The Hero Code: Lessons Learned from Lives Well Lived

This book is divided into chapters that each focus on one specific virtue: Courage, Humility, Sacrifice, Integrity, Compassion, Perseverance, Duty, Hope, Humor, and Forgiveness. In each chapter, Admiral McRaven describes examples of these traits that he has encountered in other people during his life of military service. The first chapter was a bit depressing, as McRaven recalls the tragic death of a soldier that really exemplified the virtue of courage. Reading about the harsh realities of warfare can be difficult, but also somewhat inspiring, as it is good to know that there are such brave people out there doing their job. McRaven goes on to describe the humility of astronaut Charles Duke, and the sacrifice of a young black American soldier in Vietnam named Ralph Johnson; amongst other stories of real life heroes. Each example offers an opportunity to learn from these heroic people, and celebrate their contributions. McRaven starts each chapter with a quote, and ends each chapter with a 'Hero Code' pledge that relates to the topic. This was a short read, and I thought the book did great job of highlighting some truly heroic people. McRaven doesn't waste any time with superfluous language, he just recalls the people and events that left a big impression on him. I found it to be very inspiring, and I appreciate his writing and his service.

It didn't take very long to read this book, but the lessons were all important reminders of how to live a good and meaningful life. Bill McCraven didn't reveal any new secrets in his book, but it was a concise and gentle reminder on how to live with courage and dignity throughout everyday life. I love this book and have already gifted it to others in my life. Thanks for sharing your gift with all of us.

I truly enjoyed that. Great stories that provide excellent insight. Each story was a simple example of the heroes code point by point. It’s always amazing what people can do!

Awesome read! Giving this book to my grandchildren. This book teaches life lessons that are wonderful!

When I saw an interview with the admiral and saw he had written another book, I immediately went to Amazon and ordered it. I did not look at size, page count. If the Admiral wrote it, then it has to be good. When it arrived I could nor believe the size, it was smaller than most books, large print, in fact perusing the book I decided I would read it in an hour, then forward it to a close friend. I even told him, don't plan on taking more than an hour to read this. Then I began to read and reread and in some cases read a third time, It's not that difficult to read, but to understand what the Admiral is saying takes more than a quick skim. He makes you understand the hero code. I cannot explain it, He does and now after spending two days I am torn between sending it to my SEAL friend or just sending him a second copy. We are both much older than the Admiral so we were retired before he joined. Let me say this, it's not the size of the book, its the size of the thoughts in the book and this book stands on it's own merits and is head and shoulders above so many others.