Book Review: The Vietnam War: My Life in the Air and on the Ground

Hardcover with dust jacket

288 pages - 80 original and historically significant photos/images, many in full color including scenic photos, battlefield images, and flight plan and target maps.

8.5 x 11 portrait orientation

Author: Gerald I. Reponen, Lt. Col. USAF Ret.

$29.95

Website: http://www.savpress.com

Contact the author at [email protected].

Gerald I. Reponen, a gentleman who grew up in Duluth as well as the Esko area, has documented his literal life and death experiences in the air and on the ground in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War era. As a reconnaissance pilot, his keen powers of observation and attention to detail have served him well in documenting both in writing as well as photographical images in this singular work.

He diligently recorded his daily life in personal journals as well as letters home, which he was able to consult in the documentation of his Air Force days in the Vietnam War. Not only did he record facts but also the mood of the country, his fellow service members, as well as his own feelings about what was happening. Although he paints pictures with his words, he further provides context for the reader through his stunning photography. The breakneck pace of daily life he labored under as well as the hardships of being away from family and home are described in detail. The changes he observes in South Vietnam as the war progresses are regretfully noted.

Reponen rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. He served with distinction through three grueling tours of combat flying in the Vietnam War flying 266 missions both night and day in all kinds of weather, one time landing his aircraft riddled with 50-cal bullet holes, leaking fuel, and in danger of exploding. In this fascinating book the highly decorated airman describes at length and in intricate detail what those three long years flying out of Tan Son Nhut airbase was like. He also beautifully describes life in wartime Saigon and how the city changed drastically in three years. The book is a treasure trove of facts, figures, anecdotes, and experiences. Reponen experienced Vietnam at rest and play and at war and on fire. This is the story of two countries besieged by a conflict unlike any before in their histories.

Gerry Reponen witnessed it all and he shares it with distinction with his readers.

It is a monumental work, written from a unique perspective. For people born after the Vietnam War, reading this book will give insights. On the other hand, those who are somewhat familiar with the war will gain greater insight into the land, its people, the conflict, and the people who fought there.