Born in Strife Brothers for Life is a personal military memoir that documents my personal experiences serving in Vietnam with Charlie Troop, 1/9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), the experiences of a Crew Chief on an Armed Helicopter, and a Pilot. I talk about missions, memories, and opinions to include the "Relief of a Squadron Commander" and the "My Lai Massacre," and the personal story of pilot, "The Day I Flew Naked." I also describe the tragic mid-air collision of a Caribou aircraft and a Chinook helicopter. It is not my intention to glorifying war, but on preserving lived experience - the fear, the "Brotherhood" which formed lifelong bonds, the loss of Brothers and innocence. I write with honesty and restraint, offering readers a grounded perspective of jungle warfare and the emotional toll carried long after returning home without going into graphic detail. I have tried to explain just why "Military Reunions" are so important to the veteran and his/her family. It is my hopes and intentions that families of Combat Veterans and Gold Star Family members can learn and understand the experiences that their loved ones endured daily. For students and educators, I hope this book will give you more insight into the Vietnam War. More insight into the daily lives of those who served. How PTSD affects not only the veteran but his/her family as well.
