Johnny get your gun : decisions to enter the U.S. military during the Vietnam War -- Building GI Joe : induction and recruit training during the Vietnam era -- The first wave : the American infantryman in Vietnam, 1961-1968 -- The winter of their discontent : after Tet until the withdrawal and fall of Saigon, 1968-1975 -- Coming home : reintegrating into society and memory of the American infantryman in Vietnam.
Summary:
Drawing on personal memoirs and interviews with Vietnam vets, the author conveys the perspectives of the American combat soldiers who bore the brunt of the fighting. He includes the political culture, recruiting, induction and training, the soldiers' experience, their homecoming, and aftermath.
