The descriptions of what it was like for the grunts on the ground (insects, sweat, athlete's foot, snipers, friendly fire, etc.) and of parking a helicopter into a hot landing zone (in the middle of enemy positions) were as fascinating as they were terrifying. Ranks up there with Professor Ambrose's descriptions of soldier's experiences in WWII. Zaffiri also gets instant credibility as a combatant in Viet Nam. He knows what he's talking about, and it comes out without being judgmental or arrogant. Even gives a breakdown of what constitutes various military fighting units, and a small history of the 101st.
Don't be fooled: the Americans [...] lost many casualties over a nine-day, ten-assault period, suffered incredibly at the hands of equally determined and expertly trained NVA and sappers (they tied themselves to trees...virtual suicide!), and at the end of the engagement gave it right back up to the enemy by just abandoning the position.
For those who experienced it, there was no victory, but no shame, either. An excellent book on so many levels. Hawks and Doves alike can get something important out of it. Reads well if you're a military buff or not. Read the book, then rent the movie. In military parlance, it's "Outstanding."