On Wings of Eagles by Ken Follett

There are less than a handful of people I want to meet and talk to, just for an hour or so, because I am intrigued them, their work, or their writing – Michio Kaku, Jodi Piccoult, and Elon Musk. Now, I have another on this list, Ross Perot. I’d place him even before Michio Kaku, and that’s saying a lot.

This book is not fiction. It’s non-fiction. That fact blew me away.

This book chronicles the events of Iran hostage crisis as EDS employees, Ross Perot’s company, experience them in Iran. There are so many astounding FACTS associated with this event, but one that I find so inspiring and admirable is about Ross Perot himself. I was astounded by his dedication to his employees. His willingness to take gargantuan risks – to his reputation, to his fortune, and to his person, was jaw-dropping. He attacked his mounting problems with persistence, and his attitude of not taking no for an answer and continuing to search for a solution was remarkable. His moral fortitude was amazing, and I deeply regret not having considered him seriously when he ran for presidency.

These EDS employees and the rescuers who went into Iran did get lucky, but Oprah famously declared that she didn’t believe in luck. Luck only happens when one is ready, with all pistons firing, as the opportunities come along. Time and time again, this group of courageous and crafty men was ready to take an advantage of any and every opportunity that came along.

This book reads like a fiction. The only books of Ken Follett I have read are The Pillars of the Earth and World without End, so I can’t really compare On Wings of Eagles to any of his thrillers, but I bet it’ll rank high up there with the best of his thrillers.

I’d recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history and a good read. It’s just startling that this is non-fiction (I know. I’ve said it before).

I’m a wavering democrat, but if I ever saw another Perot on ballot anywhere, I’d take a closer look. I don’t care if he or she is republican, independent, or some other party. To be raised by a father or grandfather like Ross and his moral fortitude, he or she definitely warrants a closer look.