"Brigadier Greg Smith has written more than just a standard military memoir; he tells an extremely important story of his own career that also covers some of the seminal moments of the last forty years in U.S. and Massachusetts history. The insider's account of response to the Boston Marathon bombings of 2013 provides a particularly valuable perspective on domestic civilian/military relationships and coordination when confronting internal threats to the United States, as do the other case studies that Greg highlights from his experience as a participant. I also found Greg's frank statements of his positions refreshing; in particular, he does not pull his punches in discussing debates about who should be eligible to serve in the U.S. military. His important and possibly controversial forward thinking is best expressed in his own words: 'the Army has worked harder at stamping out discrimination than most American institutions can claim.

In the end, though, the greatest weapon the Army has in its arsenal to combat bigotry is the fierce loyalty that soldiers feel for their teammates, their brothers and sisters. Although it was controversial, I was pleased to see 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repealed. I believe the Army is healthier because of it and our society is stronger when all patriotic citizens, regardless of their sexuality, have the right to serve in its defense.' This book will provide a new and vibrant insight into the identity and experience of the National Guard, and its important and evolving role in meeting the challenges of domestic security in the 21st century."--Dr. Daniel Patrick Marston, Johns Hopkins University.