What is the theme in With the Old Breed, at Peleliu and Okinawa by E. B. Sledge?

One of the prevalent themes of the text is the terrible cost of combat and warfare. Sledge is undoubtedly a patriotic and dedicated marine and he considers his military service as a privilege and a duty. His resolute dedication to further and foster the American cause is beyond dispute. Yet, he often contemplates the negative aspects of war and combat. Nearly every discussion of combat is followed by a contemplative reflection from the distance of decades about the horrible cost.