A young Marine deployed to Vietnam finds terror, danger, and death, but also courage, loyalty, and brotherhood. This intense, gritty tale of the Vietnam War, in a setting depicted so vividly you can almost feel the jungle heat, it will draw you in and won't let go. Silent Valor recreates what happened to Lance Corporal Don Talbot and the squad members of Echo Two in their attempt to save fellow Marines surrounded by the North Vietnamese Army. This touching true story will please readers interested in the Vietnam War and all those who find inspiration in examples of courage under fire.
I did not realize, until the very end, that this was Don Talbot's story, as retold by Rick Greenberg. As I look back over the entire book, yes, some of the story had to have had the worst frequencies at the top and the bottom modulated in order to move the story forward, instead of allowing so much horror to put a screeching halt to our sentience. That being said, I was impressed by Talbot's identifying his fellow soldiers as true 'family' and their mutual connectedness as being the best experience of his life. The description of combat is pretty much the best (and longest) I have read, and the final acts before his rescue deserve one 'awesome' and one 'unbelievable.' As a retired physician, I was caught up by all the medical interventions which were made on Talbot's behalf. I would have liked some more information in the Epilogue about Talbot's life after discharge from the service. I am puzzled by the lack of information about medals that Talbot earned, certainly a Vietnam Service Ribbon and a Combat Badge, but I assume that Talbot wanted readers to remember his friends who lost their lives rather than any medals.
I give thanks that Talbot has shared a story which means that he had to experience again those traumatizing events which have to be held in a tension between the then and the now. The first time was bad enough, right?
Lost a school mate, 08 January 68, CAP USMC. This story was quite relevant to me. He could only write friends to tell of his fears of increasing enemy activity in their AO, not family. They were over run and he was killed along with several fellow Marines. The story I believe mirrored his thoughts leading up to that fateful night. He was such a good kid. Always smiling. The real heroes of my generation. I often think of all he missed in these past decades. So sad. The author does amazing job telling Don's story. I commend and thank him. God bless, Sir.
This book tells the story of one young mans experience in war. It tells of the boredom and drudgery of daily life out of the combat zone, and the horror that can happen at a moments notice in a war. The book gives a good idea of the thoughts and feelings that a young man might have as he comes to terms with what role he wants to play in his service as a young Marine at war. His experience turns out to be more than he ever imagined and one that would last for not just an enlistment in the Marine Corps but for a lifetime.
As a vet myself I can appreciate the anguish and futility of.what Don went through. I certainly hope he can find peace for laying such a sacrifice at the alter of freedom. At least that's what Lincoln said in the Bixby letter. I for one believe in those words. Although , unless I missed it, his decorations were not listed. Would have been nice to recognize his worthy achievements for.his sacrifices.
Great insight into a young marines tour of duty in Vietnam
This book gives the reader a chilling account of a young marines daily life during his tour of duty in Vietnam. The loss of his mates during engagements with the enemy, the description of wounds suffered and the cautious interaction with the local population has the reader held firmly spellbound eagerly hurrying to read the next pages.
Very well written, and detailed in virtually every respect! One of the best descriptions of boring duty, minimal contact during the build up to the Tet offensive and when the poop hits the fan. From USMC boot camp, to Vietnam and to recovery from physical and emotional healing! A tribute to all Vietnam Vet's! A must read! Semper Fi
I have read a few books written by war vets, all were well written but this one stands alone. It was well written, emotional, poignant, dramatic, and gut wrenching agony. I felt for Lance Corporal Talbot, the fear, shame and anger. One of the finest accounts on the Vietnam War I have read. Recommend it highly.
I too was a combat Marine in the area of Danang. The enjoyment of reading about how another Marine spent his time in the "Nam" made me remember my guilt of coming back whole. My guilt still remains!
Anyone, especially a Vietnam veteran, will find this book enjoyable reading. I'm sure Don knows what I mean when I say "Semper Fi Marine" and Thanks.
The story about a dedicated good all American young man is told in detail. This story, this book is not only his, but, how the war took so much away from us. In having his story published, he has immortalized his unit, his fallen comrades, and his experiences forever. I highly recommend this book.
Excellent book! The author told the amazing true story Of a Marine in combat in Vietnam! His courage his sacrifice and his compassion for his fellow marines are amazing! I’m a veteran and I hope all veterans would read and really enjoy this true story of a courageous man and what he went thru! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Best book on combat memoirs that I have ever read...and I have read very many. It is heartfelt, genuine, humble, descriptive and incredibly honest and straightforward. Congratulations on an excellent book and thank you for your heroic service for the people of the United States. My best wishes.
An extremely well written book about a tough time. Very honest, open, while telling his brutal story clearly and concisely. Some of the detail is wonderful in its total honesty. A very good book.
Thank you for sharing this account. A gripping read from beginning to end. If you’re interested in real accounts from the. Vietnam War, this is for you. Mr.Talbot, thank you for your service.
I have read hundreds of books on Vietnam War. This man tells stories amazingly. Want to read everything this man writes. Captivating story and a page turner. I highly recommend this book and pray this writer puts more books out 5 star
Very well written. I had two tours in Vietnam and seen nothing like what Don seen and did. I respect all Marines, first in last out. This came from a 24 year Army veteran.
Top notch story about one marine's day to day tour of duty in Vietnam. It feels as if you are there with him experiencing the ups and downs and thrills as he does. A definite mist read.
Story is an honest tale that covers the emotional as well as the factual accounts of one persons experiance s during a troubled time in our nation's history.
A great book, well written and insightful. I would highly recommend this book! Don Talbot is a true American and has given this country his best, as we all should!