Customer Rating: 
Summary: An Important Book
Comment: This is a good story, with a brisk pace, authentic action, and realistic characters. As a literary work it is probably only worth 3 and 1/2 stars, at best. But I think its real importance is in how it reflects the military's view of the war through the Tet offensive. Its importance becomes clear about when you compare the overall tone of the book towards the Vietnam war with Stephen Coonts' book Flight of the Intruder. The aviators in that book hold a very different attitude towards the war. From what I learned during the late 70's and early 80's while working with Naval Officers, both books are authentic, especially in the attitudes reflected by the military. For people who want to understand the Vietnam war and the effect of the civilian leadership on the military during this time, I strongly encourage you to read both books.
Customer Rating:
Summary: The Best Book Ever for Airplane Drivers
Comment: If you've ever driven airplanes, and especially if you've done so 'in country' then I know how seldom you've been able to read a novel that comes even close to 'taking you back'. I've got some good news - an I got some bad news. The good news is that this particular book is but one of a trilogy. Beginning with "no place to hide" and ending with "North SAR" this book sets itsself between the two. It is incredible in both it's authenticity as well as the character development. The bad news is that Gerry died and there will be no more.Thank you Sir.
Customer Rating:
Summary: Great
Comment: I first read this book when I was sixteen and it was one the big things that helped me decide to join the military. It casts a great picture of what the Marines and Seamen had to go through during Vietnam.
Customer Rating:
Summary: One of the best carrier aviation/combat books I've read
Comment: The author is a true expert and knows first-hand what he is writing about. Add to this his great communication skills, great pen and good humor from the heart - and you've got it! Credentials of Lt.CDR Carroll are impeccable: he had flown 27+ types of military aircraft, had several tours of duty in Vie Nam; after the war was flying search-and-rescue. More importantly, people who knew him say that he had a big heart, trying to help whoever he could, regardless of what's the price. His description of events captivates you. You find action and history there, and possibly something more intangible - the soul of the people who put their lives on the line for their country. If you ever driven a plane, or contemplated doing it, been in the harm's way, or have a friend or a relative that was there - this book will touch your heart.
I cannot come close to showing how great this book is. You owe it to yourself to try it, that's all I can say!
