I was taught about Vietnam in school. As I grew older, I discovered my uncle had served and earned a Purple Heart. While visiting with my uncle, I did learn some insight, although very minimal since he chose not to relive his time there. As an adult, I housed a foreign exchange student from Vietnam and was told a story from the "other side". I felt I had a pretty good grasp on what happened there. Boy, was I wrong!!! This is a first hand account of INFANTRY! FRONT LINE! I read through it pretty much non-stop. It is a book that you will not be able to put down once you start. I kept picturing my 18 year old nephew as "Big John" and with that perspective, the book is haunting. Trying to fathom these BOYS having to endure the fight they fought is gut wrenching. I have never read a book about a Vet's experience and this one was incredible. I cried, a lot. I just never in my wildest dreams imagined the horror like it was detailed in this publication. You find yourself thinking "Oh my gosh, this has to be the worst thing ever". And then you go on to the next chapter and realize how very wrong you were. This book educated me in a way that no history book ever will. While I have always appreciated the sacrifice and service of our military, this gave new meaning to that gratitude. I was fortunate enough to be able to speak to the author, as well as his buddy, Ray, after reading the book and with overwhelming emotion was able to thank them for their service. I am certain, in the past, those words have never meant as much as they do now. READ.THIS.BOOK! And then go on YouTube and watch the video interviews with other Vietnam vets that the author conducted. You will forever be humbled. And honestly, even disappointed in our own military and citizens for the way they treated these brave, young BOYS back then. Absolutely read this book and will be recommending over and over again!