As I sat in the airport in Hong Kong waiting for my flight to Hanoi, it was hard for me to believe I was returning to Vietnam, where I’d served as a Navy journalist in 1970–71. Once, I’d vowed to never again set foot in that green apostrophe of land so few Americans had ever heard of before the 1960s. I’d been a reluctant participant in the war, serving more out of a Sunday-school-and-Boy-Scout-bred sense of obligation than from any heartfelt belief in our cause. And I’d nearly been killed by a Viet Cong rocket. So why did I want to go back, after two dozen years? Quite simply, I wanted to see the Vietnam I’d missed the first time. Over the years, I’d become embarrassed by how little I knew about this place that had been such a central experience in my life. And yes, I wanted to revisit the places where I’d served long ago, to gauge what power they still held over me. (Gates & Bridges, 1997)
“I hope any American who is still disturbed by memories of the war we did not win will see this book and know that the Vietnam that was our crucible has disappeared.” —Senator John McCain
“This book is all about letting go of the past, seeing Vietnam as it really is today—as a country, not a conflict. It is a great book.” —Jack Smith, ABC News Correspondent
“Offering a vivid and informative look at the new Vietnam—at peace and emerging in economic freedoms reshaping this society.” —Adm. Elmo R. Zumwalt, Jr. (Ret.)
“The reader encounters a rich historical tapestry, scenic beauty, architecture, art, religion, festivals, and the friendly, outgoing Vietnamese people too.” —Richard Busch, Editor, National Geographic Traveler
“This book gives important insights into this farway land. The photos bring the old Vietnam together with today’s Vietnam.” —Jan Scruggs, President, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund