our missions on earth. We each have different missions, but what’s important is for us to recognize ours and work to accomplish it. In the end, don’t we all want to go out while moving forward?
Previous slide of product details
  1. Print length
    274 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publication date
    January 7, 2014
  4. File size
    8.7 MB
  5. Page Flip
    Enabled
  6. Word Wise
    Enabled
  7. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
Next slide of product details
Amazon Book Sale.
Hundreds of audiobooks under $8. Shop now.

Editorial Reviews

From Kirkus Reviews

"The telling is one only a brother could achieve. Thad’s collaboration with wordsmith Glencoe is seamless in style, tone, and clarity throughout as they effectively weave small personal experiences into a coherent tapestry of Mark’s character. The book excels at showing how combat deaths affect families, friends, and fellow service personnel and how such losses can inspire others." - Kirkus Reviews

Review

"The telling is one only a brother could achieve. Thad's collaboration with wordsmith Glencoe is seamless in style, tone, and clarity throughout as they effectively weave small personal experiences into a coherent tapestry of Mark's character. The book excels at showing how combat deaths affect families, friends, and fellow service personnel and how such losses can inspire others." - Kirkus Reviews

"My Brother In Arms is an intimate and moving portrayal of what a serviceman gives and what his family loses. And isn't it both the former, and how the family deals with the latter, which makes the nation what it is?" - Military Writers Society of America
"Be Like Mark! 'My Brother in Arms', is a truly touching and inspirational look into the life of an American Hero. This book is written in such a way that the reader gets a very personal look into some of the effects Mark had on the people he met during his life, his heroism on the battle field, and his total commitment to his values. I am a member of the US Army Special Forces and currently working as an ROTC Instructor; training the future leaders of the Army. I am adding this book to my recommended reading list for my Cadets, as an example of the type of warrior, leader, selfless servant, and man they should strive to emulate." - Anonymous Special Forces Captain

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00FDWCIGE
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Triumph Press; 1st edition (January 7, 2014)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 7, 2014
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 8.7 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 274 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 out of 5 stars 299 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Thad Forester

Thad Forester

Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

Thad Forester was born and raised in Haleyville, AL to Ray and Pat Forester. He is the fourth of five children. "My Brother in Arms" is his first and only book. When his younger brother Mark was KIA in Afghanistan in 2010 he felt a burning desire to first and foremost, preserve his legacy for his family. Secondly, he wanted to share Mark's example of commitment, integrity and patriotism with the world. For these reasons he wrote "My Brother in Arms: The Exceptional Life of Mark Andrew Forester, United States Air Force Combat Controller".

"My Brother in Arms" was a #1 Amazon Best Seller in September 2013 for Kindle free downloads in three categories: Personal Growth and Inspiration, Military and Spies, and Military.

Thad is married with three sons. He graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor's degree in Production and Operations Management. His greatest desire is to have plenty of land for his children to roam and explore.

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
299 global ratings

Review this product

Share your thoughts with other customers
Write a customer review

Customers say

Customers find this book to be a true-to-life memoir that takes them on an emotional journey and inspires them to be better versions of themselves. Moreover, the writing is exceptionally well-crafted, and one customer notes it provides amazing insight into what combat controllers do. Additionally, the book receives positive feedback for its humor and appearance. However, one customer mentions it has a limited appeal.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more

58 customers mention "Story quality"58 positive0 negative

Customers praise this true-to-life memoir, describing it as one of the most amazing biographies they've read.

"...of Mark A Forester described by those who knew him as principled, kind, gentle, easy-going, fun, humorous friend, to an Elite Military Air Force..." Read more

"...This book tells his life story...." Read more

"...Amazingly kept my interest until the last chapter. In honestly I feel proud of this family for raising a son with such integrity...." Read more

"...This is a very exceptional read that allows you to feel the love compassion and sorrow that this family shared and also learn the journey of a young..." Read more

21 customers mention "Emotional content"21 positive0 negative

Customers find the book emotionally engaging, describing it as a heartfelt eulogy that inspires readers to be better versions of themselves.

"A rare, personal and authoritative glimpse into one of the many, many lives that was willingly sacrificed to pay the the Price of Freedom...." Read more

"...This is a very exceptional read that allows you to feel the love compassion and sorrow that this family shared and also learn the journey of a young..." Read more

"...The author, Thad, has successfully and lovingly created a wonderful tribute to his little brother...." Read more

"...veteran or just need to be lifted up by the story of an exceptionally motivated, heroic and professional member of America's Armed Forces you will..." Read more

8 customers mention "Insight"8 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's insights, with one customer highlighting its detailed portrayal of combat controller work, while another notes how it provides different perspectives on the author's life.

"...transformation of Mark A Forester described by those who knew him as principled, kind, gentle, easy-going, fun, humorous friend, to an Elite..." Read more

"...I love how it highlights his entire life, his principles, his faith, and his combat excellence...." Read more

"...'s have grown up with great morals, great work ethics and visions as individual's we can only pray for to be bestowed inside each one of our hearts...." Read more

"...It is about different perspectives of his life & legacy." Read more

8 customers mention "Writing quality"8 positive0 negative

Customers find the book exceptionally well-written, with one customer noting its thoughtful approach and another mentioning the absence of bad language.

"...It was nice to sit down and read a book with no bad language, which is rare...." Read more

"Very good book and well written. Different perspective of a veteran." Read more

"...I cried, and some times I laughed. It was a well writen book that was hard to put down... I am sorry for the loss of such a brave man who served..." Read more

"...An exceptionally written, fact based story of a true American hero." Read more

4 customers mention "Memory"4 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate how the book serves as a lasting tribute to Mark's life, with one customer noting how it keeps his memory alive.

"...What a beautiful and lasting tribute this is to a defender of truth who so richly deserves our admiration and praise...." Read more

"There are no words for how great this book was! The life of Mark was outstanding...." Read more

"This is an amazing book that keeps the memory of Mark alive. He truly is an American hero who gave his life for our country." Read more

"Awesome life out into type..." Read more

3 customers mention "Humor"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book humorous.

"...those who knew him as principled, kind, gentle, easy-going, fun, humorous friend, to an Elite Military Air Force Combat Controller who believed he..." Read more

"This book had me laughing one minute and crying the next. Totally loved this book." Read more

"Heroic, godly, unselfish, and humorous man..." Read more

3 customers mention "Look"3 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the look of the book.

"...What a beautiful and lasting tribute this is to a defender of truth who so richly deserves our admiration and praise...." Read more

"...What a beautiful and lasting tribute this is to a defender of truth who so richly deserves our admiration and praise...." Read more

"It is amazing look at the life of America's exceptional military members. Some people are made for this life, most aren't." Read more

3 customers mention "Appeal"0 positive3 negative

Customers find the book has limited appeal, with one mentioning it gets boring and another noting it can be redundant at times.

"Good read but a bit redundant at times. A better editor should have tightened this one up." Read more

"...Got very boring and I had to quit" Read more

"This is very personal therefore has a limited appeal. Sounds like a marvelous young man cut down in his prime." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • RenegadeMayhem
    5.0 out of 5 stars Mark Forester - A True American Hero
    Reviewed in the United States on September 30, 2013
    Verified Purchase
    A rare, personal and authoritative glimpse into one of the many, many lives that was willingly sacrificed to pay the the Price of Freedom.

    Mark Forester's story, as told by his brother Thad, illustrates the phenomenal transformation of Mark A Forester described by those who knew him as principled, kind, gentle, easy-going, fun, humorous friend, to an Elite Military Air Force Combat Controller who believed he was placed on the earth to "kill terrorists". My Brother in Arms allows readers to know Mark, understand his background, history, motives, appreciate the relationships of those who loved him, illustrate his skill & bravery as a warrior, as well as his fateful last battle which took place on Sept 29, 2010.

    Gone but not forgotten, Mark A Forester's story is bound to become a classic tale of patriotism, honor, sacrifice, love of nation and triumph.

    You will be a better person for knowing who Mark was and therefore it is a must read!
    14 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • M. Christiansen
    5.0 out of 5 stars Heroic, godly, unselfish, and humorous man
    Reviewed in the United States on January 19, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    I watched "Coming Home" on Lifetime, and discovered about Mark Forester, and LDS. Next thing I know I was researching for "Mark Forester" on Google to find more info about his foundation which was recent started. I was thrilled to hear about the book which would be release soon, I count the days when it would be released and I would buy the book! I didn't read the book right away when it come in the package I ordered from Amazon. I was uneasy to start read about someone's death, while dealing with my sister's illness which hit again unexpectedly, and she has short time to live. I really want to read that book! I would visit the "The Mark Forester Foundation" website, and on FB occasionally. After hear the good news for my sister, that she would may live more longer than we thought, and hopefully that they would accept her to be on the wait list for new transplants. I pick up the book to read, I couldn't put it down! I smiled, laughed, and cried. I agreed with that book! Mark's childhood life, and mine are very simple same, and love Jesus! And Keen footwear!

    I highly recommended this book to read!
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Jack Hurlbut
    5.0 out of 5 stars Pure American Story that you cannot put down!
    Reviewed in the United States on October 9, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    ‘My Brother In Arms’ depicts the life of a young man that embodies all that an American boy should have and experience. Mark Forester grew up in a loving home where he learned about God and to love and keep Him first. In that life however, Mark Forester pursued excellence. He played hard, hunted hard, wrestled with brothers hard and studied hard. He was able to live a life in his few short years that others only dream about. Mark chased every dream, yet lived for his Lord every step of the way. In this book, Thad Forester has found a way to allow us not only into his little brothers life but that of his family. There is no way we as readers can ever understand how much grief they had or continue to live with. I hope though, that the Forester family has peace knowing that it took Mark far less time than the rest of us to show God that he was worthy of a Heavenly Home. Mark Forester stood for his family. Stood for his country, losing his life in the process. But he fought the good fight and ran the good race and now lives in Heaven with his Savior. There are few other books that capture the heart and spirit of the all American boy.
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Patricia Forester
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic book about an American Hero
    Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This is such an amazing book highlighting Mark Forester, and American hero. I love how it highlights his entire life, his principles, his faith, and his combat excellence. Makes me feel proud to be an American in a world where that is becoming increasingly rare.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • L. D. Weimer
    4.0 out of 5 stars Extraordinary CCT
    Reviewed in the United States on January 7, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    How many Americans even know what a Special Forces CCT is? I didn't until my nephew became one. SHortly before his second deployment to Afghanistan, he recommended this book about Mark Forester, a CCT killed in action in Afghanistan. Mark was an extraordinary man, even among highly trained special forces guys. This book tells his life story.

    While the passion and love which motivated it's creation, and the enormity of the work that went into it, are clear, It would have benefited from additional editing.
    4 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Susandvgaines
    5.0 out of 5 stars My Brother in Arms
    Reviewed in the United States on February 15, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    All I can say is, it was absolutely worth my time. I have heard of so many fallen soldiers but this was written with the upmost honor one could bestow on his own brother. Amazingly kept my interest until the last chapter. In honestly I feel proud of this family for raising a son with such integrity. I also purchased a copy for my father so he could read. Dad was amazed at the Mormon faith in raising children with such wisdom for the word of God. He said if he had to raise children all over again he would seriously think about raising them as Mormon's. He raised me and my three other siblings. We have been members of a Pentecostal church all our lives. These children of Forester's have grown up with great morals, great work ethics and visions as individual's we can only pray for to be bestowed inside each one of our hearts. Loved this true story! I heard about it from a business man and will definately thank him for sharing!
    5 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Ruby Clingerman
    5.0 out of 5 stars This story will stay with you long after the end.
    Reviewed in the United States on January 16, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    An emotional read that draws you in deeply
    And keeps you turning the pages to the very end
    Not only do you learn what a true hero is but it also takes you on an emotional journey with All that knew and loved Mark and leaves you feeling as if you were a part of their world from the very beginning. This is a very exceptional read that allows you to feel the love compassion and sorrow that this family shared and also learn the journey of a young man that served God and country to the end.
    It also made me think deeply on the men and women in my family that served and even those that didn’t that were touched by those who did.
    Thank you Mark for your service and God be with those you left behind.
    Truly deserves more than 5 stars.
    Thank you to all who serve or have served.
    May those of us you protect never take a moment of freedom for granted
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report

Top reviews from other countries

Translate all reviews to English
  • MaxSpitfire
    5.0 out of 5 stars A True Hero
    Reviewed in Canada on June 26, 2018
    Verified Purchase
    Very inspirational. It is hard to lose such a great Airman, but it seems that his death has actually reinvigorated so many more lives. His sacrifice, and that of his family, is simply overwhelming. I would have been honored to have known such a man and can only wish to aspire to be as strong. I will be able to be inspired by him because of this book. Thanks so much for everything you did and continue to do Mark. Words are not enough to make up for losing Mark, so I will try through my actions in life to be a better person. Per Ardua Ad Astra. Major Fred Paradie, Royal Canadian Air Force.
    Report
  • Danielle Dubois
    4.0 out of 5 stars Un bon livre
    Reviewed in France on June 6, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    Un nouvel ouvrage biographique sur un opérateur des forces spéciales américaines ; plus précisément de l'US Air Force. Je le recommande à toute personne s'intéressant à l'histoire militaire moderne.
    Report
  • emed0s
    1.0 out of 5 stars The guy sure was a hero ... but just as sure his brother is no writer.
    Reviewed in Spain on June 16, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    This book is the result of a non professional writer trying to remember and pay homage to his death brother. It seems like no professional editor was hired either.

    The book is a series of quotes, verbatim, of people talking about the deceased. As such the repetition of mundane stuff is never ending, I felt like ripping my eyes out after each new repetition of a generic visit to his favorite franchise restaurant or this or the other mall.

    The parts when the quotes from the Air Force webpage are used to describe what a CCT job is ... well, I could have read the USAF web for free.
    Report
  • Dan
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great hero, great story.
    Reviewed in Canada on November 7, 2013
    Verified Purchase
    I am happy I had a chance to read about Mark.

    Finding out what kind of person he was just makes you want to do better at everything.

    I hope others will read this book and be inspired.
    Report

Report an issue


Does this item contain inappropriate content?
Report
Do you believe that this item violates a copyright?
Report
Does this item contain quality or formatting issues?
Report