On Combat

The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and in Peace

By: Dave Grossman, Loren W. Christensen

Narrated by: Dave Grossman

On Combat looks at what happens to the human body under the stresses of deadly battle and the impact on the nervous system, heart, breathing, visual and auditory perception, memory -- then discusses new research findings as to what measure warriors can take to prevent such debilitations so they can stay in the fight, survive, and win. A brief, but insightful look at history shows the evolution of combat, the development of the physical and psychological leverage that enables humans to kill other humans, followed by an objective examination of domestic violence in America. The authors reveal the nature of the warrior, brave men and women who train their minds and bodies to go to that place from which others flee.

After examining the incredible impact of a few true warriors in battle, On Combat presents new and exciting research as to how to train the mind to become inoculated to stress, fear and even pain. Expanding on Lt. Col. Grossman's popular "bulletproof mind" presentation, the audiobook explores what really happens to the warrior after the battle, and shows how emotions, such as relief and self-bame, are natural and healthy ways to feel about having survived combat. A fresh and highly informative look at post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) details how to prevent it, how to survive it should it happen, how to come out of it stronger, and how to help others who are experiencing it.

On Combat looks at the critical importance of the debriefing, when warriors gather after the battle to share what happened, critique, learn from each other and, for some, begin to heal from the horror. The listener will learn a highly effective breathing technique that not only steadies the warrior's minds and body before and during the battle, but can also be used afterwards as a powerful healing device to help separate the emotion from the memory. Concluding chapters discuss the Christian/Judeo view of killing in combat and offers powerful insight that Lt. Col. Grossman has imparted over the years to help thousands of warriors understand and come to terms with their actions in battle. A final chapter encourages warriors to always fight for justice, not vengeance, so that their remaining days will be healthy ones filled with pride for having performed their duty morally and ethically. This information-packed audiobook ploughs new ground in its vision, in its extensive new research and startling findings, and in its powerful, revealing quotes and anecdotes from top people in the warrior community, people who have faced the toxic environment of deadly combat and now share their wisdom to help others.

On Combat is easy to understand and powerful in scope. It is a true classic that will be listened to by new and veteran warriors for years to come.

Should be mandatory.

What made the experience of listening to On Combat the most enjoyable?

Col. Grossman took the time to narrate this work himself. His passion for understanding human behaviour under extreme stress and how to help military and law enforcement professionals is evident.

What was one of the most memorable moments of On Combat?

After reading/listening to this work you will gain a greater understanding of the challenges that the modern day warrior faces. Facts supported by evidence demonstrated through endless examples throughout history. On Combat offers the modern day warrior the practical knowledge needed to survive physically and psychologically.

Have you listened to any of Dave Grossman’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

On Combat and On Killing should be mandatory reading material for any law enforcement officer of military personnel.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

This work will give the modern day warrior the tools he/she needs to survive the psychological stresses of peace an warfare. It will help the family members of these warriors to understand and how to readjust to life after a combat experience.

Any additional comments?

Should be read and re-read every year.

Understanding extreme stress on the body

Would you listen to On Combat again? Why?

This is a great book for anyone who works in extreme stress environment and understanding the effects of stress on the body, and it helps you to understand how to use the effects of stress to your advantage. This is not just a book for the military or law-enforcement it is also great for those in the medical field or any one living in a high stress environment.

What was one of the most memorable moments of On Combat?

It is stated in the book you do not rise to the level of expectation. But you sink to the level of your training.

What does Dave Grossman bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

It is great to have the author of the book as the narrator it is like you were at one of his seminars.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes!

Powerful

I am not a public servant of any kind but this should be mandatory reading for anybody who is or cares about their family and those around them!

life altering

And I thought On Killing was great! This has expanded on many topics of On Killing. Easily top 5 books I have ever read!

Great book

Taking a break and delving into non fiction I found this book fascinating. Well done. So much information deserves a second listen. I will take a deep breath first. Loved it.