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A Gracious Enemy #1
A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume One
Volume One is mainly about the second Indochina war (Vietnam War) and is set during the period from 1770 to 1975. It includes political intrigues in Paris, London, Washington and Canberra. It is told in story form and uses 470 pages to tell the story of Australians involved in Vietnam and how most Aussie combat soldiers did not want to be doing the job they were sent to complete. however, Aussie soldiers did their duties to the best of their abilities. Volume One ends with Richard Nixon's War and the debacle of the Americans quickly leaving after suffering unacceptable numbers of war deaths. (Over 52,000 KIA).
Volume Two Has been completed and is available from starts with a recap of Ricard Nixon's War followed by the Vietnamese invasion of Kampuchea after which the Pol Pot Regime fled into the jungle. That is followed by the stories of the Vietnamese "Boat People" and their trials and problems of coming to Australia and becoming Aussie citizens and successful business people after many hard times. In both the case of Volume Two, the eBook edition of Volume Two shall be released on the 7th of October 2022.
Kind regards - Michael G Kramer OMIEAust.
Volume Two Has been completed and is available from starts with a recap of Ricard Nixon's War followed by the Vietnamese invasion of Kampuchea after which the Pol Pot Regime fled into the jungle. That is followed by the stories of the Vietnamese "Boat People" and their trials and problems of coming to Australia and becoming Aussie citizens and successful business people after many hard times. In both the case of Volume Two, the eBook edition of Volume Two shall be released on the 7th of October 2022.
Kind regards - Michael G Kramer OMIEAust.
470 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2022
5 people are currently reading
15.9k people want to read
About the author
Michael G. Kramer
11books6,826followersServed Australian army, including war service in the Vietnam War in 1968 - 1969. Came home to public shunning of Vietnam Veterans and discrimination against Vietnam Veterans by potential employers. This resulted in the setting up of the first business, (contract fencing) because I could not get a job. In due course, I studied for Advanced Diploma of Egineering Technology, Associate Degree of Civil Engineering and I am now doing my Arts degree. It was during the study of the arts degree that I became interested in the history of Northern Europe and Germania during the times of Julius and Augustus Ceasar. This led to researching and writing of the second book entitled 'For the Love of Armin'. Currently studying Bachelor of Construction Management.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 14, 2022
A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume One by Michael G. Kramer OMIEAu gives a different view of Vietnam than Americans are used to hearing. Kramer brings history alive as he gives an account of the background of the Vietnamese people, and what lead up to the famed Vietnam War. Around a hundred years before the Vietnam War, the Vietnamese mastered guerilla warfare because the French were actively attacking them to gain their tin, gold, and silver. The French represented a larger and more powerful army, but they became a people united. I loved how the author gives a more in-depth view of the political leaders and decisions than in most books. I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical literature. The editing is the only thing about this book I would change.
August 1, 2022
A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume One by Michael G Kramer OMIEAu is a formidable book and one that proves to be challenging in the depth and scope of the writing. The author indicates that he uses writing to deal with PTSD caused by his service as an Australian in the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment. Serving in the Vietnam war in 1968 and 1969, the author recounts some of his personal experiences. In addition, there is a ton of history here, as the author starts the book with the foundation of history in this part of the world, being Indochina. A relevant book, and one worth diving into to learn more about the Vietnam war and its ramifications on history and the world.
July 21, 2022
We get to witness a unique perspective that is often lost on US citizens regarding the Vietnam war. More often than not, we talk about the war, loss, and politics, but rarely do we see how other countries, like Australia, were impacted due to their involvement. This isn’t the first time Kramer has knocked it out of the park with solid writing and research.
This isn’t my first Kramer book, and I doubt it’ll be my last. He does a beautiful job painting a historical landscape with his books and sharing factual and insightful perspectives in a way that keeps the book moving. The book runs a bit long, but it doesn’t feel that way as you go through it. The details of the war and the negative impacts it has long and short term on everyone…even those that aren’t directly involved…are a great reflection on how our past should be studied so we can provide a more stable and reliable future. I really enjoy this author. Definitely worth your time to check out!
This isn’t my first Kramer book, and I doubt it’ll be my last. He does a beautiful job painting a historical landscape with his books and sharing factual and insightful perspectives in a way that keeps the book moving. The book runs a bit long, but it doesn’t feel that way as you go through it. The details of the war and the negative impacts it has long and short term on everyone…even those that aren’t directly involved…are a great reflection on how our past should be studied so we can provide a more stable and reliable future. I really enjoy this author. Definitely worth your time to check out!
August 3, 2022
If you would like to learn about the real Vietnam war then I would recommend reading A Gracious Enemy and After the War. Not only does the book provide the history of the region leading up to and including the war, and is presented in an engaging way, but it also gives personal accounts of the veterans that actually served and the impact it had on the people involved directly and indirectly. I found this added a layer of perspective from many different points of view and therefore gave me a greater understanding than I otherwise would have had.
Highly recommended. A very informative read indeed!
Highly recommended. A very informative read indeed!
December 5, 2023
I have read a lot of books about wars in the world history and I must say Vietnam is the one I’ve read the least about but everything I have read has been from the viewpoint of The BRITs and Americans so to read a Gracious Enemy, After The War by Michael G Kramer. Turned out to be a refreshing take on the opinions of Australians why they got in the war what they thought while there and how although push to their limits still did their job as true heroes do. Just like the title Mr. Kramer is respectful to the perceived enemy who I think in most peoples opinions nowadays know were truly the victims that was the Vietnamese people. It ends where the second book pretty much starts up with the fall of the regime I found this book to be very interesting and everything I wanted to know I feel I know that and more I love Mr. Cramer‘s books and this one did not disappoint. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
June 17, 2022
An excellent platform from which to remember, and reconsider, aggression
Australian author Michael Kramer earned degrees in architecture and engineering, and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in the Vietnam War during 1968 and 1969, and has published eight novels - FULL CIRCLE FOR MICK, FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN, NOW WHAT?!! (and the version, ANGLO-SAXON INVASION), A GRACIOUS ENEMY, A CASTLE OF DOOMSDAY, ARMINIUS AND THUSNELDA VERSUS ROME, and now A GRACIOUS ENEMY & AFTER THE WAR.
Having read and enjoyed all of Michael Kramer’s books, it is with some assurance that this reader underlines the importance of his contribution to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for history. His meticulous analysis of the history of Indochina and Vietnam in particular provides insights rarely shared as well as important information to consider about the wages of war!
The complex plot is well condensed by the author – ‘The Allied war effort in Indochina (the French colonies of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam) was a war of aggression which allowed many millions of US dollars of arms sales. All allied service men that I came into contact with did their duties to the best of their abilities. As an Australian serving with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam during 1968 - 1969, I feel that it is my duty to inform readers of how the Australian infantry soldiers saw the war and how they felt about fighting the Vietnamese. Volume One covers events in Indochina from 1770 to 1975, when the Americans withdrew from Vietnam after loosing more than 50,000 war dead. After the American withdrawal in 1975, the Vietnamese Army invaded Kampuchea and removed the Pol Pot Regime from power!’
Michael includes his view on Nixon’s ‘Vietnamisation’ – ‘It appeared that in his mind, Nixon’s policy of ‘Vietnamisaton’ would be easily achieved by turning the war over to the Indochinese people and setting things up in such a way that Asian people would be fighting other Asian people for the benefit of Americans. This course of action would help ensure that the USA continued to be dominant in Asia. By so doing it would only be the colour of the skin of casualties what would be different.’ It is that degree of history so seldom presented that makes this not only a fine book, but also a compendium of the evils of war – that error of aggression that reminds us to be alert to future tactics.
Fine writing, well considered research, and a sense of immediacy make this a fine history book – and novel.
Australian author Michael Kramer earned degrees in architecture and engineering, and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in the Vietnam War during 1968 and 1969, and has published eight novels - FULL CIRCLE FOR MICK, FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN, NOW WHAT?!! (and the version, ANGLO-SAXON INVASION), A GRACIOUS ENEMY, A CASTLE OF DOOMSDAY, ARMINIUS AND THUSNELDA VERSUS ROME, and now A GRACIOUS ENEMY & AFTER THE WAR.
Having read and enjoyed all of Michael Kramer’s books, it is with some assurance that this reader underlines the importance of his contribution to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for history. His meticulous analysis of the history of Indochina and Vietnam in particular provides insights rarely shared as well as important information to consider about the wages of war!
The complex plot is well condensed by the author – ‘The Allied war effort in Indochina (the French colonies of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam) was a war of aggression which allowed many millions of US dollars of arms sales. All allied service men that I came into contact with did their duties to the best of their abilities. As an Australian serving with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam during 1968 - 1969, I feel that it is my duty to inform readers of how the Australian infantry soldiers saw the war and how they felt about fighting the Vietnamese. Volume One covers events in Indochina from 1770 to 1975, when the Americans withdrew from Vietnam after loosing more than 50,000 war dead. After the American withdrawal in 1975, the Vietnamese Army invaded Kampuchea and removed the Pol Pot Regime from power!’
Michael includes his view on Nixon’s ‘Vietnamisation’ – ‘It appeared that in his mind, Nixon’s policy of ‘Vietnamisaton’ would be easily achieved by turning the war over to the Indochinese people and setting things up in such a way that Asian people would be fighting other Asian people for the benefit of Americans. This course of action would help ensure that the USA continued to be dominant in Asia. By so doing it would only be the colour of the skin of casualties what would be different.’ It is that degree of history so seldom presented that makes this not only a fine book, but also a compendium of the evils of war – that error of aggression that reminds us to be alert to future tactics.
Fine writing, well considered research, and a sense of immediacy make this a fine history book – and novel.
July 14, 2022
Author Michael G Kramer states that “As an Australian serving with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam during 1968 - 1969, I feel that it is my duty to inform readers of how the Australian infantry soldiers saw the war and how they felt about fighting the Vietnamese”.
A Gracious Enemy & After the War is a very well-written book told by someone who shares his own experiences and those of some of the other veterans who actually served. The author has clearly also done a lot of research on the history of the war with Vietnam, which, for me made this an even more enjoyable read because I could have confidence that it was all grounded in facts. A very eye-opening and enjoyable book, well worth reading.
A Gracious Enemy & After the War is a very well-written book told by someone who shares his own experiences and those of some of the other veterans who actually served. The author has clearly also done a lot of research on the history of the war with Vietnam, which, for me made this an even more enjoyable read because I could have confidence that it was all grounded in facts. A very eye-opening and enjoyable book, well worth reading.
April 29, 2024
Interesting topic. Poorly edited.
November 20, 2023
A voyage that’s as enlightening as it is emotionally stirring. The pages are filled with the echoes of a past that’s both distant yet eerily resonant with today’s world. Our journey starts with the last American soldier's exit from Vietnam, a moment captured with a raw authenticity that almost transports you to the chaotic grounds of the American embassy in Saigon. As we traverse through the years, we find ourselves amidst the rugged terrains of Kampuchea, feeling the tremors of Vietnam's invasion that ousted Pol Pot from the helm. Kramer doesn’t just tell a tale; he opens a window to the souls of the Vietnamese veterans, whose battle scars tell stories of a war whose tremors were felt long after the last gunshot echoed. The narrative doesn’t race through history; it takes a deliberate pace, letting you soak in the essence of each event, each decision, and each repercussion that shaped the course of nations. The writing style is crisp, yet laden with a depth that provokes thought, ignites empathy, and kindles a spark of understanding about the complex tapestry of war, politics, and human resilience. It’s not just a book; it’s a journey through the annals of history, narrated with a finesse that’s both educational and emotionally evocative."
June 20, 2023
If you're interested in trailing the events of the Vietnam War from beginning to end, Michael Kramer has put together a story-like piece doing exactly that. It was an interesting start to read about how the Tay Son Brothers made an impact at that time.
The book weighs rather heavily on Australians who were involved in the Vietnam War. I highly recommend reading the author's words at the beginning of the book from his personal situation to give further depth to his understanding especially from that perspective. Kramer makes it clear of his intent to narrate in a manner that's free from political grip. Personally, this somewhat slant-free approach makes the book even more worth reading, particularly for avid fans of historical non-fiction.
Other than the fact that the book is compact with details without compromising readability. My only contrary note would be that this truly is a historical book. If you're seeking for infusions of insights into historical events, this isn't that kind of read.
The book weighs rather heavily on Australians who were involved in the Vietnam War. I highly recommend reading the author's words at the beginning of the book from his personal situation to give further depth to his understanding especially from that perspective. Kramer makes it clear of his intent to narrate in a manner that's free from political grip. Personally, this somewhat slant-free approach makes the book even more worth reading, particularly for avid fans of historical non-fiction.
Other than the fact that the book is compact with details without compromising readability. My only contrary note would be that this truly is a historical book. If you're seeking for infusions of insights into historical events, this isn't that kind of read.
April 24, 2023
A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume One by Michael Kramer is a captivating and well-written historical novel that tells a more well-rounded view of Vietnam than I have been used to hearing. The book is divided into two parts, the first of which focuses on events in Indochina from 1770 to 1975, and the second Volume deals with events inside and outside of Vietnam after 1975.
The authors writing is powerful and evocative, and he does an excellent job of bringing the facts and settings to life. The book is filled with vivid descriptions of the battlefields and the soldiers' daily struggles, as well as intimate portraits of the soldiers themselves.
Overall, A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume 1 is an excellent historical fiction novel that is both informative and engaging. Whether you're a fan of history, or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, I think this book is definitely worth a read.
The authors writing is powerful and evocative, and he does an excellent job of bringing the facts and settings to life. The book is filled with vivid descriptions of the battlefields and the soldiers' daily struggles, as well as intimate portraits of the soldiers themselves.
Overall, A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume 1 is an excellent historical fiction novel that is both informative and engaging. Whether you're a fan of history, or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, I think this book is definitely worth a read.
June 16, 2023
If you think war is all about fighting then there is things beyond our imagination. These exquisite details provided by the author gravitated me towards this read. I was caught hold by the intricate details provided for the surfacing war used as the main plot in this book.
This was my first read by author Mr Michael Kramer and I have already ordered the next book of the series as I was hooked with this read.
Vol 1 explicitly covers the events associated with war in Indo-china from 1770 to 1975, when the Americans withdrew from Vietnam after loosing more than 50,000 war dead after a velour fight. After the American withdrawal in 1975, the Vietnamese Army invaded Kampuchea and removed the Pol Pot Regime from power.
This doesn't end here and the events continues in the vol 2.
The author has put all the efforts to give a detailed information of the war and that will be standing out quality of this book.
This was my first read by author Mr Michael Kramer and I have already ordered the next book of the series as I was hooked with this read.
Vol 1 explicitly covers the events associated with war in Indo-china from 1770 to 1975, when the Americans withdrew from Vietnam after loosing more than 50,000 war dead after a velour fight. After the American withdrawal in 1975, the Vietnamese Army invaded Kampuchea and removed the Pol Pot Regime from power.
This doesn't end here and the events continues in the vol 2.
The author has put all the efforts to give a detailed information of the war and that will be standing out quality of this book.
July 13, 2023
Gracious Enemy & After the War, Volume 1 by Michael Kramer, is volume one in a two-part series. The author describes the Vietnam War from the perspective of Australian infantry soldiers, which I found to be quite intriguing. I really liked that the author himself is an Australian Vietnam Veteran and is sharing his own experiences; it is great to hear his perspective and experiences. Reading this book helped me learn so much more about the Vietnam war- the good, the bad, the ugly- all of it as the author did not hold back. I appreciate that he didn’t sugar coat it as I believe it is important that we learn what people truly went through. The book is well written and well researched. I look forward to reading volume two and learning even more about the war. I love history and I have studied the Vietnam war, but it was mostly from the perspective of Americans so again I truly appreciate learning about it from the perspective of Australian soldiers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2023
In A Gracious Enemy and After the War volume 1 author Michael Kramer informs the reader of what it was like to be an Australian serving in the Vietnamese war. He combines original research and knowledge to provide us with an insight into the second Indochina war and gives a concise history of the build up to, and including the Vietnam War as seen by all sides, not just from the American perspective. This book is a compelling reminder that the Vietnam War did not just affect America and Vietnam but Australia, and many other nearby countries too, and so many of their people.
A thought-provoking and fascinating insight into the effects of this war told from a different perspective. Highly recommended.
A thought-provoking and fascinating insight into the effects of this war told from a different perspective. Highly recommended.
September 21, 2023
A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume 1 – Michael Kramer, takes a deep look into the Indochina wars, and what I liked most, is that the author gave a fresh perspective, providing information on things like the US’s significant involvement in arms dealings and the inclusion of firsthand accounts as having served in Vietnam, the author weaves his personal journey into the pages too.
The book takes a deeper look into the “human” cost of war and conflict showing the repercussions of political manoeuvres and shifts in society. Kramer has obviously done an insurmountable amount of research that adds weight and in my opinion it’s the perfect book for those new to the topic of the Indochina wars.
A noteworthy addition to my book shelf.
The book takes a deeper look into the “human” cost of war and conflict showing the repercussions of political manoeuvres and shifts in society. Kramer has obviously done an insurmountable amount of research that adds weight and in my opinion it’s the perfect book for those new to the topic of the Indochina wars.
A noteworthy addition to my book shelf.
June 18, 2023
This brings the reader a new perspective on the Vietnam War, and events leading up to it (going as far back as 200 years before the war). I found Kramer’s writing to be easy to read, insightful, and interesting. I know that part of this at least is based off his own experiences, and I can’t imagine how hard it was to share that, but I’m grateful he did. Although the subject is less than pleasant (war is never pretty), this book was very enjoyable to read, and I learned quite a bit. Whether you’re a history buff, or only casually interested, this is a must-read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War.
October 8, 2023
Oh, what a dive into the depths of war-torn Indochina Michael G. Kramer takes us on in A Gracious Enemy and After the War Volume One. I felt that the narrative, rich with historical essence, gracefully navigated through the poignant waters of a soldier's duty and a nation's turmoil. The narrative carved through the years 1770 to 1975, revealing the grim hues of the Vietnam war, especially from an Australian lens. Enjoyed a lot of the themes, particularly the insight into the Australian infantry's perspective. I hope you like it as it offers a narrative far-removed from the common tales of the Vietnam war era.
May 8, 2023
Beginning in the late 18th Century, the book tells the story of Vietnam, and how corrupt politicians conspired with the French to colonize the area. Then, as other countries started to be concerned with communist activities in Southeast Asia, the book continues through to the 2oth Century ending with the end of the War in Vietnam.
As a young child when the Vietnam War was happening, I was not familiar with the past history of the country and what led to the war. This book provides an understanding of that, albeit with conversations that were added to humanize the story.
As a young child when the Vietnam War was happening, I was not familiar with the past history of the country and what led to the war. This book provides an understanding of that, albeit with conversations that were added to humanize the story.
July 13, 2023
Give me all the books about war!!! This book was amazing, and so different from the ones I usually read. This is about a group of very brave Australian men who are sent to the Vietnam War to fight even when they didn’t want to.
This book is very exquisite since the author has said several times, that writing helps him with PTSD, when he served in the Vietnam War between 1968 and 1969.
A book that is full of history and very interesting details that other books don’t take the time to mention, so this for me is a winner.
This book is very exquisite since the author has said several times, that writing helps him with PTSD, when he served in the Vietnam War between 1968 and 1969.
A book that is full of history and very interesting details that other books don’t take the time to mention, so this for me is a winner.
September 20, 2023
Michael G Kramer writing style is outstanding. The Author takes you through a high descriptive journey that will truly leave you with food for thought. Very enjoyable read!
The characters of the book interwine together perfectly. This book is a real page turner. It opens your mind to a range of possibilities, like no other.
This book is highly recommend.
The characters of the book interwine together perfectly. This book is a real page turner. It opens your mind to a range of possibilities, like no other.
This book is highly recommend.
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August 22, 2023Travis
September 15, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! The story was so engaging, and I couldn't help but become attached to the characters. It's a feel-good read that leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling
September 19, 2023
The dialogue in this book was so authentic. It made the characters feel real, and I found myself deeply invested in their lives.
October 10, 2023
Nice story
October 24, 2023
This book is a work of art. The prose is lyrical, and the themes are deeply moving. It's a literary gem that deserves all the praise it receives.
January 15, 2024
Interesting topic. Poorly edited.
July 5, 2023
A Gracious Enemy & After the War Volume One by Michael G Kramer is a Vietnam War novel. This is a slow and steady paced book but intriguing enough to keep you going. With the events set in Indochina from 1770-1975 you get a great representation of the Vietnam war. I found this to be education. If you enjoy war novels this is a must read for you.
June 17, 2022
An excellent platform from which to remember, and reconsider, aggression
Australian author Michael Kramer earned degrees in architecture and engineering, and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in the Vietnam War during 1968 and 1969, and has published eight novels - FULL CIRCLE FOR MICK, FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN, NOW WHAT?!! (and the version, ANGLO-SAXON INVASION), A GRACIOUS ENEMY, A CASTLE OF DOOMSDAY, ARMINIUS AND THUSNELDA VERSUS ROME, and now A GRACIOUS ENEMY & AFTER THE WAR.
Having read and enjoyed all of Michael Kramer’s books, it is with some assurance that this reader underlines the importance of his contribution to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for history. His meticulous analysis of the history of Indochina and Vietnam in particular provides insights rarely shared as well as important information to consider about the wages of war!
The complex plot is well condensed by the author – ‘The Allied war effort in Indochina (the French colonies of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam) was a war of aggression which allowed many millions of US dollars of arms sales. All allied service men that I came into contact with did their duties to the best of their abilities. As an Australian serving with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam during 1968 - 1969, I feel that it is my duty to inform readers of how the Australian infantry soldiers saw the war and how they felt about fighting the Vietnamese. Volume One covers events in Indochina from 1770 to 1975, when the Americans withdrew from Vietnam after loosing more than 50,000 war dead. After the American withdrawal in 1975, the Vietnamese Army invaded Kampuchea and removed the Pol Pot Regime from power!’
Michael includes his view on Nixon’s ‘Vietnamisation’ – ‘It appeared that in his mind, Nixon’s policy of ‘Vietnamisaton’ would be easily achieved by turning the war over to the Indochinese people and setting things up in such a way that Asian people would be fighting other Asian people for the benefit of Americans. This course of action would help ensure that the USA continued to be dominant in Asia. By so doing it would only be the colour of the skin of casualties what would be different.’ It is that degree of history so seldom presented that makes this not only a fine book, but also a compendium of the evils of war – that error of aggression that reminds us to be alert to future tactics.
Fine writing, well considered research, and a sense of immediacy make this a fine history book – and novel
Australian author Michael Kramer earned degrees in architecture and engineering, and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in the Vietnam War during 1968 and 1969, and has published eight novels - FULL CIRCLE FOR MICK, FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN, NOW WHAT?!! (and the version, ANGLO-SAXON INVASION), A GRACIOUS ENEMY, A CASTLE OF DOOMSDAY, ARMINIUS AND THUSNELDA VERSUS ROME, and now A GRACIOUS ENEMY & AFTER THE WAR.
Having read and enjoyed all of Michael Kramer’s books, it is with some assurance that this reader underlines the importance of his contribution to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for history. His meticulous analysis of the history of Indochina and Vietnam in particular provides insights rarely shared as well as important information to consider about the wages of war!
The complex plot is well condensed by the author – ‘The Allied war effort in Indochina (the French colonies of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam) was a war of aggression which allowed many millions of US dollars of arms sales. All allied service men that I came into contact with did their duties to the best of their abilities. As an Australian serving with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam during 1968 - 1969, I feel that it is my duty to inform readers of how the Australian infantry soldiers saw the war and how they felt about fighting the Vietnamese. Volume One covers events in Indochina from 1770 to 1975, when the Americans withdrew from Vietnam after loosing more than 50,000 war dead. After the American withdrawal in 1975, the Vietnamese Army invaded Kampuchea and removed the Pol Pot Regime from power!’
Michael includes his view on Nixon’s ‘Vietnamisation’ – ‘It appeared that in his mind, Nixon’s policy of ‘Vietnamisaton’ would be easily achieved by turning the war over to the Indochinese people and setting things up in such a way that Asian people would be fighting other Asian people for the benefit of Americans. This course of action would help ensure that the USA continued to be dominant in Asia. By so doing it would only be the colour of the skin of casualties what would be different.’ It is that degree of history so seldom presented that makes this not only a fine book, but also a compendium of the evils of war – that error of aggression that reminds us to be alert to future tactics.
Fine writing, well considered research, and a sense of immediacy make this a fine history book – and novel
June 13, 2024
A Gracious Enemy & After the War' is a well-written and informative book that provides a detailed account of the Australian involvement in the Vietnam War. Volume One covers the period from 1770 to 1975, mainly focusing on the second Indochina War, while Volume Two picks up where the first volume left off, covering events such as the Vietnamese invasion of Kampuchea and the experiences of Vietnamese "Boat People" in Australia.
The author shares his own experiences and those of other veterans who served during the war, providing a personal and insightful perspective. The book is also well-researched, providing a comprehensive understanding of the political intrigues in Paris, London, Washington, and Canberra during the war.
The author does not shy away from the harsh realities of war, highlighting how many Aussie combat soldiers did not want to be involved in the conflict but still carried out their duties to the best of their abilities. The book also sheds light on the experiences of the Vietnamese people, particularly the struggles and challenges faced by those who became "Boat People" and eventually settled in Australia.
You might like to check out more similar books
The author shares his own experiences and those of other veterans who served during the war, providing a personal and insightful perspective. The book is also well-researched, providing a comprehensive understanding of the political intrigues in Paris, London, Washington, and Canberra during the war.
The author does not shy away from the harsh realities of war, highlighting how many Aussie combat soldiers did not want to be involved in the conflict but still carried out their duties to the best of their abilities. The book also sheds light on the experiences of the Vietnamese people, particularly the struggles and challenges faced by those who became "Boat People" and eventually settled in Australia.
You might like to check out more similar books
January 29, 2024
A Gracious Enemy & After the War, Volume 1 by Michael Kramer, is the first volume in which the author describes the Vietnam War from the perspective of Australian infantry soldiers. This book focuses on the events in Indochina from 1770 to 1975. As the author was a participant in the war, the book is a window that presents a unique perspective on a painful and eventful past. As the author says, "a book written in the language of the soldier."
As a historical piece of work, I had enough material to read for days, and although this kind of work is not my first choice, especially when all the Vietnamese names of places and people made my brain and me question if I could read, surprisingly, I enjoyed it. One of the aspects that I liked and found interesting about the book is how the author did not sweeten the situations and described the events as they were, from the corruption of the politicians to presenting the concerns of those that did not agree entirely with the events. I like how the author provided dialogue and a voice to the people and soldiers that you cannot find in other books about the Vietnam War. I really recommend this book, as it presents the insights of a soldier.
As a historical piece of work, I had enough material to read for days, and although this kind of work is not my first choice, especially when all the Vietnamese names of places and people made my brain and me question if I could read, surprisingly, I enjoyed it. One of the aspects that I liked and found interesting about the book is how the author did not sweeten the situations and described the events as they were, from the corruption of the politicians to presenting the concerns of those that did not agree entirely with the events. I like how the author provided dialogue and a voice to the people and soldiers that you cannot find in other books about the Vietnam War. I really recommend this book, as it presents the insights of a soldier.
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