Vietnam in My Rearview - by Dennis D Blessing (Paperback)

About the Book

"I have a hole in my heart, the Vietnam War left me with a sense of loss and uncertainty that has been hard to overcome. My book is centered around the 212 letters I wrote to my wife in 1966 and 1967. Come along with me and see this war through my eyes as a grunt serving in the First Cavalry Division. My platoon was nearly wiped out in the battle of Bong Son in May 1966, where we went from 36 to 6 troopers in a matter of a few hours. I was one of the lucky ones still standing that day and I continue to wonder why? Many soldiers who were there in the early years of the war will probably recognize many of the places and things I have described. I am hoping the memories I have stirred in my book; both the good and the bad, will help other combat veterans finally escape the shadow of that terrible war. I am certain some form of my story has been lived by other combat soldiers in every war and it is my hope that none of us will ever be forgotten!]"

Book Synopsis

In this heartfelt memoir, Dennis Blessing, Sr., shares his experiences as a grunt in the First Cavalry Division in 1966 and 1967. Blessing's story is drawn from his own remembrance and from the 212 letters that he wrote to his wife while deployed. Among his many combat experiences was the battle of Bong Son in May 1966, in which his platoon was nearly wiped out, going from 36 to only 6 troopers in just a few hours. Told with honesty and vulnerability, the book combines gripping combat with personal reflection, and the author hopes that his story will help other veterans escape the shadow of the war.

Review Quotes

"Several passages in the book, including Blessing's final words, have caused me to think more deeply about some of the causes of PTSD. ...well written and a pleasure to read. I recommend it."-VVA Veteran

About the Author

Dennis D. Blessing, Sr. retired from the public sector as a California Veterans Service Officer. He lives in Mariposa, California.