hasseltkoffie's review against another edition
4.0
"We do not want an expanding struggle with consequences that no one can foresee, nor will we bluster or bully or flaunt our power. But we will not surrender and we will not retreat."
Lyndon B. Johnson, July 1965
Lyndon B. Johnson, July 1965
nottheprofileyourelookingfor's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.25
binstonbirchill's review against another edition
5.0
If you want to know about the experiences of a helicopter pilot in Vietnam this is THE book to read. Mason’s description of the mechanics, maneuvers, and the missions he flew is excellent. For those unfamiliar with helicopters, have no fear, you’re in good hands. A classic account of a soldier at war, it feels as fresh and intense as when it came out thirty-five years ago.
tarmstrong112's review against another edition
4.0
This was a really great memoir. I especially liked the last half of the book dealing with the authors slow descent into PTSD. Very harrowing and sad. Altogether though, a very interesting and personal look at the Vietnam War.
superike's review against another edition
4.0
I guess I was spoiled by the glaring reviews and endorsements this book got and I was expecting more. Regardless of initial expectations, this is an excellent account of the life of a "slick" (transport) helicopter pilot. Mason piloted the famed Huey helicopters during his tour of duty, initially with the 1st Cav (yes, he did participate in the Ia Drang Valley battle, popularly known through the We Were Soldiers movie).
The last part of his Vietnam tour was with a unit called the Prospectors, and his account of his stay there is quite astounding and very different than the 1st Cav.
As with a lot of Vietnam veterans, his return from the war to civilian life was very difficult, with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder that lasted decades.
The last part of his Vietnam tour was with a unit called the Prospectors, and his account of his stay there is quite astounding and very different than the 1st Cav.
As with a lot of Vietnam veterans, his return from the war to civilian life was very difficult, with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder that lasted decades.
thedeightonator's review against another edition
3.0
There were a lot of interesting stories here and there but overall this wasn’t as engaging as I was hoping it would be.
I can definitely see Richard Linklater adapting this into a film. It’s very much like one of his films.
I can definitely see Richard Linklater adapting this into a film. It’s very much like one of his films.
es_relentless's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced
5.0
sleepyboi2988's review against another edition
5.0
Superb first hand account of a Huey pilot's Vietnam War.