"Gallego enlisted in the Marine Corps and later served as an infantryman in Iraq, where he saw extensive combat as part of a company that went on to suffer some of the highest casualties of any Marine company during the conflict. ... Gallego’s memoir of his war experience, They Called Us Lucky, is an emotional and at times angry book that emphasizes the tenacity of combat trauma in his own life and in the lives of his fellow-soldiers." — Benjamin Wallace-Wells, The New Yorker
"A powerful, grunt’s-eye view of modern combat and the struggle to readjust to life back home. ... This searing autobiography leaves a mark." — Publishers Weekly
“A deeply felt, swift-moving account of war and its complex aftermath.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"A striking account of the men and women who defend our great nation. A great gift for anyone who values their dedication and sacrifice." — Scott Kelly
“A forthright memoir about a man who fought enemies, both external and internal. The journey of the soldier doesn’t end when they are discharged, as Gallego shows, the adjustment is constant. The scars of war permeate even the toughest of soldiers and Gallego’s memoir proves that with empathy and sympathy.” — San Francisco Book Review
"An outstanding entry in the field of military memoir, Gallego's colloquial narrative stays on target throughout his many grim experiences with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines in the Iraq War. ... Ruben Gallego offers a spellbinding account of his 'spur of the moment' decision to enlist and his devastating experiences at the height of the Iraq War." — Shelf Awareness