REVIEWS
AVID READER
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Great Read! Informative & Interesting with a Touch of Humor!
When the Bugle Calls is extremely well written and keeps you hooked from the first page. This memoir is a fun and informative journey through Ray's life and adventures, while giving valuable insight into our armed services and the wars which involved our country.
PAMELA GRAFF
5.0 out of 5 stars -- An important memoir of military life and sacrifice
Ray Boland's memoir, "When the Bugle Calls," offers a poignant journey through a lifetime dedicated to military service. Beginning with Boland's childhood, it skillfully illustrates how early experiences shaped his unwavering desire to serve his country. Throughout, Boland candidly explores the toll military service takes on personal life and family, highlighting sacrifices and the challenges of maintaining relationships amid deployments. He also reflects on the impact of external influences like media and public opinion on service members. Boland's memoir is a tribute to courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who answer the call of duty.
MARGARET E. HIPWELL - CANADA
When The Bugle Calls by Ray G. Boland is an engaging, informative, and beautifully crafted Memoir, detailing with the life of a career soldier in the U.S. Army, the lifestyle of Army personnel, and how his family copes with frequent deployments and manages in his absence.
From the first sentence in his Introduction, Ray captures the reader’s attention: “I was just four years old when Japan bombed the United States military bases at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.” Ray’s chronological depiction of his life as a soldier, including his fears, disappointments, and promotions, keeps one rapidly reading to the end of the eighteen chapters. I was so engrossed in Ray’s life and adventures that I read the book in two long sittings.
Ray is a very entertaining writer. I found myself laughing aloud on so many occasions, especially when he describes the incident of the run-away aircraft and his escapade in buying a case of beer. His captivating writing style and positive outlook on life left me feeling that I was sitting with him as he shared the ups and downs of his life.
Ray highlights the unpredictable nature of a soldier’s life by their need to be ready within hours for deployment on a new mission, or transferred to a new far away base, or a new country. He served in Vietnam, Germany, and Hawaii. To accommodate his frequent postings, he emphasizes the strength and efficiency of his wife, Jackie, in keeping the family together and meeting the challenges of organizing and selling their homes, finding new accommodations, and registering their three sons in new schools, sports, and extra curricular activities.
Ray doesn’t shy away from drawing attention to the behind the scene politics that go on among the higher-ranking personnel when it comes to soldiers’ postings, promotions, and rewards for service. He is always perceptive to his surroundings for he knows when to remain silent and when to speak, especially when interacting with his superiors and with his subordinates.
Ray is equally forthcoming in giving a balanced view by naming those Officers in higher ranks, who kindly pulled him aside and willingly offered him advice and direction on how to advance in his career. In rounding out his descriptions of a soldier’s life, Ray stresses the social interactions, the sense of community, and the comradery that exists among soldiers and their families, irrespective of rank or status.
Ray is a role model to other soldiers, he is ambitious, and a life long learner, given how he ascended through the army ranks and how he continued to enroll and successfully graduate from courses and training exercises irrespective of the demands of the course work. Clearly his optimistic approach to life and natural leadership skills did not go unnoticed by his superiors.
I particularly liked the layout of Ray’s Memoir. The titles of the chapters and the subheading within the chapters lived up to their claims and prepared me for the events to unfold. Including the Acronyms proved helpful in decoding the shorthand terms within the Army, and will be of particular interest to anyone wishing to pursue a career in the that field.
I felt that the inclusion of the Photo Gallery added another level of authenticity to Ray’s life story and brought me closer to understanding his experiences. Ray has thoughtfully Dedicated his book to Jackie, and I feel that is fitting, however, at the end of his book, I would have liked if Ray had reminded me that Jackie had passed away due to cancer for, I was a little puzzled when Donna appeared. Overall, When The Bugle Calls is a delightful read and can be enjoyed by anyone wishing to learn about a soldier’s life in the U.S. Army.
BRENDAN WILSON - LT. COL. - U.S. ARMY (RETIRED)
I love this manuscript. It contains not only an individual soldier’s memories, but a window onto the events of the time period.
I found myself relating to so much of what was written. Like Colonel Boland, I too was a field artillery officer, and I did spend a short time in aviation as a forward observer in an OH-58. I also attended the Field Artillery Officer’s Basic and Advance Course. Like him, I started in the National Guard and fought my way onto active duty and eventually served a full career.
This memoir speaks for the thousands of service men and women who struggled through the Vietnam War and beyond. I met Ray Boland at a writer’s conference in Chicago in 2023. He is a very modest person, and the reader can be sure the telling of his adventures is understated; he always gives credit to others.
For me, what shines through that modesty is foremost a sense of perseverance in the face of uncertainty and adversity. In Vietnam, when his aviation command is devastated during a nighttime attack, his superiors wanted to disband the unit and distribute the remaining helicopters and personnel to other units. But (then) Major Boland will have none of it. He and his soldiers rise to the situation, rebuild the unit and continue to provide the support to other units in combat without interruption. Boland gives the credit to his team, but those of us who have served in command know this type of extraordinary performance only happens when soldiers have confidence in their leader.
It’s not all excitement and adventure. Boland relates in a pain that has lasted 50 years, his disappointment when the country seemed to turn its back on those who were fighting and dying in Vietnam. This is not about politics; it is a personal story about friends, colleagues, family and, in the end, the triumph of perseverance over perceived betrayal.
This a great book. It is a must read for anyone wanting to get a personal view of an epic conflict that still haunts the American soul.
DIANE VIELHUBER
Take the time to read this slice of American history
This is a wonderful and beautifully-written memoir that will captivate you and help you learn and understand from one person's point of view how America has changed over the decades.
In his book, Ray covers 50 years of American history. As he focuses on his 30 years of active-duty service in the Army and National Guard, this book shares more than facts. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the Cold War, the Vietnam War and other significant events during Ray's years of service.
Yet, it is much more than a book of events. Ray shares how military life affected his family. He talks about the challenging aspects of military service. In great transparency and with humor and honesty, we get to journey with Ray through his years of service. Yes, he shares the unexpected and great bugle calls of his life. He also does not shy away from the times of disappointment and heartbreak as well.
This is a book for more than those who have served in the military. Ray shares how a boy from the wrong side of the tracks answers the bugle calls that give him opportunities beyond what he ever anticipated.
As you read this book, think of others who would be inspired by Ray's story and strongly encourage them to read it as well. Written to encourage other military service people to shatter their stores and experiences, let's get this message out so slices of American history are preserved.
PARKER B.
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Good Read for Any Audience
"I have read the first 5 chapters and find the book very applicable and interesting to any reader from any background. Although it is an autobiographical story, it weaves together world events and decades that i was not a part of in first person. The story of perseverance and the journey that life takes you through kept me reading. And I'm not just saying that because he is my grandfather! Great Writing Papa and I cannot wait to read more! All my love."
JIM MOWERY - OLD SOLDIER
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Ethics and Honor: A Life Well Lived
"This is a book about ethics and honor. It is wrapped in the story of a life well lived. Take the time to read it. You will walk away with a smile on your face and a determination to be a better person."
Great book, great read, great man.
LIZ BOLAND
5.0 out of 5 stars -- When the bugle calls
"I really enjoyed this book. It is wonderfully written and gives a great insight into the US army and what families of soldiers have to go through, such as, long absences from home and many house moves. Many soldiers rarely talk about their experiences in the army so I think this book might encourage others to tell their story also.
It also makes me wonder what will be the effects of war on the children of today's world, as Ray pointed out how the bombing of Pearl Harbor was a huge significant event and influence on his life, and he was only a small child.
Overall, "When the bugle calls" is a very interesting read, and Boy, what a good memory Ray has. Such detail of all the different courses he did and aviation stories are wonderful. Congratulations."
SARA PITCEL
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Big Things Are Worth the Effort!
"When the Bugle Calls" isn't just a memoir; it's a testament to the enduring human spirit. Ray Boland's unflinching account of his 30 years in the army takes us on a journey through grueling training, the camaraderie of fellow soldiers, and the harrowing realities of combat. Boland doesn't shy away from the difficulties - the physical challenges, the emotional toll, and the ever-present danger. Yet, woven throughout is a powerful thread of faith and perseverance.
Boland's unwavering belief in God serves as a guiding light, a source of strength in the darkest moments. It's this faith that compels him to push forward, to face his fears, and to find meaning in the midst of struggle. The book doesn't preach; it simply shows how faith can be a source of solace and resilience.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its portrayal of the deep bonds forged in the military. Boland's descriptions of his fellow soldiers - their humor, theirs fears, and their unwavering support for one another - create a powerful sense of camaraderie and patriotism. We see how these shared experiences create a unique kind of family, one that transcends background and circumstance.
"When the Bugle Calls" is more than just a soldier's story; it's a universal message about the challenges triumphs of life. Boland reminds us that big things are rarely easy, but through faith, perseverance, and the support of loved ones, event the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
This book is a must-read for anyone who has ever faced adversity, anyone who appreciates the power of faith, and anyone who wants to be inspired by the courage and resilience of the human spirit."
AMAZON CUSTOMER
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Take the time to read this slice of American history
"This is a wonderful and beautifully-written memoir that will captivate you and help you learn and understand from one person's point of view how America has changed over the decades.
In his book, Ray covers 50 years of American history. As he focuses on his 30 years of active-duty service in the Army and National Guard, this book shares more than facts. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the Cold War, the Vietnam War and other significant events during Ray's years of service.
Yet, it is much more than a book of events. Ray shares how military life affected his family. He talks about the challenging aspects of military service. In great transparency and with humor and honesty, we get to journey with Ray through his years of service. Yes, he shares the unexpected and great bugle calls of his life. He also does not shy away from the times of disappointment and heartbreak as well.
This is a book for more than those who have served in the military. Ray shares how a boy from the wrong side of the tracks answers the bugle calls that give him opportunities beyond what he ever anticipated.
As you read this book, think of others who would be inspired by Ray's story and strongly encourage them to read it as well. Written to encourage other military service people to shatter their stores and experiences, let's get this message out so slices of American history are preserved."
KINDLE CUSTOMER
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Great story teller!
"Ray has the ability to take you through his military career and let you tag a long. Unbelievable some of the adventures and tests of faith, but he does a remarkable job captivating you. Though I don’t tend to read military books, Ray Boland has a unique way of telling his memoir!"
SARAH NELSON
5.0 out of 5 stars -- A powerful memoir with depth, humility, and patriotism
"From the author’s childhood reflections and first sense of a bugle call, I was pulled into the stories of challenges and successes. The honest and humble recollections show a parallel between the changing tune of the bugle’s call and what it meant for the author, his future, and his family. The stories shared about his experiences in the military are a reminder of what our service members and their families endure for the protection of our freedoms. This is a must read for anyone touched by the true American spirit!"
KINDLE CUSTOMER
5.0 out of 5 stars -- A HERO TELLS HIS STORY
"When the Bugle Calls by Ray Boland is an incredible journey of perseverance, faith, and determination. Boland's storytelling beautifully captures his rise to the highest levels of national security, reflecting 50 years of American history. The book offers personal anecdotes, firsthand accounts of historic events, and profound lessons in resilience and sacrifice. A must-read tribute to the brave men and women who serve our country. Highly recommend!"
SAVVY SHOPPER
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Fascinating Story
"Ray Boland’s When the Bugle Calls is an impressive memoir of a soldier’s call to serve. I felt as if I was sitting across the table from Boland with a cup of coffee as I read the memoir. The book not only relates his military journey, but it also touches on many life lessons and bits of wisdom from a man who has seen a great deal in his lifetime. The book motivated me to recall my roots and reflect on my life and whether or not I have answered my personal calls. I can’t wait to share a copy with my own military son."
RYAN B.
5.0 out of 5 stars -- Like you were there!
"This is a captivating account of one man’s incredible journey through American history. The author’s fluid and easy-to-read writing style makes this book a joy to read, seamlessly blending personal anecdotes with historic events. Ray Boland’s story of rising through the ranks of military and public service through determination and faith is truly inspirational. His vivid storytelling places you right beside him, experiencing each challenge and victory firsthand. This book is a tribute to the power of perseverance and the true meaning of service and sacrifice. It offers profound insights into the sacrifices made by our military, leaving you with a deep appreciation for their bravery.
"When the Bugle Calls" is a must-read, filled with lessons in resilience and determination. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an enriching and inspirational read! "
JEFFERY T. NAGASHIMA
5.0 out of 5 stars -- A Triumphant Tale of Perseverance and Patriotism – A Must-Read!
"When the Bugle Calls by Ray Boland is an extraordinary testament to the power of perseverance and the indomitable human spirit. This captivating memoir takes readers on an inspiring journey through Boland's remarkable life, showcasing his rise from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of national security.
Through heartfelt storytelling, Boland offers a deeply personal and authentic narrative that reflects the broader history of America over the past fifty years. His anecdotes and firsthand accounts provide a vivid glimpse into historic events, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by those in the armed forces.
What sets this book apart is its profound exploration of service and sacrifice. Boland's experiences, shared with raw honesty and emotional depth, underscore the true meaning of dedication to one's country. The personal sacrifices made by Boland and his family are both humbling and inspiring, reminding us of the incredible resilience required in the face of adversity.
Reading "When the Bugle Calls" is a deeply moving experience. Boland's journey is not just a story of military valor but a universal lesson in determination and resilience that resonates with readers from all walks of life. His unwavering faith and commitment to his ideals are a beacon of hope and inspiration.
This book is a tribute to the brave men and women who serve our country, and it leaves readers with a renewed sense of gratitude and appreciation for their sacrifices. Boland's narrative is both heartwarming and uplifting, filled with moments that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
"When the Bugle Calls" is a must-read for anyone seeking an inspiring and heartfelt story of courage, perseverance, and patriotism. It is a powerful reminder of the triumph of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who serve. Don't miss the opportunity to experience Ray Boland's incredible journey – this book will change your perspective and leave you profoundly moved."
PATTI KINGSTON
"What a wonderful read! Ray Boland tells his story with truth and humor. "The Bugle Calls" recounts his 30-year military career and assignments both at home in the United States and in Germany, twice. This is an intriguing accounting of his life's ups and downs which he says were always guided by the hand and Spirit of God. His many decisions were based on the call of the bugle. The bugle call was a constant theme and a clever device that he describes using in most of his career decisions. He tells with honesty his disappointments and misgivings. Throughout his career he was having to overcome one SNAFU after another. Some were amusing, some not so much. He has checked his politics at the door since he wants to write only his direct experience in the military.
Mr. Boland always gives a nod to wife, Jackie, who was very often stuck with moving the family while he went on ahead to his new assignment. As an Army family, they both had to make friends quickly and be prepared to leave them behind. She was a good cook, and they always entertained., His description of successfully raising three boys in a life that most would feel difficult, being constantly on the move, should be read by young men or women just entering military service.
Though preparations for war are always in the background, he finds a way to interest the reader in world events happening during his 30 years of service. He describes meeting some of the well-known military figures, such as Colin Powell. His two tours in Viet Nam are described in heart stopping detail. He entertains the reader with the description of hosting Bob Hope when he was performing for some of his troops in at Fort McCoy, Boland's last posting.
I enjoyed the early chapters describing Mr. Boland growing up in the 40s, as that was my experience too. Very different times. I agree with his feeling that there should be an opportunity for High School graduates to perform some sort of national service as they are just getting a feeling about what they want to do.
It's a book to be read with great interest by those in the military or retired from it. But it's also a very entertaining read for those of us who want to understand the lives of our military heroes."
LESLIE LIGHTFOOT
"The honesty and humility in his writing is definitely midwestern. I can say from our personal friendship that he is one of the kindest veterans that I have met and has a right to be proud of that. I hope many people read this sweet book."
MARY ANN FLOERKE
5.0 out of 5 stars - Down to earth story of Military life shared by Ray Boland
"I've just completed reading "When the Bugle Calls" by Ray Boland... a wonderful memoir of his life in the US Military shared with all of us. I appreciate all he did and his sharing through his book. He takes us all over the world - sharing how hard it is for military families along the way. He even gives us recommendations of movies and book which truly depict military life versus things that give a totally untrue picture. I appreciated that... more good reading ahead. I found it amazing that his story began and ended at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin! Ray has answered the call of the bugle well! Thanks for sharing your story with all of us! A good read!"
JOEL D. STRACK
"I have had the privilege to know Ray since 1960 and had him as my 2nd Lt back then. Ray's accomplishments in Military life despite still trusting his faith and goals.
Anyone reading this book will find Ray to have God given talents in bringing his soldiers together in a teamwork atmosphere finding the good in each man. Accomplishing his missions with soldiers performing their duties because they believe and want to not because they have too.
I will be excited to share the book with my friends with similar interests. I really enjoyed the book and was well written especially for an old Veteran and hard to put down.
I feel blessed and proud to call Ray my friend and comrade after 60 plus years."
KRIS K.
“When the Bugle Calls” is a memoir of faith, resilience and hard work. This book offers life lessons for young and old alike. An enjoyable and insightful read."
MITCHELL MILNER
"Decorated war heroes are not known for writing books about their lives and their struggle to understand why they became soldiers, put up with frustrating military bureaucracy and endured years away from family and loved ones.
Ray Boland weaves a fascinating tale of growing up poor and neglected in a Southside Chicago ethnic neighborhood. As a four year old, Boland recounts the fear he and his mother felt when Pearl Harbor was attacked and how that experience shaped his later life. “When the Bugle Calls”, is structured in a similar manner around the many turning points in his life, such as Boland’s decision to return to combat duty in Vietnam for a second tour and his introspective look at his past and present for making that decision.
Boland’s experience in Vietnam piloting airplanes and helicopters through combat zones is told in riveting detail but these interesting war stories are also explained through the lens of a sensitive human being who understands the cost of war to his own psyche, the mental health of the men he served with, their marriages and relationships with their children.
In retirement, Boland has continued to “Answer the Bugle Call” and has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of homeless veterans. I had the privilege of working with Ray to build housing for homeless vets. Ray’s genius was both hearing the bugle’s call and answering that call with unwavering determination to set things right. I look forward to Ray’s next book."
LARRY G.
"I really enjoyed reading “When The Bugle Calls: A Soldier’s Memoir”.
Reading about Ray growing up in Chicago and joining the ROTC definitely points in the direction that Ray was destined for a career in the military.
Ray never spoke to me about his military service, so I especially looked forward to reading about his time in Vietnam as a pilot. It is amazing the sacrifices the soldiers and their families make in service to their Country.
The next part in the book that I found unbelievable was Ray’s involvement in a plan to remove Noriega from power in Panama. These incredible details in the book are what you would only see in movies.
I felt a fitting ending to the book was when Ray was finishing his career at Fort McCoy as its Commander. This base is near my hometown.
In ending, I would like to thank Ray for his service and to all the Men and Women who have served in the military to protect this Country. God Bless."
ALLAN K.
"This is a gem of a book. Ray Boland tells the story of a young man who wanted to be in the military and how he ended up spending 30 years in the U.S. Army and National Guard. He also emphasizes the trials and misfortunes of the odyssey of military dependent families, who spend their lives interrupted by frequent moves. Boland's story also includes his action in two tough tours in Viet Nam.
Easy enough, you say? Having a wife, three sons, a dog, and all their belongings uprooted every few years, finding a new unfamiliar place to live, different schools for the kids, meet and make new friends, for all was not always a lot of fun. Would it be great to move 5,000 miles away, return after a year or two, then move just 500 miles away, and then do those 10 or 15 more times? Colonel Boland and his family faced packing their bags and moving on to a different post, fort, or command, frequently. And, of course, they could not select their choice of post, etc. - good luck, dogface, if it was a good one.
Boland reminds us about the difficulties of the many personal and family transitions. Just think of the tens of thousands, millions of men, and more recently, women, and their families who have followed the loyal path of making the best of the cards they have been dealt. We're reminded how fortunate we are as a nation to have men and women serving, and sacrificing, for all the rest of us so we can live more customary lives. That's really what this memoir is about. It is a story to bring understanding of a soldier's life, and his family, and their transitional lives.
This is also a story of how a young man grew up through the tough competition of the U.S. Army's officer corps, an outlier as a National Guard officer who worked hard to demonstrate his abilities to become a senior officer and learned to command other soldiers. He assumed significant duties, from flying aircraft of different kinds to command in battle and taking enemy fire. That was part of, "... the long winding road of twists and turns," [in order to proudly] " serve my country as a soldier, the military life."
PAMELA A. GRAFF - Veterans Health Advocate, Entrepreneur, CEO
"Ray Boland's memoir, "When the Bugle Calls," offers a poignant journey through a lifetime dedicated to military service. Beginning with Boland's childhood, it skillfully illustrates how early experiences shaped his unwavering desire to serve his country.
Throughout, Boland candidly explores the toll military service takes on personal life and family, highlighting sacrifices and the challenges of maintaining relationships amid deployments. He also reflects on the impact of external influences like media and public opinion on service members. Boland's memoir is a tribute to courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who answer the call of duty."