On the Wing of Speed: George Washington and the Battle of Yorktown

Reviewed by William E. Cooper for Reader Views (10/06) I have written reviews on many books on a variety of topics. I have to say "On the Wing of Speed" is one of the best books I've read in many years. I love history, particularly American history, and Mr. Phillips' book captures the time nearing the end of the Revolutionary War with such reality that it seems as if the reader is actually there. This type of writing takes considerable skill and it is abundantly clear Mr. Phillips has what it takes. Making it even more real, I have visited the places his book describes, from New York to Yorktown and he is right on. His near minute-by-minute description of events is outstanding, and the need to articulate the daily movements is certainly there. Mr. Phillips not only writes about the events, but captures the essence of leadership, courage, risk-taking, loyalty, and what it took to make America. As I read the book I felt the weight of decisions and leadership on General Washington's shoulders. Having been in a leadership position for years as a Chief of Police, I have full realization that while I felt the burden at times, it was little compared to those times. This is a book I will always keep in my library and I will read it more than once. I recommend "On the Wing of Speed" with as high a recommendation as I've delivered before, and I genuinely hope Mr. Phillips writes more books. I'll be wanting one of the first.