Although it probably would have been better to have read the author's earlier work before this book, Wilkins' account of the string of actions that netted the the 1st Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division a Presidential Unit Citation makes for compelling reading. Basically conducting a spoiling offensive to keep incoming regular forces from North Vietnam off-balance, the result was that the sub-units of the brigade gave the NVA regulars the fight that they wanted, the opportunity to destroy these sub-units in detail with superior manpower. It was only the weight of American firepower, and the sheer cussedness of the American riflemen, that staved off disaster. The question I come away with upon reading this book regards the author's long-term vision: Is the goal to write a cycle that documents how the very good army with which Washington entered the war deteriorated over time into a broken army? ( )

I just finish reading Nine Days in May by Warren K. Wilkins. It wasn’t easy. It is the story of the battles of the 4th infantry division on the Cambodian border of Vietnam. It is a story of extraordinary bravery. But also of gruesome hardships and brutality. I didn’t serve in the military, but I am thankful for the service of those who did and do. After reading Wilkins book I have more, much more, respect and appreciation for who served and fought in Vietnam. So many lost their lives or sufferer gave injuries. All the survivors must have found their lives changed forever. ( )