Just Cause: The Real Story of America's High-Tech Invasion of Panama

A military historian assembles a comprehensive account of the U.S. invasion of Panama, a campaign that toppled dictator Manual Noriega in December of 1989

McConnell (Into the Mouth of a Cat, 1984, etc.) presents a compelling, crisply narrated account of America's 1989 invasion of Panama. Unlike other recent historians of the invasion (e.g., Kevin Buckley in Panama, p. 575), McConnell does not dwell on the political and diplomatic background of the conflict between General Manuel Noriega and the Bush Administration. Instead, after he concisely sums up the atmosphere of tension in Panama City in the days immediately before the invasion (and paints a demonic portrait of Noriega and his defense forces), McConnell plunges into the military mechanics of the invasion itself. In taut, snapshot-like accounts of the surprise attacks of SEALS, Rangers, and other elite troops at Paitilla Airport, the Canal, and additional vital points in Panama City, the author excels in rendering clear what must have been highly confusing combat situations. McConnell emphasizes the sophisticated technology of the invasion, and his account is replete with military acronyms and technobabble reminiscent of a Tom Clancy thriller--although his clear and fast-paced narrative captures well the atmosphere of the invasion. While his admiration for the brilliant execution of the American military is evident, the author balances his account with descriptions of the tragic ``friendly fire'' episodes that needlessly caused a number of American casualties, and the farcical use of rock music to harass Noriega after he took refuge in the Vatican embassy. An excellent narrative of the invasion, and a superb education in American military technology. (Maps and photos--not seen.) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

The trial of Manuel Noriega is certain to bring renewed interest in the December 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama which resulted in his arrest. The two books here are dramatically different. Just Cause by McConnell (his last work was assisting General Singlaub with Hazardous Duty , LJ 7/91) is for those who prefer their heroes portrayed as square-jawed, unfailingly earnest, and sure of conviction, and their villains as alcohol-besotted, corrupt, and cowardly. Truth be told, McConnell's style does have its moments, and many of the characters do conform to the stereotypical white hat/black hat formula. But the thriller approach is not enough to satisfy those looking for background and analysis to mix with their melodrama. Operation Just Cause by Donnelly, Margaret Roth, and Caleb Baker provides the detail McConnell leaves out. The coauthors are defense journalists, and their explanations of the U.S. military's personalities and planning policies leave the reader with few unanswered questions on the campaign. They credit brilliant leadership and rigorous training with victory. Academic and public libraries will want to add Operation Just Cause . McConnell's Just Cause should find an appreciative audience in public libraries.
- John R. Vallely, Siena Coll. Lib., Loudonville,
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.