Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite

Command Influence is the memoirs of Robert A. Shaines, mostly covering the years he was a JAG officer in the Air Force. He shares his experiences in the Air Force and Korea; however, his main focus is on the trial of George C. Schreiber. Shaines was one of three defense attorneys when Schreiber was charged and convicted of premeditated murder.

Twenty-five year old Schreiber was a teacher in Illinois before joining the service. His was well-liked and his reputation was spotless. It was obvious to Shaines the man was not only innocent, he was also was the scapegoat to appease the Koreans and to further the career of some military officers.

Shaines supports his story with lots of documentation, quotes, photographs, and letters. Often he utilizes the transcript from the trial. This is a story that needed to be told, not only for the author's peace of mind, but to clear the name of Schreiber.

I have no doubt Schreiber is innocent. Mr. Shaines convinced me. The last part of this book was my favorite. Shaines' conversation with Schreiber's family was priceless. My suggestion for this book is to present the story as a fictional account of an actual event rather than a memoir. All in all I found this tale fascinating. This is a story that had to be told. I find that both Schreiber and Shaines are/were courageous men.