A Shau Valor—American Combat Operations in the Valley of Death 1963-1971

[Longhorn92]

A Shau ValorAmerican Combat Operations in the Valley of Death 1963-1971, by Tom Yarborough, is a concise history of US operations in the A Shau Valley during the Vietnam War. Its a readable story that successfully blends historical facts with individual heroic actions in the valley.

 

The author contends that the US possessed neither tactical nor strategic vision in its conduct of operations in the A Shau, a point he convincingly argues. The decisions made are both perplexing and maddening but do nothing to minimize the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the A Shau. The valorous actions of so many who served in the A Shau are highlighted and are very inspiring.

 

Many well known battles are covered, including Nam Dong, Hamburger Hill and Ripcord, plus SOG operations.

 

While not a deeply academic or scholarly work, the book does enough to show the flawed approach to operations in the A Shau. I recommend the book to anyone interested in Vietnam.