Review of Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath
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- Claudia Angelucci
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- Latest Review: Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath by Randy Miller
Review of Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath
In "Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath," Randy Miller, a Vietnam veteran, doesn't just tell a tale; he unveils an epic saga, exposing the heart-wrenching struggles of the Vietnam Blue Water Navy Veterans. He shines a light on the unjust VA policies that callously denied compensation and healthcare benefits to those exposed to the ravages of Agent Orange—a toxic herbicide wielded during the Vietnam War, which inflicted lasting harm on Vietnamese civilians and U.S. military personnel alike.
At the heart of the fictional narrative beats the captivating story of Zack, a spirited 17-year-old from a Vermont dairy farm, thirsting for adventure. Joining the Navy, Zack finds himself aboard the USS Hawke DD 894, where he learns the intricacies of shipboard life under the guidance of Michael J. Howell. The Hawke gets redirected to Vietnam's turbulent waters. Zack personifies unyielding spirit and unwavering courage, epitomizing the resilience of naval personnel confronting adversity head-on. The book highlights the unbreakable bond among servicemen, portraying them as a united brotherhood who answered the call of duty with unwavering honor.
Miller's storytelling left me deeply enriched, immersing me in the trials and tribulations of those in service and the anxious anticipation of their loved ones at home. Zack's tender letters to his soulmate, Tally, poignantly convey the hardships of the war, yet their unwavering love provides solace and resilience. Miller's vivid descriptions thrust readers into the heart of the action, portraying military tactics and effectively conveying the mental and physical exhaustion experienced as Zack and his comrades navigate the deadly waters of combat. I thoroughly enjoyed the book's inclusion of hymns from the U.S. Navy, which evoke divine protection and guidance.
While I have no reservations about this book, I acknowledge that it's not a light read. It requires dedication and time, as the terms employed can be intricate. Nevertheless, the inclusion of two glossaries at the book's end—one translating Vermont colloquialisms to standard English and the other deciphering technical terms and Navy slang used in Vietnam—enhances clarity significantly.
The characters are depicted with authenticity, and the editing is polished, with only minor errors that do not detract from the overall quality. In conclusion, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
This well-written and well-researched historical novel powerfully underscores the devastating impact of chemical warfare while honoring the often-overlooked sacrifices of veterans—many of whom were scarcely more than children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Yet, upon their return home, they faced psychological, emotional, and physical damage, only to be met with neglect and abandonment by the very country they served.
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Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath
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- Risper Ouma Anyango
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