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I would like a more truthful perspective about the situation there and written by a woman I'm sure it is most interesting and from a different perspective...I just wanted to say a few words to you and tell you how wonderful I think it is that you have written a book from a womans point of view. I feel sorry for what has happened to the country of Iraq,the infrastructure, the orphans, and the destruction and turmoil their country is going through.
Best Wishes, Juanita
Thank you for your service and hard work. Your book is an easy read; it is a journey to reality that so many are afraid to speak about and admit to it.
Oksana
I finished the book and it really took me back. I cried, reminisced and experienced my personal frustrations from Iraq all over again. These feeling are welcome and I think, a bit healing at this point.
Kay
I just finished your book on Iraq – great read! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and insights into a very interesting part of our nation’s history – and Iraq’s history. You made a difference and continued to blaze trails. I am sending your book to Kathleen...I appreciate all the tough hoops you two had to jump through as the first 2 women at Laughlin to go through pilot training. Kath was always glad you took the extra heat for being the first one. She, too, had the bitten butt marks from the bar scene. Hopefully, we’ve shaved some of those antics out of the training program. Sandra I see this book as being about the issue of Iraq reconstruction but about much more. About the harsh challenges, the rampant sexism, that women have faced in advancing in the military--in this case the Air Force, especially those who chose to fly and to command men. About the conflicts between roles as a mother and an officer that she encountered. About the interesting ways that a woman may be better at resolving some issues than men. It is about how she overcame all the impediments that were put in her way and became an outstanding officr in the Air Force. It also reveals the good old boy club is far from dead--shooting her down in the end despite her record. It is worthwhile reading to get a different perspective on all these issues and more. John You were mesmerizing, articulate, professional and inspiring yesterday morning. Having heard literally thousands of professional speakers over the years, we must say, you are among the very, very best. Jane Kim Olson spoke to our group last Friday and she was fabulous. Many people said it was the best program we ever had. I know your club will enjoy her. JOY It was an honor to meet you as well. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to you speak and admire your style in doing so. Pat I retired from the Air Force in 1969 as a CMsgt, and know full wel the problems women faced in getting anything close to equal treatment in those days. All of them who are now able to do the jobs they want owe a debt of gratitude to you and others like you. Bill IRAQ and BACK was great and I loved reading it, heart wrenches and all. Jim It is with great regret that I purchased your book and did not take the time to meet you... What an awesome story and your depiction of the events made me feel as though I was there. I am so very proud of the way you handled things, and your story should be an inspiration to women everywhere, I am a mother, previous soldier in the military, all the things that you have done, worked disaster after disaster, but have not put my experiences into words, it may be something in the future. You are a true inspiration- Mahalo- Linda Our members join me in thanking you not just for your compelling talk and candid discussion but also your dedicated national service. The World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth has had several strong speakers covering all sides of the Iraq War. You brought to us an important perspective providing us with a better understanding of our mistakes as well as the challenges that we continue to face. That you sold so many books demonstrated that you captured our audience and left them with wanting more! As I mentioned in my introduction, I started your book the night before your talk and could not put it down. Jim I finished your book and thouroughly enjoyed your first hand account of exposure to and immersion in the personal aspects of the people of IRAQ. While agreeing with your assessment that poverty is a root of the people problems I think that the implication that diversion of a like amount of money from bombs and bullets to alleviation of that poverty as a solution may be much too simplistic. Butch Thank you for your kind words, Colonel Olson, and for your years of service to our nation! Part of the pleasure of reviewing a book is reading it, and I certainly did enjoy doing so. God bless. Doc Colonel: I enjoyed reading your book very much and found out that you and I have a lot in common. I, too, was very angry at both the ending of your book and of your career! I am very sorry that you were treated that way. Shame on all of those involved. Barb I was impressed with your presentation of the good our troops have done and the pettiness of some of their superiors, both political and military. I purchased your book and read it that evening. I am truly humbled at the sacrifices you, General Garner and the staff of the ORHA made in an effort to bring civility to an uncivil country. Americans seem always to want the best for everyone and believe that good begets good. This seems to be our folly. You are a fine writer. I would like to purchase, "Iraq and Back" for some of my friends.
I read a novel, years ago, titled "The Ugly American". It speaks volumes about the misguidance and the naivety of our diplomatic corps. We back leaders who become dictators and revolutionaries who destroy democratic reform.
I do want to thank you again for speaking at our club. You are a credit to the Air Force and a great role model for young women
Richard I just finished reading your book, it was wonderful! It took me very little time read it, the hard part was just taking the time and sitting down to read. You are a remarkable women and a great leader. Mollie thanks for doing a terrific job at our spring conference. In all of the years of having a keynote presenter at spring conference that I do not remember anyone receiving a standing ovation!...And that is 8 years x 6 spring conferences = 48 spring conferences! Congrats! Anne Thank you Kim!, Ben However, I am 60 and when I graduated as a teacher I never felt I could aspire to reach for the stars as you did. I also have to be honest and admit that in reading your book I could never have done the things you did in Iraq. I just wouldn't have had the guts! The hours without sleep, total devotion to duty, separation from your two children, and you actually volunteered to do this. It was only at the end of the book that we found out what you meant when you said your career was over. Yet you went over to Iraq knowing that. I felt all through the book that you were exactly the reason our military is the best in the world and always will be. It is the men an women like you Colonel that have always stepped up and responded when needed. Yes, you are a true, warrior and patriot. It is no wonder that everyone who worked with you had such respect and high regard for you. Pam You are truly a remarkable woman and a credit to women everywhere. What a remarkable life you have had. Career wise and life in general. I truly your admire your accomplishments. I loved the book and it is a story that needed to be shared. Sandra Always wanted to know what happened during your time in Iraq, and now I guess I know some of it. Even at 60, I find that I’m still naïve about politics and our government, and reading her account made me angry … angry for the way you were treated, angry at the reasons for much of this war “going south,” and angry that Colonel Olson was apparently naïve, too, and suffered badly in so many ways for it. Next time you talk to or email her, let her know that she’s still making an impact—and on people she’s never met. Gary What a fabulous read. I so enjoyed your book...You are certainly an inspiration! Kami I really enjoyed your book, I think they ought to have a movie made of it. It is a very well written book. Billie Jean I am writing to tell you how much I enjoyed your book, Iraq and Back. Your perspective is truly interesting and, no doubt, much more realistic and accurate than the media. I also greatly enjoyed the pages about the uphill battle for you early air force pioneer pilots. Thank you for your long and distinguished service to our country...You, above many others, appreciate and value our freedoms and luxurious living... Darrell I have just finished reading your book. You have really inspired me. Just think of all the women who would have loved to be in your shoes. Memories are forever...I have heard you speak 2 times. You have really found your own peace. Jeanne I was in Houston this weekend and delivered to my niece, the copy of the book you autographed for her. Her husband, is Brigade Commander for the large National Guard group that was deployed to Iraq last August; and she is dearly loved by these families because she is supportive of them and of their soldier/spouses.
This young couple has now faced the sorrow of losing soldiers in the war and are working through that grief. Your book will be a source of strength to them. It was a joy to meet you. Jean Thank you for speaking at Congregation Ahavath Shalam last Thursday. I was especially interested in your identification of a plan that might be acceptable. We can't "cut and run" and we can't continue the present course. In a no win situation, a bad alternative might be the best alternative. Lester Some thoughts about your book. never really hear about the iraq situation rebuilding the country. all is in the dark and nobody cares. they have lived that way for years so nothing really changes. your history is all the same hidden people get the posts and the ones WHO CARES are dropped by the wayside. good luck more about the future there is not with coming. the gov. is QUIET/// Colonel H As a woman with over 25 yr in the military, your book articulated so many things that go unspoken, yet we keep in our hearts. Thank you for not only sharing your experiences, but for continuing to give so others can learn. Peace, LtCol A2 My wife purchased your book during your presentation. I have read it and it is great. I am truly proud and thankful for your great service that brings credit to yourself, the Air Force, and women. I am angered by the allegations that were brought against you. This is not playing fair. As a Colonel USAF (MC) Ret, I was of the view that Air Force had always been fair and above reproach. It is obvious that you have risen above and beyond and are now happy…I’m glad for you. Bud Thank you for putting such incredible energy into writing this very personal account. It is valuable on many levels, not the least of which is helping people--and unfortunately many who NEED to read this will not--understand that the reality of our being in Iraq is not as simplistic as a lot of our political leadership would like us to believe. We can't just trust them, we have a responsibility as well. Nancy Iraq and Back shows the monumental task of rebuilding a country while explaining Olson’s own rise in the military. Without directly stating it, Olson’s book begs the question: “What would have happened if Garner had been allowed to do his job with the resources Bremer eventually commanded?” It adds another chapter to the story of what went wrong in Iraq. Thank you for your insightful presentation at Grapevine library yesterday. It was a breath of fresh air. I am sure you have myriads more stories to tell, and I hope you have the opportunity to do that. Many more people, Americans and others, should hear you speak about the role of women in shaping the new century. Joseph I have just finished your book and want to thank you for writing it. It is powerful! In fact, after going to bed last night, it was on my mind; so I got up at midnight to read. Jean On Saturday I read your book! It came at the end of a long series of other books you remember.............. I am glad I read everything else first , but I love the book and the story. I am just terribly impressed with the whole deal , and terribly glad that I waited and savored each word. Congratulations on a terrific book! The english major side of me was as impressed as the history side and the female side and just on and on. I can't say enough good. Melinda But your book. I didn't want too much time to go by to tell you the best thing about it was your "voice." Your voice is perfect...I loved reading that book for how it sounded in my head as much as for what it said (which was profound, funny, silly, lovely and many other things)...I found when I went to write on Tuesday that the rhythm of your voice was still in my head. Very strong and good. And helpful to me...it's like a music. Yes, you should write more. Favorite parts where I laughed -- But there were moments with your kids that I just bawled (on the airplane it was embarassing but nothing to do but sniffle). Inspiring, lovely, sweet and sad. Allison
California
Just finished Kim's book--an incredible story. I admire her so much! The book is well written and gives me a picture of the reality behind statistics and military political maneuvering.
Maude I am enjoying your book. I can almost smell the smoke and fear in the air. You make everything so clear and detailed. I can hardly put it down. Jeanne
Georgia
THANK YOU for speaking at the Northeast Chamber of Commerce! AND most of ALL thank you for speaking the TRUTH as to why WE (America) needs to be in IRAQ and finish the job! Thank you to ALL of the military folks who serve! God BLESS America! Sharon
Texas
Thank you for putting such incredible energy into writing this very personal account. It is valuable on many levels, not the least of which is helping people--and unfortunately many who NEED to read this will not--understand that the reality of our being in Iraq is not as simplistic as a lot of our political leadership would like us to believe. We can\'t just trust them, we have a responsibility as well. Nancy Just finished your book, and all I can say is: WOW!!!!!!!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and my hats go off to you! Janeen
Iowa
I read your book on a plane today. I must say good of you to have written it all down!!!!! Not easy… I did not realize how badly the air force had treated you. How appalling and exasperating!!! I wish I could say I was surprised. Shame on Johnny Jumper and many others!!! But I do think the book will help in the process of breaking down all that old boy stuff that can result in the most shocking miscarriages of justice, even in the 21th century! Robin
Washington, DC
THANK YOU for coming to our school! Your presentations to our students were empowering! Several Suzanne
The book is a real GRIPPER!! My wife and I could not put it down. A very well written first person account of the work going on in Iraq. Alan and Jan Minnesota First, I want to thank you for your service, sacrifice and never-ending commitment to our country. Today's soldiers are a sterling example of true patriotism. Your book clearer illustrated the challenges and struggles between being a soldier and a parent. Second, thought the service did you no favors you demonstrated that any person can overcome established prejudices and still achieve their dreams. Third, your efforts on behalf of this country are recognized by all citizens who have read your book. I am thankful that the military has leaders who live by their morals and high standards instead of going with the politically correct acceptable option to advance their careers. I have just finished reading their copy of your book. I found it to be a great read, and easily related to it on several levels, as a woman, mother, daughter, ect. Elice You continue to lead the way. I especially loved your book because I have known you followed your lead from when you were my operations officer back in 1996. I would go to Iraq and back with you, ma'am! Jen I read "Iraq and Back" with mixed emotions. Kim presents a bleak piture of our situation over there, and I hope and pray we can find a way to infuse stability into that region. Tell Kim for me, she gave it her all, and the The Air Forces' loss is Kent's [husband] gain! Jack I am sorry for the delay in getting back to you...but thought it was never too late to let you know that I think
the book is PHENOMENAL. I read it shortly after our meeting in NYC. I was astounded by your honesty and truly believe it is a story worth telling. It is a great book on leadership, especially from a ...I've just finished your book and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the read!! Liz relayed in September that it was coming out....but I wanted to tell you that it really was wonderful...I just wish that you were in charge of things...your clarity is so refreshing....hope that all is well...that your family is great...the book has done well and you are revving up for the holidays...merry Christmas to you... Sheila I was home sick for three days, stuck in bed. BOR-IIING!! Except for one thing - your book! Deborah Just finished reading your book. How well do I understand your feelings? Great, powerful, sad, Anyway, I just wanted to let you know I appreciated your career and your book! OBTW: It was tough to read and relive some of the things that happened over there... but I feel "so" much better having done so. THANKS Sis! Harold I just finished your book-- it's a terrific read, and it sure did bring back a lot of memories. Thank you for writing it. The war has turned into such a quagmire that everyone has forgotten what people like me and you did back in 2003. Your book will serve as a permanent historical record of the fact that, when it is all said and done, we did the right thing in '03. As you inscribed in my copy of your book, "we fought the good fight." Seth I was present at yesterday's Houston World Affairs Council luncheon to hear your presentation. I also enjoyed our brief conversation just before your picture taking session prior to the lunch. I want you to know how much I admire your courage in proclaiming what to me is the obvious but hard truth. Further, you do it articulately and with conviction and credibility. Success is going to be costly but we really have only the choice to pay more later. Terry You were beautiful and brilliant [on C-SPAN]...especially your comment about a need for a three pronged solution to the Iraq problem. Enjoyed the panel immensely...especially you, Paul and David. Lynn Malcolm I finished reading your book several weeks ago and wanted to tell you how interesting, informative and educational I thought it was. I certainly enjoyed it and passed it to another housebound veteran friend of mine who read it and was as impressed with it as I was. Grady It was great to meet you. And it was equally enjoyable reading your book, which I just did. I don't recall any of the accolades on the back cover commenting on your wry wit! I laughed so hard a few times, I cried. Joe On Sat. I sat down and got as you said I would totally sucked into reading Kim's book – brought back so so many memories - The school, the hospital, the electric plant just on and on - I was speed reading but really enjoyed it - I knew very little at all about the end parts and felt badly for her - it must have been a real nightmare - Her respect and admiration comes through so strongly for you - and her love of country Margaret I thoroughly enjoyed your book. When I began reading it, I expected that the book might be a bit "dry" due to your comments about how you compartmentalize your emotions. I found the book to be quite an emotional journey for the reader. I was laughing out loud at parts (the visual image of someone french kissing an electrical wall outlet cracks me up every time I think of it), feeling the anxiety of certain moments in the book, the discomfort at some of the situations, wanting water when reading about the issues of dehydration, feeling sadness for you about the final year of your career in the Air Force, etc. Cindy I’m awed by your strength through such difficult times (and there were so many) and awed by your ability to transcend the trials and tribulations of so much and then capture your experiences so well despite the stress. You are brutally honest even about yourself and should be honored for what you’ve revealed and accomplished…As I ended the book, the first thought I had was: Wouldn’t Oprah Winfrey appreciate knowing you and/or featuring you on TV. Shirley I was privileged to hear your speech Thursday a week ago at the Public Library. I think I told you 3 times how much I enjoyed your talk. Now that I have read your book, I must change that comment just a bit. I have gone from pure enjoyment to the utmost in honor and respect for having met you. You are what every self respecting person in the world, female or male, would like to be. Marcus I MET YOU AT THE WOMENS CLUB LAST WEEK. YOU ARE A WONDERFUL SPEAKER. GINNY Thank YOU!!!! I am so honored to know you. I started reading the book and wow you have been through so much. I can't tell you how much I understand and can relate. Nancy Thank-you for writing your book; it is the most inspirational book for professional women in non-traditional careers that I have read. Keep up the good work. Julie It was so nice to finally meet you in person…I just knew I had to meet you. I have been reading your book. You have a good writing style. Thank you for taking time to record these things for readers like me. Even though I have two sons and a daughter-in-law that have served in Iraq, none of them have really shared their experiences very much with me. Reading your book helps me connect to what they probably observed or experienced while in Iraq. Mary I am so proud of you! Even though I had heard many of the stories already, I hadn't heard them in such moving detail. I cried often and I laughed as well. You've always been a good story teller, and it\'s fabulous that you were able to put into words so much emotion and truth. Hugs and love and thanks to you… Sheri Ken [General] Jay Garner... gave me a copy of your book. By 1000 the next morning I had finished it - I could not put it down. I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it, on several different levels. Your career as a female combat pilot resonated with me. My husband and I have two children together... I want my daughter and my son's daughter (when she can) to read your book. Jay thinks, and I agree, that it should be universal reading for young women. Your book reveals you as a role model for women, with just the right combination of toughness and nurturing to be an extremely effective leader.
Thank you for your wonderful book.
Robin Thanks for a great book “Iraq and Back”. It is certainly a captivating book, one that is hard to put down. You did such a great job in capturing and passing along all of the emotions and senses that you experience that the reader feels as though they are there with you. Even before leaving Iraq, it is apparent that you perceived that the outcome of the mission was not going to be good. While you were ‘saving the world one life a time’, our leaders had other priorities. It must be a great disappointment each and every day as ‘the mess’ gets deeper and more lives are lost. We appreciate your dedication to the military service and to keeping our country safe. No doubt you and the family made many sacrifices to make such a career possible. Anne & Joe I just finished your book on the plane home this afternoon. It was so embarrassing to be crying in public reading it! But I couldn't help myself. There were several places in the book that just grabbed me. Thank you so much for writing this book and for your courage in writing about some very personal moments in your life. This book will mean so much for your children, to say nothing of all the women for whom you forged a path and the general public who gets a glimpse of what life for women has been like. Thank you. Darlene The journey of the read was indeed enjoyable, both your personal story and the saga of events that occurred during the time that you and General Garner were in Iraq. Your career was distinguished and your accomplishments many. Michael Just got your book today. I can't put it down! Very well done on all levels. Very impressive. I love the perspective you bring. Congrats on the book but thanks for what you did for us out there and for me in particular - in supporting a little guy caught in the storm. Thanks again for your wonderful work capturing a piece of history for us all - your book is absolutely first class all the way. Bob Finished the book yesterday and enjoyed it very much! Outstanding job! Kim I can't tell you on how many levels I enjoyed and appreciated your story. It is a slice of global history, political history, military bureaucracy, and aviation addiction, (a good thing), but all that was made so much more poignant from the voice of a woman who endured it as a pioneer in those fields. And I have to say that the most moving part was the poem from
Katie. She exhibited such insight and talent for expression of the inner being as I've ever seen from someone so young. I'm glad to see that she has a happy mom again. |
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