01/18/2021
It is with much pleasure and a bit of pride that I announce the international release of two new books. These books represent second editions of my first book, “Privileges of War.”
Throughout the years, I have been asked many questions about the contents of the book and about things not discussed or things discussed only briefly. I have also been offered suggestions for content that should be added. In response, I have spent the last year writing a second edition.
When I finished the manuscript for the new edition, I gave it to a friend and fellow veteran who is also an experienced publisher. After reading what I had written, he told me that, at nearly 800 pages, I had written two books—not one. So, the manuscript was divided into two books corresponding to the original titles of PART I and PART II of the original book.
I am pleased to introduce you to . . . the kids, “Along the Way” and “Rescue in the Valley of the Tigers.”
Both of the books include much more material and many more pictures, well over 100 more than the original in each book. With the new pictures, you will be able to see many of the people and places discussed in each book. And, in the new books, I am now free to discuss the lifelong relationship that developed between the Vietnamese Camp Commander to whom I was a key military adviser and me. Nguyen Quang Ngoc was an extremely brave man who fought fearlessly for the freedom of his country.
When the first book was ready to be published, I feared Ngoc and his family had returned to Vietnam where he might have been placed in a “Re-education Camp” if the communist government became aware of his courageous fight against them. So, I removed all but the most innocuous references to my friend. In 2015, Ngoc’s daughter, Hieu, found me and I was reunited with the family.
“Along the Way” follows the exploits of a young American who leaves a carefree college life and evolves into a seasoned Special Forces military adviser. This book describes what it’s like for nearly every young American who decides to serve his or her country and become a part of a war—a great deal happens and there are many unique experiences. While serving his country, this adviser is in a position to witness many courageous and selfless deeds performed by other American men and women. The stories told in this book are bright and uplifting, not what you typically read about service in Vietnam.
“Rescue in the Valley of the Tigers” tells the exciting true story of a daring rescue mission that freed 165 mountain villagers from a life of slavery and abuse. This book tells the story of a young Special Forces officer who arrived in Vietnam with the hope of accomplishing something meaningful during his tour of duty. When he had nearly given up on the idea, a unique opportunity presented itself.
Not in a position to command Vietnamese troops, the Vietnamese Camp Commander would clear the way for the young officer to fulfill his mission, giving him the troops he needed to attempt a rescue. Then, a fearless group of young aviators would volunteer to supply the transportation and protection the mission would require. For many reasons, this is truly a heartwarming story. And, now, you can see pictures of those rescued and those involved in the rescue.
For those of you who know the first book, the original story, and enjoyed it, you will find much more of the same in the two new books. They are both available in ebook, paperback, and hardcover formats.
To learn more or place an order, The following link will take you to the book website: American Heritage Publishing | Atlanta (therossjewelrycompany.com)
Please share this email with anyone you feel might be interested in the stories these books tell about those who have served our country. And, please send me a note if you have any questions at all.
Please visit the website again. I have now left military writing behind and have begun an action / adventure series. The first book in the series is titled “Black Tie Affair.” While this book is fiction, it picks up some years after the last book ended. Now professionals and executives in civilian life, four former and aging military officers decide to take on the growing drug trade in Atlanta as vigilantes. The book is fun, witty, and exciting as the four community and socially involved men narrowly miss being discovered by local and federal authorities many times. There are numerous twists and turns as the men try to serve their community as they once served their country.
