From LibraryThing, May 13, 2026
“This book is a testimony to the love of both a father and mother faced with impossible choices and circumstances regarding their son. It was difficult to read because Doug’s experience in Vietnam and at home shines a bright light on the injustices faced by those who served there–many who still carry visible and invisible scars decades later. So many servicemen became addicted to drugs thanks to the unconscionable decisions they were being asked to make and the horrible things they witnessed daily. To read in such detail how high-ranking officers in the Army, the President, and other leaders lied and covered up their own, and their government’s, wrong-doing makes your blood boil, especially when it was done at the expense of ordinary enlisted men. Douglas was certainly not a model soldier, however, he did not deserve what he got. None of them did. I watched as my own father spent years arguing with the VA and government over Agent Orange and other health issues directly related to Vietnam and I can only imagine how Doug’s family must have felt screaming into the void over those years of their struggle. The fact that this book came out when our country is again embroiled in a war with no purpose led by high-ranking liars just makes it all the more damning as a historical record. While I am sure this was a difficult journey for the author to take, I am grateful that she shows us one of the unintended consequences of the war in Vietnam and its impact on her family, which represents so many more…an important [book].”
Seeing those photos of Doug breaks my heart and fills me with memories of that awful era. I’m very much looking forward to reading the book.
Seeing a young man holding a weapon of War rips at my heart. I’ve lived in and traveled through many countries that were either on the edge of war or post war. The outcome was rarely positive. I can say, for certain, that war changes the landscape of where we live forever. We often become less tolerant, less kind, more suspicious, and an element of hate can rise up from deep within our souls. I am so sorry your family had to endure this tragedy. May your writings bring healing to many broken souls. From one of your biggest fans, Susan
As we watch the sons of our friends (and some of our former students) become embroiled in what seems a useless war in the middle east this book is coming out in time to again remind us of what we should do to stop a waste of life. Douglas was a charming young man with hopes for a future. He never got that future life. Neither he nor his family had the chance to benefit from a bright adventure. I can imagine how painful this book was to write, and think it will be tough to read, but I will read it. We cannot let this happen again!
I know this will be a heart-breaker, but it’s on my list, and I’m counting the days until the release.
The contrast between the two photos of your brother is gut-wrenching. This is going to be such an important book, coming out at a time when the possibility of another fruitless war looms.
Oh, Doug. How I remember you as such a young man, filled with hope and a life ahead. War is horrible. Period. And your mother – the love that shines in her face and eyes, and the sorrow that followed. I pray we spare other young people, their mothers and fathers and siblings – the grief and sorrow of useless wars.
Such a great review and perfect timing for the release of this book.