What Our Readers are Saying
I must say that even though my husband is credited in the title of this book, its attraction for me has been the individual stories, told from the hearts of the members of the 11th Cavalry Regiment’s Aero Rifle Platoon – in candid and gripping detail. These riveting personal accounts have brought to this civilian reader my first real appreciation of the dangerous role and unstinting commitment to their assignments, of those who served in the unit known as “the ARP”. Their individual stories bring these soldiers’ wartime experiences right into our laps, leaving us feeling that we have been right there with them, risks and all. Most affecting, at least for this reader, beyond the accounts of missions served under dangerous conditions with inevitable casualties, was the caring camaraderie amongst and between the members of the ARP. This stands out as the book’s strongest message. These soldiers served their country’s mission with passion, but it was fueled by the genuine brotherhood that they shared, throughout. They have never forgotten their comrades and have made them matter to us, as well. Their late commander, George Smith Patton, would be deeply grateful.
Finally, remembrances of that time so long ago by the men who were there. The Aero Rifle Platoon are an elite group of US soldiers who fought in Vietnam and Cambodia during the 1960s and 70s. The last generation to be drafted these men volunteered for ARP duties. Theirs were not textbook ways, oh no! No textbook could have prepared them for what they faced in, and above, the jungles of Southeast Asia. Their stories showcase the daring, determination, and quick wits that earned the enlisted men of the ARPs the admiration (and protection) of their commanding officers. No doubt ARPs turned the tide for US success against the TET offensive of 1969 as told in Ed Cook’s own story. Patton’s Boys offers a rare look into the life and times of a special kind of soldier in an entertaining, easy to read, format.
Just got done reading Pattons Boys. Wow! Kinda took the wind out of me… Great read, lots and lots of emotions. Most likely won’t get any sleep tonight. I am sure proud to have been in the 11th Cavalry and one of the ARPs.
I got “Patton’s Boys” in mail today. Finished it already. Great book, glad you and Ed did this. I was with ACT 70-71 so many of these stories I was there for, but they filled in details I wasn’t aware of at the time or had forgotten. I just found about the ACT reunions 2 years ago and attended the last two. That’s where I found out about your books, getting “Old Soldier” at silent auction. I know your life is full with your boys and your wife’s illness. But I’m sure if you do a second Patton’s Boys you will have a waiting list of readers, and more willing to summit stories after some read these. Thanks again to You and Ed.
Patton’s Boys is a great read that is done with a great format. Couldn’t put it down!
I got my friend Jack Stoddard’s book a couple days ago and read a little each night. It’s called “Patton’s Boys”… Wow…. Jacks opening blew me away… From his other books, I knew a little about his Nam experience but had no idea… If the rest is the same, and I am sure it will be, what a scary ride this will be… Thanks Jack. I was in the military throughout the war, training student pilots so I never had to go to Nam. I sincerely mean it when I say I’m proud to know you and… Thank you.