Colder than Hell Audiobook By Joseph R. Owen cover art

Colder than Hell

A Marine Rifle Company at Chosin Reservoir

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Colder than Hell

By: Joseph R. Owen
Narrated by: Richard Rohan
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About this listen

Joe Owen tells it like it was in this evocative story of a marine rifle company in the uncertain, early days of the Korean War. His powerful description of close combat in the snow-covered mountains of the Chosin Reservoir and of the survival spirit of his Marines provide a gritty real-life view of frontline warfare.

As a lieutenant who was with them from first muster in California, Owen was in a unique position to see the hastily assembled mix of some 200 regulars and raw reservists harden into a superb Marine rifle company. The action and narrative move fast as the company learns to fight under enemy fire, eat frozen rations, and keep pushing forward when its wounded and dead go down.

©1996 by Joseph Owen (P)1998 by the Naval Institute Press
Korean War Military Military & War Military science Wars & Conflicts War Scary Naval History
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Critic reviews

"Owen's firsthand account is chilling and rather wonderful." (James Brady)
"Joe Owen's account of Baker-One-Seven's courageous ordeal is blunt, authentic, and compelling - a fitting tribute to his company and to his Corps." (Col. Joseph Alexander, USMC (ret.))

What listeners say about Colder than Hell

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The Audiobook "colder Than Hell" Provides A Gripping And Vivid First-hand Account Of The Battle Of Chosin Reservoir During The Korean War From The Perspective Of A U.s. Marine Corps Officer. The Author's Captivating Narrative And Detailed Descriptions Immerse The Listener In The Harrowing Experiences Of The Marines Who Fought In The Brutal Conditions, Showcasing Their Bravery, Hardship, And Unwavering Determination. While The Story Starts Slowly With Background Details, It Soon Picks Up Pace And Offers A Compelling Portrayal Of Infantry Combat, Allowing Listeners To Gain A Deeper Appreciation For The Sacrifices Made By These Soldiers. However, The Author's Occasional Use Of Outdated Terminology May Be Off-putting To Some Listeners.
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Forgotten war

A great read, amazing Americans! Learned a lot about the Korean War. No idea what our troops went through.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars

Good companion to The Last Stand of Fox Company

There is bound to be some overlap between any set of stories regarding a particular military campaign, and the encounter at Korea's Chosin Reservoir is no different. Having listened to the harrowing tales of bravery, hardship, and Marine stick-to-it-iveness in that classic tale, this was a step backward in terms of taking one's breath away with the horror of war in one of its most hellish times. But only a slight step.

For as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that the brave remnants of Fox Company and the Marines in Colder than Hell have a shared destiny. I won't spoil it for those who have yet to read Last Stand, but the two books could almost be interwoven into one excellent epic tale.

Colder than Hell is a very fine book that as an avid reader of military history, I am proud to recommend.

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Colder Than Hell (unabridged)

A well told story about the hell of the Chosin Resevoir in the Korean War. What hardship these men had to go through was astounding.

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A near perfect narrative performance.

The story is one man's perspective. A 2nd Lieutenant in the Korean War. The audio performance is one of the best I've heard in quite some time. Very much recommended. Especially for those who drive for a living, CDL holders or simple long commutes.

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Good story.

The audio sounds like it was recorded in the 50s; not saying its bad, just different.

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Colder than Hell.

A great story about the Korean War and the Vets that fought there. I would highly recommend this Book to anyone interested in History or War.

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Pink Vest

This should be the first book for every Marine Officer. The story provided examples every leader of Marines should emulate. One of the best accounts of battle and demonstrates why the U.S. Marines our the best the nation has to offer. Proud to be apart of the gun club. Semper Fi, Dwayne Thomas, CWO3 USMC, Retired

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Fantastic book !!!

Fantastic book very well written and very riveting !! The book flows very well and keeps you excited. Knowledge of US Marines in the Koran War is beyond GREAT . Highly recommend !!!

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Cannot believe there hasn't been a movie

Of all the battles. Of all the personal stories and struggles, this nation knows little of Korea, let alone Chosin ( and it needs to ! )

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A story every Marine amd American should hear.

This is the true sacrifice of freedom. Men of all race and creed fighting for another as much as their country. These men were true heroes. Its gut wrenching to hear the loss and struggle to win and survive. I truly appreciate the author who read this. as a Marine I couldnt be more prouder amd grateful to have served. Semper Fi!

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