The author recounts his experiences as a young pilot flying an armed UH-1E with Marine Observation Squadron Six in Vietnam. The memoir offers descriptions of squadron life in the early stages of the war, and little-known details about the missions, operations, and living conditions at the author's base in Ky Ha shortly before the Tet Offensive. Chapters on the young lieutenant's deployment on board USS Princeton offer a look at shipboard operations in the mid-1960s. B&w historical photos are included. Ballentine is retired from the Marine Corps and now teaches college. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)