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| The 5th Marines on Review, May 1918 |
By Colonel
Richard D. Camp, USMC (ret.)
Casemate, 2025
Reviewed by
Dennis Linton
Leatherneck Warrior is a compelling and comprehensive account of one of the Marine Corps’s most distinguished figures. The biography portrays Gen. Shepherd as a man of exceptional valor, leadership, and dedication, whose career spanned three major wars and left an indelible mark on American military history.
The biography begins with Shepherd’s early life in Tidewater, Virginia, where his potential was clear from a young age. Graduating early from the Virginia Military Institute, Shepherd’s military journey began with World War I, where he showed extraordinary bravery at the Battle of Belleau Wood, earning multiple commendations. Despite being wounded twice, "Shepherd declined medical treatment after being wounded and continued courageously to lead his men." (DSC citation) The chapters on the fighting at Belleau Wood and the USMC contribution to the success of the St. Mihiel offensive, when he was wounded for the third time, will be the most interesting content to readers of this blog and students of World War I.
Shepherd’s resilience and strategic acumen continued to shine through World War II and the Korean War, making him one of the rare “three-war Marines.” His leadership during the Battle of Okinawa and the Inchon landings is highlighted as pivotal moments in his career, showcasing his ability to lead and inspire his troops under the most challenging circumstances.
As the 20th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Shepherd’s influence extended beyond the battlefield. He was instrumental in modernizing the Marine Corps, ensuring its readiness for future challenges, and advocating for the welfare of Marines and their families. His legacy is cemented through his contributions to the Corps’s traditions and public image, including the iconic Marine Corps War Memorial.
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Colonel de Camp’s biography is not just a recounting of historical events. It is a profound exploration of Shepherd’s character and contributions. Through detailed narratives and personal anecdotes from Shepherd’s oral history and journals, Leatherneck Warrior offers readers an inspiring testament to what it means to lead and serve with honor.
Dennis Linton
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