From Vietnam to operation Welcome Home

by Mike Jackson, Karen Jackson

When Mike Jackson rose above the jungles of Vietnam one last time, it was aboard a charter flight home. With 210 missions piloting an O-2A as a forward air controller directing airstrikes for ground troops in trouble behind him, his joy turned to anger as he was “welcomed” with shrill insults from anti-war protesters at San Francisco International. That angry memory persisted throughout his Air Force career and beyond until he published Naked in Da Nang with Tara Dixon Engel in 2004. Buoyed by its warm reception, the authors began to think maybe it wasn’t too late for a real
“Welcome home!”

230 pages, Hardcover

Published December 14, 2022

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author with this name in the Goodreads database.

Reviews

[Chad Manske · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lt Col (Ret) Mike Jackson and his wife Karen take readers on an emotional journey through the complex and often misunderstood experiences of Vietnam War veterans. With a blend of personal anecdotes, historical context, and insightful analysis, Jackson delivers a powerful narrative that sheds light on the impact of war on soldiers and the challenges they face upon returning home. The book begins by delving into Jackson's own experiences during the Vietnam War. His vivid descriptions transport readers to the jungles of Vietnam, where they witness the horrors and uncertainties of war through his eyes. Jackson's candid storytelling evokes a deep sense of empathy, making it impossible not to feel a connection to the soldiers who endured unimaginable hardships. One of the book's strengths lies in its meticulous research and inclusion of historical background. Jackson provides an overview of the Vietnam War, offering readers a deeper understanding of the political, social, and cultural factors that shaped the conflict. By weaving in these details, he contextualizes the experiences of the soldiers and elucidates the profound impact the war had on American society. Moreover, "From Vietnam to Operation Welcome Home" addresses the often-neglected topic of the veterans' reception upon their return to the United States. Jackson examines the public's shifting perception of the war and how it influenced the treatment of Vietnam veterans. He explores the psychological toll of being labeled as the "lost generation" and the challenges veterans faced in readjusting to civilian life. Through interviews with fellow veterans, Jackson captures the raw emotions and struggles of those who felt misunderstood and alienated. The book's narrative is further enhanced by Jackson's compelling writing style. His prose is eloquent yet accessible, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the story. Each chapter unfolds with a sense of urgency and purpose, maintaining the reader's engagement throughout. Additionally, Jackson's use of personal reflections adds a layer of authenticity and vulnerability to the narrative, enhancing its emotional impact. Jackson's intentions to highlight the individual voices and human stories of Vietnam veterans are commendable. By bridging the gap between history and personal narrative, Jackson successfully humanizes the often-dehumanized soldiers. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the Vietnam War and the profound impact it had on those who fought and lived through it.

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome Home

A phrase not heard enough in the 60s and 70s. This is a continuation of the author’s story as told in “Naked in Da Nang.” Jackson was a FAC in Vietnam, but I only knew him as my squadron commander at OTS. When he retired from the Air Force, he began his journey to finally welcome home the forgotten Vietnam veterans, and eventually all veterans. Wonderful story! Thank you, Mike, and Welcome Home.