Aftermath: A Soldier's Return from Vietnam

by Frederick Downs

A Vietnam veteran recounts his challenging and painful journey back to health after his body was mutilated by a Bouncing Betty land mine near Tam Ky

Genres: History, Nonfiction, War, Military History, Military Fiction

228 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1984

Reviews

[Ellen Satinoff]

This is the second in a trilogy by Fred Downs of his experiences in Viet Nam and after his release from the war. What a tough read. Most of the book is devoted to a retelling of his time in various hospitals after being seriously wounded in battle. His accounts of the surgeries, other patients, the medical staff, and the unbelievable pain these men went through is not for the faint of heart. (Also, for readers of tender sensibilities, I will say there is plenty of "colorful" language, so be forewarned.) Especially poignant was his retelling of his coming back home and how different people reacted to his being a veteran of Viet Nam. I have the final installment of the series (No Longer Enemies, Not Yet Friends) and I can't wait to read it.

[Ada]

Amazing! Couldn’t put it down. You know that saying: “Life is 2% what happens to you and 98% how you choose to react to it” Lt. Downs is a great example of that. The book made me laugh, cry, think, marvel; took me through so many emotions, while providing a vivid picture of what these brave soldiers went through in Vietnam; truly exceptional men, who deserve our respect and gratitude. This story will stick with you for a long time.

[Thomas Hunt]

Heart wrenching story

[Dave Estela]

Poignant story of a young Lieutenant's brutal experiences after sustaining life changing injuries during the Vietnam War, and his efforts to recover from those injuries.

[Mia]

Not particularly well-written but the raw emotion is definitely there.