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MWSA Review
Bob Stockton fell back on his extensive career in the Navy to publish Volunteer: A Vietnam Odyssey. A compilation of his three previously published (and successful) novellas, the story follows a Navy sailor through his deployments during the Vietnam War. It is a work of fiction, but it is based on historical accounts and also the author's own experience.
The book has action, humor, and plenty of "liberty incidents" to make any vet reminisce fondly. I particularly liked the way the main character was very unassuming; he did some very important work, but to him he was just doing his job for his country, a sentiment to which many veterans can relate. It is an easy read that will spark many different memories for the intended audience.
Vietnam veterans, especially those from the Navy, will enjoy this book, as will any "tin can" sailor of the last fifty years or so.
Review by Rob Ballister (May 2021)
Author's Synopsis
Eighteen-year old Zack Martin is determined to leave his Lubbock home where he has endured ridicule and scorn from his abusive father. His mother’s recent death has given Zack the push to join the Navy where he is certain that he will find adventure – and test his courage by volunteering to serve in ships that will be sent into harm’s way in the emerging Vietnam conflict.
Author Bob Stockton has revised and consolidated his three earlier Vietnam War novellas – Mediterranean Suicide, Friendly Fire and The Third Tour into “Volunteer,” a re-written and re-formatted hard-hitting, fast-paced novel that places the reader directly in the heart of the action.
ISBN/ASIN: 9781662901560, B089PT1C9N
Book Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle
Review Genre: Fiction—Literary Fiction
Number of Pages: 439