DEVIL DOGS AND JARHEADS, by Victor W. Pearn, contains 78 evocative poems inspired by the author's experiences in the Marine Corps from 1969-1972. Although originally published in the compilation American Western Song, these poems have been revised for the current edition. Pearn's imagery resonated with anyone who has been in the military and will give those who are about to join something to think about.

Victor W. Pearn has been honing his writing craft for over 30 years, including a professional editing position and giving poetry readings. His "Devil Dogs and Jarheads" collection of poetry is based on his training in the U.S. MARINES during the Vietnam War period. His work is both gutsy and compassionate, earning early praise from a retired U.S. MARINES General and expressions of interest from acclaimed author, Sherman Alexie. History and art come together in a powerful healing force.

The Poetry of Marine Corps Life

In most people’s minds, life in the military does not seem very poetic. Where in the world of drill instructors, sharpshooters, and grunts is the stuff of poems? Would you like to know? Then read Victor Pearn’s new poetry collection, Devil Dogs & Jarheads.

In Pearn’s new book, the world of the U.S. Marine in 1969 comes to life in buzz cuts, reveille, drill sergeants, salutes, rifle ranges, purple hearts, sand crabs, and daily inspections. As Southwest Book Views noted, “The experiences shared in this collection are etched indelibly upon the heart of the writer and now the reader in words that the world can little afford to ignore. This is undeniably exquisite work.”

Entering the Marine Corps in 1969, Pearn spent three years repairing electronics for the Corps before getting an honorable discharge in 1972. Having developed self-discipline and learned to study while in the Marines, Pearn went on to college, finally earning a Masters Degree in Creative Writing from the University of Colorado in Boulder.

His poems have been published in many magazines and newspapers, drawing praise from such notables as Gwendolyn Brooks: “Victor’s poetry contains both strength and appealing imagery.” and American Libraries: Devil Dogs & Jarheads is “a good choice for 20th-century American poetry collections.”