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Blackhorse Riders: A Desperate Last Stand, an Extraordinary Rescue Mission, and the Vietnam Battle America Forgot
Winner of the 2013 Silver Medal in History from the Military Writer's Society of America
Finalist, 2013 Colby Award
Winner of the 2012 USA Best Book Award for Military History
Philip Keith's Blackhorse Riders is the incredible true story of a brave military unit in Vietnam that risked everything to rescue an outnumbered troop under heavy fire―and the thirty-nine-year odyssey to recognize their bravery .
Deep in the jungles of Vietnam, Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry, the famed Blackhorse Regiment, was a specialized cavalry outfit equipped with tanks and armored assault vehicles. On the morning of March 26, 1970, they began hearing radio calls from an infantry unit four kilometers away that had stumbled into a hidden North Vietnamese Army stronghold. Outnumbered at least six to one, the ninety-man American company was quickly surrounded, pinned down, and fighting for its existence. Helicopters could not penetrate the dense jungle, and artillery and air support could not be targeted effectively. The company was fated to be worn down and eventually all killed or captured.
Overhearing the calls for help on his radio, Captain John Poindexter, Alpha Troop's twenty-five-year-old commander, realized that his outfit was the only hope for the trapped company. It just might be possible that they could "bust" enough jungle by nightfall to reach them. Not making the attempt was deemed unacceptable, so he ordered his men to "saddle up." With the courage and determination that makes legends out of ordinary men, they effected a daring rescue and fought a pitched battle―at considerable cost. Many brave deeds were done that day and Captain Poindexter tried to make sure his men were recognized for their actions.
Thirty years later Poindexter was made aware that his award recommendations and even the records of the battle had somehow gone missing. Thus began the second phase of this remarkable story: a "battle" to ensure that his brave men's accomplishments would never be forgotten again.
The full circle was completed when President Obama stepped to the podium on October 20, 2009, to award the Alpha Troop with the Presidential Unit Citation: the highest combat award that can be given to a military unit.
Finalist, 2013 Colby Award
Winner of the 2012 USA Best Book Award for Military History
Philip Keith's Blackhorse Riders is the incredible true story of a brave military unit in Vietnam that risked everything to rescue an outnumbered troop under heavy fire―and the thirty-nine-year odyssey to recognize their bravery .
Deep in the jungles of Vietnam, Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry, the famed Blackhorse Regiment, was a specialized cavalry outfit equipped with tanks and armored assault vehicles. On the morning of March 26, 1970, they began hearing radio calls from an infantry unit four kilometers away that had stumbled into a hidden North Vietnamese Army stronghold. Outnumbered at least six to one, the ninety-man American company was quickly surrounded, pinned down, and fighting for its existence. Helicopters could not penetrate the dense jungle, and artillery and air support could not be targeted effectively. The company was fated to be worn down and eventually all killed or captured.
Overhearing the calls for help on his radio, Captain John Poindexter, Alpha Troop's twenty-five-year-old commander, realized that his outfit was the only hope for the trapped company. It just might be possible that they could "bust" enough jungle by nightfall to reach them. Not making the attempt was deemed unacceptable, so he ordered his men to "saddle up." With the courage and determination that makes legends out of ordinary men, they effected a daring rescue and fought a pitched battle―at considerable cost. Many brave deeds were done that day and Captain Poindexter tried to make sure his men were recognized for their actions.
Thirty years later Poindexter was made aware that his award recommendations and even the records of the battle had somehow gone missing. Thus began the second phase of this remarkable story: a "battle" to ensure that his brave men's accomplishments would never be forgotten again.
The full circle was completed when President Obama stepped to the podium on October 20, 2009, to award the Alpha Troop with the Presidential Unit Citation: the highest combat award that can be given to a military unit.
368 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2012
91 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
Philip Keith
13 books22 followersPhil Keith earned a bachelor's degree in history from Harvard and has done master’s work at Long Island University and the Naval War College. After graduating from Harvard, Phil went directly into the Navy and became an aviator. During three tours in Vietnam, he served with distinction and was awarded, among other decorations, the Purple Heart, Air Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, and Navy Commendation Medal.
After his wartime service, Phil rose to the rank of Commander in the Naval Reserve and is also a licensed US Coast Guard Captain and Master’s Mate. As a business executive, he worked for two Fortune 500 firms and is a former assistant professor of business at Long Island University. Since 2007 Phil has been an adjunct instructor at the Rhode Island School of Design, teaching marketing and writing courses.
Phil has authored novels and nonfiction books. His Vietnam book, Blackhorse Riders, from St. Martin’s Press, won the 2012 award from USA Book News for Best Military Non-Fiction, was a finalist for the 2013 Colby Award, and earned a 2013 silver medal from Military Writers Society of America. His second Vietnam book, Fire Base Illingworth, released by St. Martin’s Press in 2013, was a Gold Medal winner from MWSA. His latest book (Zenith Press) is “Stay the Rising Sun,” an account of the crucial WW II Battle of the Coral Sea and the loss of the aircraft carrier USS Lexington in May, 1942. Phil is currently working on two more non-fiction books: one on the Civil War and another about Eugene Bullard, the first African-American fighter pilot. He has also completed fictional novel about Vietnam to be released in summer, 2017.
Phil serves on the planning board for the Town of Southampton, New York, and is a member of VFW Post 5350, American Legion Post 924, the Disabled American Veterans, and Vietnam Veterans of America. He writes an opinion column for the Press newspapers called "Mostly Right," and lives in Southampton with his partner Laura Lyons and son Pierce.
After his wartime service, Phil rose to the rank of Commander in the Naval Reserve and is also a licensed US Coast Guard Captain and Master’s Mate. As a business executive, he worked for two Fortune 500 firms and is a former assistant professor of business at Long Island University. Since 2007 Phil has been an adjunct instructor at the Rhode Island School of Design, teaching marketing and writing courses.
Phil has authored novels and nonfiction books. His Vietnam book, Blackhorse Riders, from St. Martin’s Press, won the 2012 award from USA Book News for Best Military Non-Fiction, was a finalist for the 2013 Colby Award, and earned a 2013 silver medal from Military Writers Society of America. His second Vietnam book, Fire Base Illingworth, released by St. Martin’s Press in 2013, was a Gold Medal winner from MWSA. His latest book (Zenith Press) is “Stay the Rising Sun,” an account of the crucial WW II Battle of the Coral Sea and the loss of the aircraft carrier USS Lexington in May, 1942. Phil is currently working on two more non-fiction books: one on the Civil War and another about Eugene Bullard, the first African-American fighter pilot. He has also completed fictional novel about Vietnam to be released in summer, 2017.
Phil serves on the planning board for the Town of Southampton, New York, and is a member of VFW Post 5350, American Legion Post 924, the Disabled American Veterans, and Vietnam Veterans of America. He writes an opinion column for the Press newspapers called "Mostly Right," and lives in Southampton with his partner Laura Lyons and son Pierce.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 25, 2016
I won't say too much about this book. I recommend that it be read by anyone who has an interest in the history of this period. I especially recommend it to anyone who's picture of Vietnam and Nam vets is formed by some of the movies that came out of that period.
This is sadly a little known battle that somehow "fell into the cracks of history". many of the people who participated in this battle were somehow "lost" and only received their decorations after the battle was "rediscovered" and they were lobbied for.
This is a story of brothers in the heat of battle and what in fiction would be called a daring rescue and stand.
I drop it one star because the writer makes some small but annoying errors (for example he says the AK-47 is a "semiautomatic" weapon. It's an assault rifle that is more effective used on full automatic).
Still I can recommend this book.
This is sadly a little known battle that somehow "fell into the cracks of history". many of the people who participated in this battle were somehow "lost" and only received their decorations after the battle was "rediscovered" and they were lobbied for.
This is a story of brothers in the heat of battle and what in fiction would be called a daring rescue and stand.
I drop it one star because the writer makes some small but annoying errors (for example he says the AK-47 is a "semiautomatic" weapon. It's an assault rifle that is more effective used on full automatic).
Still I can recommend this book.
November 18, 2025
I approached Blackhorse Riders: A Desperate Last Stand, an Extraordinary Rescue Mission, and the Vietnam Battle America Forgot with a built-in reluctance — I typically steer clear of non-fiction audiobooks, preferring the tactile turn of pages and the quiet rhythm of reading. But here I made an exception, and I’m very glad I did. The audio version, narrated by Dick Hill, brought this story alive in a way that complemented Keith’s craft rather than merely translating it.
Keith’s achievement is impressive: combat is notoriously difficult to convey in prose (or audio) without devolving into confusion, abstraction, or mere glorification. But he succeeds. His account of the March 26, 1970 battle along the Cambodian border—where elements of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (“Blackhorse Regiment”) thrust into jungle to rescue a stranded infantry company of the 1st Cavalry Division—is rendered with clarity, context, and empathy. As one professional review observes: “A fine, precisely detailed record of an obscure but nasty battle … in which heroism was forgotten even more quickly than the war itself.”
Keith doesn’t simply narrate the firefight; he sets up the terrain (dense triple-canopy jungle), the equipment (tanks, personnel carriers, howitzers) and the men involved so that when the action starts, you’re already in the moment. The urgency of rescue amid impossibly dense jungle, the way conventional air or artillery support can’t simply be summoned, the slow, brutal grind through forest and fire—Keith reconstructs it all. One review notes that the author interviewed dozens of survivors and dug into official records to produce “an overdue tribute” to the men involved.
And then there’s Dick Hill’s narration. I found his voice to be just as much part of what made this exception to my rule worthwhile. There’s a storyteller quality to his delivery, which helps ground the intensity of the material—when description and action escalate, his pacing and tone carry the listener rather than burdening them with dense prose. With many audiobooks I’ve felt the narration gets in the way; here it enhanced the immersion.
What I especially appreciated: Keith doesn’t just stop at the battle. He follows the men home, gives context to their lives afterward, and reminds the reader/listener that the story is not purely about tactical movement or jungle engagements. It is about people, memory, recognition — how this “forgotten” battle finally resulted in the Presidential Unit Citation decades later.
In terms of critiques: if one were looking for a sweeping strategic history of the Vietnam War this is not that. It’s very much focused on this particular engagement, almost moment‐to‐moment at times. Some readers might find the intricate detail of unit movements, equipment lists, and the internal combative narrative a bit dense. But for me, that detail is part of the strength—it gave the audio version a strong backbone and the written version I’ve since purchased a solid presence on my shelf.
Ultimately, this book stands out for me as one of my favorites of 2025. I’ve bought the hardcover to keep permanently in my library. I’d recommend it to anyone who generally avoids non-fiction audio but is open to an exception—or to anyone interested in military history told with clarity, respect, and genuine narrative skill.
Keith’s achievement is impressive: combat is notoriously difficult to convey in prose (or audio) without devolving into confusion, abstraction, or mere glorification. But he succeeds. His account of the March 26, 1970 battle along the Cambodian border—where elements of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (“Blackhorse Regiment”) thrust into jungle to rescue a stranded infantry company of the 1st Cavalry Division—is rendered with clarity, context, and empathy. As one professional review observes: “A fine, precisely detailed record of an obscure but nasty battle … in which heroism was forgotten even more quickly than the war itself.”
Keith doesn’t simply narrate the firefight; he sets up the terrain (dense triple-canopy jungle), the equipment (tanks, personnel carriers, howitzers) and the men involved so that when the action starts, you’re already in the moment. The urgency of rescue amid impossibly dense jungle, the way conventional air or artillery support can’t simply be summoned, the slow, brutal grind through forest and fire—Keith reconstructs it all. One review notes that the author interviewed dozens of survivors and dug into official records to produce “an overdue tribute” to the men involved.
And then there’s Dick Hill’s narration. I found his voice to be just as much part of what made this exception to my rule worthwhile. There’s a storyteller quality to his delivery, which helps ground the intensity of the material—when description and action escalate, his pacing and tone carry the listener rather than burdening them with dense prose. With many audiobooks I’ve felt the narration gets in the way; here it enhanced the immersion.
What I especially appreciated: Keith doesn’t just stop at the battle. He follows the men home, gives context to their lives afterward, and reminds the reader/listener that the story is not purely about tactical movement or jungle engagements. It is about people, memory, recognition — how this “forgotten” battle finally resulted in the Presidential Unit Citation decades later.
In terms of critiques: if one were looking for a sweeping strategic history of the Vietnam War this is not that. It’s very much focused on this particular engagement, almost moment‐to‐moment at times. Some readers might find the intricate detail of unit movements, equipment lists, and the internal combative narrative a bit dense. But for me, that detail is part of the strength—it gave the audio version a strong backbone and the written version I’ve since purchased a solid presence on my shelf.
Ultimately, this book stands out for me as one of my favorites of 2025. I’ve bought the hardcover to keep permanently in my library. I’d recommend it to anyone who generally avoids non-fiction audio but is open to an exception—or to anyone interested in military history told with clarity, respect, and genuine narrative skill.
December 6, 2016
Let's see...a small unit stumbles upon an large enemy unit base area in the jungle and is surrounded and outnumbered; after hours of fighting and running out of ammo, a general flies his helicopter over the triple canopy and kicks out water, medical supplies and ammunition to keep the fight going; a desperate cavalry "charge" to save the good guys surrounded by bad guys in "Indian Country"; another cavalry charge directly into the fortified positions of the enemy; when the enemy tries to outflank the charge the left wing "refuses the line", a tactic right out of Little Round Top to save the day; brave heroes fight to bring out all the living and the dead; no one left behind. This book has it all.
A Troop, 1/11 Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR) fought a battle to save a surrounded infantry unit in the runup to the Cambodia invasion. The battle and the medals for bravery were lost, forgotten and only surfaced in 1999. The book covers the battle and the subsequent effort to gain long-delayed recognition. Excellent. 4 Stars
A Troop, 1/11 Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR) fought a battle to save a surrounded infantry unit in the runup to the Cambodia invasion. The battle and the medals for bravery were lost, forgotten and only surfaced in 1999. The book covers the battle and the subsequent effort to gain long-delayed recognition. Excellent. 4 Stars
January 27, 2012
“Black-Horse Riders” by Philip Keith, published by St. Martin’s Press.
Category – Military/Vietnam
This is an unbelievable story that should be read by everyone regardless of their feelings about the Vietnam War or any military action. This is a story of courage, bravery, and sacrifice that transcends any book I have read concerning a military action, both fiction and non-fiction. In fact, the book is so well written the reader will sometimes lose track that this actually happened.
An infantry unit deep in Vietnam territory found themselves in the middle of a major Vietnamese Army encampment. The unit was surrounded and unable to extricate themselves. They could not get help from artillery, helicopter, or air support. The jungle made it impossible for a rescue and if artillery was used there was the distinct possibility they would fire upon their own forces. The “Black-Horse Riders”, a specialized outfit that was equipped with tanks, armored assault vehicles, and strangely enough an infantry unit of about 100 men.
Captain John Poindexter, of the “Black-Horse Riders” knew that his unit was the closest to the surrounded troops and if he did not respond they would likely be killed or captured. Fighting against time, jungle, and darkness the “Black-Horse Riders” saddled up and rode to the rescue.
The second part of this story is the lost recommendations for their actions. It was 30 years after the engagement that they received the Presidential Unit Citation for a battle that is known as “The Anonymous Battle”.
An (in military terms) an “outstanding” read.
Category – Military/Vietnam
This is an unbelievable story that should be read by everyone regardless of their feelings about the Vietnam War or any military action. This is a story of courage, bravery, and sacrifice that transcends any book I have read concerning a military action, both fiction and non-fiction. In fact, the book is so well written the reader will sometimes lose track that this actually happened.
An infantry unit deep in Vietnam territory found themselves in the middle of a major Vietnamese Army encampment. The unit was surrounded and unable to extricate themselves. They could not get help from artillery, helicopter, or air support. The jungle made it impossible for a rescue and if artillery was used there was the distinct possibility they would fire upon their own forces. The “Black-Horse Riders”, a specialized outfit that was equipped with tanks, armored assault vehicles, and strangely enough an infantry unit of about 100 men.
Captain John Poindexter, of the “Black-Horse Riders” knew that his unit was the closest to the surrounded troops and if he did not respond they would likely be killed or captured. Fighting against time, jungle, and darkness the “Black-Horse Riders” saddled up and rode to the rescue.
The second part of this story is the lost recommendations for their actions. It was 30 years after the engagement that they received the Presidential Unit Citation for a battle that is known as “The Anonymous Battle”.
An (in military terms) an “outstanding” read.
May 29, 2024
This book started off a bit uneven and was missing some additional and much-needed maps, but once the author found his rhythm and the events described really got rolling, it was a great read.
This book details a very vicious battle that was lost to the annals of war for many years. One of the many hard truths about this engagement, however, is that it could very easily have ended up being one of the most notorious American military disasters of the entire war. An entire company of infantry searching for a large concentration of NVA troops found itself completely surrounded and massively outnumbered in a place where helicopters couldn't reach them.
An armored cavalry unit was near enough that they picked up on the radio traffic. They realized they were the only chance the surrounded company had and the captain, on his own initiative, told his troop to "saddle up." There being no roads, they had to bust through over 4 kilometers of the thickest Vietnamese jungle to reach the surrounded company. Just an incredible story, and a rare look at the use of armored cavalry in jungle warfare in Vietnam, which is not generally associated with tanks or AFV's (ACAV's in this book).
This book includes what has to be one of the last times a General was almost killed in combat, as General Casey himself flew a huey over the cut-off company and pushed ammo crates down through the trees while taking fierce fire. His helicopter was riddled and flew away trailing smoke.
After Alpha Troop (the relieving mixed infantry/armored cav force) reached the surrounded infantry, it's Captain made a decision to take the fight to the NVA instead of attempting to withdraw under heavy fire. He actually formed up his 3 armored platoons into a rough line facing the enemy (the ends of the line were in echelon to deny his flank) and moved them toward the NVA bunker complex in the closest approximation to a traditional cavalry charge you are likely to find in modern warfare, particularly in the dense jungle! He was able to do this in no small part thanks to the attached infantry company he had with him, which was able to cover his flanks and the gaps. This led to a desperate 2+-hours of mayhem and a rare (for Vietnam) up-close fight between opposing regular army forces.
I'm glad this story got the attention it deserved, and that the unit finally received the recognition that was lost to it in the depths of the army bureaucracy of the day. It is good to read accounts like this, as it is an additional reminder of America at it's best, men from all different States and backgrounds, coming together and facing the very worst of adversity together as brothers.
This book details a very vicious battle that was lost to the annals of war for many years. One of the many hard truths about this engagement, however, is that it could very easily have ended up being one of the most notorious American military disasters of the entire war. An entire company of infantry searching for a large concentration of NVA troops found itself completely surrounded and massively outnumbered in a place where helicopters couldn't reach them.
An armored cavalry unit was near enough that they picked up on the radio traffic. They realized they were the only chance the surrounded company had and the captain, on his own initiative, told his troop to "saddle up." There being no roads, they had to bust through over 4 kilometers of the thickest Vietnamese jungle to reach the surrounded company. Just an incredible story, and a rare look at the use of armored cavalry in jungle warfare in Vietnam, which is not generally associated with tanks or AFV's (ACAV's in this book).
This book includes what has to be one of the last times a General was almost killed in combat, as General Casey himself flew a huey over the cut-off company and pushed ammo crates down through the trees while taking fierce fire. His helicopter was riddled and flew away trailing smoke.
After Alpha Troop (the relieving mixed infantry/armored cav force) reached the surrounded infantry, it's Captain made a decision to take the fight to the NVA instead of attempting to withdraw under heavy fire. He actually formed up his 3 armored platoons into a rough line facing the enemy (the ends of the line were in echelon to deny his flank) and moved them toward the NVA bunker complex in the closest approximation to a traditional cavalry charge you are likely to find in modern warfare, particularly in the dense jungle! He was able to do this in no small part thanks to the attached infantry company he had with him, which was able to cover his flanks and the gaps. This led to a desperate 2+-hours of mayhem and a rare (for Vietnam) up-close fight between opposing regular army forces.
I'm glad this story got the attention it deserved, and that the unit finally received the recognition that was lost to it in the depths of the army bureaucracy of the day. It is good to read accounts like this, as it is an additional reminder of America at it's best, men from all different States and backgrounds, coming together and facing the very worst of adversity together as brothers.
June 24, 2015
The story of of soldiers in Vietnam fighting on the border near Cambodia. When an American patrol stumbles on a larger Viet Cong bunker complex, they engage in a fight for their survival. Running short of ammunition and taking heavy casualties, their only hope is a mixed infantry and air calvary unit five kilometers way. This is an excellent tale of the true life struggles of American fighting men in vivid detail. It took forty years for recognition of their valor and sacrifice to be properly recognized and rewarded. Every one should read this to help understand that real war is different from the Hollywood version and that military from all branches make sacrifices that most Americans and few politicians are ever willing to make.
June 15, 2013
Very good story about a forgotten battle in Vietnam in March 1970. It sets the stage of how things happened, and then tells of the battle itself. It also tells how the battle was forgotten and the partipants efforts to get it recognized. Which ends up with the unit getting the presidential unit citation from President Obama, and getting the recognition they deserved long ago. I really thought the book did a good job of representing what an armored cav regiment went through in Vietnam.
December 30, 2014
The events that take place and the soldiers described in this book are highly commendable and are great Americans. This story is of the pinnacle of bravery and sacrifice. These actions described give me a deep respect of the individuals involved in the Vietnam War. Even though their experiences and senses are described in these pages, I don't believe I could ever fully grasp what these brave souls went through.
The afterword and epilogue are worth reading.
The afterword and epilogue are worth reading.
September 23, 2018
I have a penchant for factual war books and a particular love of Vietnam ones for some reason, this book filled all of the criteria I was hoping for and is a truly courageous tale of bravery in the face of an overwhelming heavily fortified enemy undertaken to rescue fellow soldiers.
The book is very detailed, some parts intricately so and might bore people who are less interested in the minutiae of military life however I lapped it up and loved every tiny fact and statistic.
I really liked the way the book was written, it was very straightforward, clear and concise but also exciting, very descriptive and atmospheric.
My hat totally goes off to any of the men or women who fought in Vietnam for either side and although there were atrocities committed by both sides in what ended up as a totally misguided war leading to horrific losses on both sides this is a proper heroic war story where the soldiers were purely trying to save the lives of fellow servicemen and risked everything to do so.
The book is very detailed, some parts intricately so and might bore people who are less interested in the minutiae of military life however I lapped it up and loved every tiny fact and statistic.
I really liked the way the book was written, it was very straightforward, clear and concise but also exciting, very descriptive and atmospheric.
My hat totally goes off to any of the men or women who fought in Vietnam for either side and although there were atrocities committed by both sides in what ended up as a totally misguided war leading to horrific losses on both sides this is a proper heroic war story where the soldiers were purely trying to save the lives of fellow servicemen and risked everything to do so.
April 11, 2020
In for a penny, in for a pound
What started as a rescue mission turned into a attack and destroy battle between armored cavalry/leg infantry versus an NVA Regiment dug in and spoiling for a kill.
Seriously portrayed is the chaos of war between two radically different forces both dedicated to their mission.
Not for the weak of heart or mind, it reminds us of why we need to be sure committing American troops is worth their blood. And why the consequences of political goals is always measured in young men and women’s lives.
What started as a rescue mission turned into a attack and destroy battle between armored cavalry/leg infantry versus an NVA Regiment dug in and spoiling for a kill.
Seriously portrayed is the chaos of war between two radically different forces both dedicated to their mission.
Not for the weak of heart or mind, it reminds us of why we need to be sure committing American troops is worth their blood. And why the consequences of political goals is always measured in young men and women’s lives.
June 16, 2021
Overall a good read. Who doesn't love a good story that involves tanks. The book gives another great example of how American forces in Vietnam overcoming extordinary odds against the North Vietnamese. The only thing that keeps me from rating the story higher is I feel the author is trying to make the narrative into some kind of "Apocalypse Now" or "Band of Brothers" event. I do enjoy the action and the heroics displayed by the American forces, but the style and pros doesn't quite measure up. Again, great read if you are looking military action undertaken at the company and battlion levels.
March 1, 2021
This is the only recounting of an Armored Cavalry Regiment in action that I have found. When I was in the service, I was a platoon leader in the 3d ACR. I often wondered how my men and equipment would fare in a pitched battle. I had a lot of concerns about my Sheridans breaking down at the wrong time, which they did a lot in training exercises. This book gave me a lot of clues. It's a hell of a read.
June 26, 2025
Good and interesting read.
The actions of Charlie Company are very well researched and described. Keith has obviously put a huge amount of time into tracking down the participants in the battle and recording their experiences and cross referencing isolated incidents. A very good read, indeed.
The actions of Charlie Company are very well researched and described. Keith has obviously put a huge amount of time into tracking down the participants in the battle and recording their experiences and cross referencing isolated incidents. A very good read, indeed.
August 11, 2025
great book
This is a well written book of this unit and well deserved recognition for their service. This was during the time I would have been there but for a medical discharge. This book was an eye opener for what the guys went through very there. Thank each of you for your service and sacrifice
This is a well written book of this unit and well deserved recognition for their service. This was during the time I would have been there but for a medical discharge. This book was an eye opener for what the guys went through very there. Thank each of you for your service and sacrifice
July 11, 2020
This was recommended by a bicycling buddy who happened to be 'in country' at the time. It reads like the thriller it must have been for those on the ground. I keep going back over some of this ground every year so that these men and their families are not forgotten.
August 16, 2022
Well told tale of a lesser known battle in War Zone C in Vietnam in 1970. Having read a lot of Keith Nolan’s stuff years ago I had some familiarity but it’s been a long time. Solid read available at this writing as an audiobook on scribd.
October 7, 2025
A very good book.
I served in a cavalry unit in Vietnam in 68-69. There are not many books about armored cavalry, so I was happy to read it. Brought back many memories, the grinding exhaustion, the heat, the filth all came back. The book was a really goog read.
I served in a cavalry unit in Vietnam in 68-69. There are not many books about armored cavalry, so I was happy to read it. Brought back many memories, the grinding exhaustion, the heat, the filth all came back. The book was a really goog read.
December 6, 2017
One of the finest histories of a small unit battle I have ever read. Well written, well organized, and dramatic.
October 21, 2021
Great account of a forgotten battle of the Vietnam war. An engagement involving armor Calvary fighting in the jungle to rescue an infantry company. The stories of these men is incredibly.
April 6, 2022
Thank you for sharing this story. Amazing men of courage. Our Vietnam Veterans deserve to have their stories told and so well!
May 5, 2025
Well worth reading. Intense, after you get through early background details.
April 2, 2025
Inspiring, heart-rending story of the intertwined story of three groups of brave, dedicated American soldiers.
October 5, 2015
Philip Keith’s “Black-Horse Riders” is a stunning account of bravery in the Vietnam war. The book tells the story of a heroic rescue operation in Vietnam. The accounts of the brave soldiers that took part in that operation is one of heroism and horror. Each section of the book is able to keep even the most stoic reader on the edge of their seat, desperate to learn more.
The author’s purpose for writing the book was to inform people of the heroic operation. His attention to detail and the painstaking lengths he went to get an accurate portrayal of what had happened is apparent throughout the book. The reason why the author wrote this is quite apparent on page 4 when the author states that … in this particular instance, for reasons never discovered, the recommendations for some of the medals and, indeed, even the record of the battle itself were either lost or misplaced in a haze of army paperwork.” Considering how difficult it was to find the original information on the events, finding a more accurate account of the operation was most likely quite difficult. It is due to this that the author’s purpose is most likely to inform people of the operation.
The theme of the book is that heroism in the face of overwhelming odds is an extraordinary trait. Due to the events in the book it is quite clear that this is the theme. One example that displays this theme is on page 7 when it is stated that the two options John Poindexter had were either “Do nothing until ordered, in which case the men of Charlie would continue to suffer and die without hope: or mount up and charge off into the jungle with every prospect of either getting ambushed along the way or being chopped up in the same meat grinder that was chewing through the ranks of Charlie.” This quote clearly displays the theme due to what Poindexter ultimately decided to do. Neither of the options that Poindexter had at this moment were good options. Ultimately, he chooses to go to Charlie Company’s rescue which displays his willpower. Despite how dangerous it was to try to rescue them he and his troops decided to attempt a desperate rescue operation.
The accounts are told in a narration format. The author wrote about several soldier’s perspectives in every stage of the operation and Alpha Company’s involvement in the Vietnam war. The author doesn’t spend too much time explaining the exact particulars of when and where each incident happens, instead he focuses on the soldier’s experiences and explains what had happened to the soldiers. A good example of the author’s style is on page 185 when the author states “Almost as if both sides sensed that the tempo was somehow changing, a lull occurred.” The author did not spend time going over the exact specifics of when the lull occurred. He simply wrote what the soldiers remembered.
Personally, I found “Black-Horse Riders” to be a fascinating account of the Vietnam war. The novel stays true to the events of the operation and described the soldier’s feelings about the operation extremely well. There is not anything that could have been done better or that should be changed in the book. Everything that was written in it was quite solid and was absolutely fascinating. I would recommend this to anybody looking for a good military nonfiction or somebody who is interested in the Vietnam war.
The author’s purpose for writing the book was to inform people of the heroic operation. His attention to detail and the painstaking lengths he went to get an accurate portrayal of what had happened is apparent throughout the book. The reason why the author wrote this is quite apparent on page 4 when the author states that … in this particular instance, for reasons never discovered, the recommendations for some of the medals and, indeed, even the record of the battle itself were either lost or misplaced in a haze of army paperwork.” Considering how difficult it was to find the original information on the events, finding a more accurate account of the operation was most likely quite difficult. It is due to this that the author’s purpose is most likely to inform people of the operation.
The theme of the book is that heroism in the face of overwhelming odds is an extraordinary trait. Due to the events in the book it is quite clear that this is the theme. One example that displays this theme is on page 7 when it is stated that the two options John Poindexter had were either “Do nothing until ordered, in which case the men of Charlie would continue to suffer and die without hope: or mount up and charge off into the jungle with every prospect of either getting ambushed along the way or being chopped up in the same meat grinder that was chewing through the ranks of Charlie.” This quote clearly displays the theme due to what Poindexter ultimately decided to do. Neither of the options that Poindexter had at this moment were good options. Ultimately, he chooses to go to Charlie Company’s rescue which displays his willpower. Despite how dangerous it was to try to rescue them he and his troops decided to attempt a desperate rescue operation.
The accounts are told in a narration format. The author wrote about several soldier’s perspectives in every stage of the operation and Alpha Company’s involvement in the Vietnam war. The author doesn’t spend too much time explaining the exact particulars of when and where each incident happens, instead he focuses on the soldier’s experiences and explains what had happened to the soldiers. A good example of the author’s style is on page 185 when the author states “Almost as if both sides sensed that the tempo was somehow changing, a lull occurred.” The author did not spend time going over the exact specifics of when the lull occurred. He simply wrote what the soldiers remembered.
Personally, I found “Black-Horse Riders” to be a fascinating account of the Vietnam war. The novel stays true to the events of the operation and described the soldier’s feelings about the operation extremely well. There is not anything that could have been done better or that should be changed in the book. Everything that was written in it was quite solid and was absolutely fascinating. I would recommend this to anybody looking for a good military nonfiction or somebody who is interested in the Vietnam war.
November 7, 2013
I won Phillip Keith’s Blackhorse Riders in a Goodreads giveaway way back in June 2012. Due to the weirdness of life, it’s taken me this long to get a review written.
Blackhorse Riders is literally one of those “cavalry to the rescue” stories—in this case, Alpha Troop of the 11th Armored Cavalry regiment. Being the only “boots on the ground” within range to lend assistance, Alpha Troop cut through four kilometers of dense jungle to assist Company C of the 2/8 1st Cavalry Division, whose mission to locate the enemy in War Zone C met with far too much success by driving right into the center of a horseshoe-shaped NVA bunker complex. For several hours on March 26, 1970 these Americans fought against extraordinary odds and battle-hardened NVA regulars, and in the end were able to extract Company C from their dire predicament.
The story does not end there. Due to unfortunate some oversight, many of the recommendations for medals for actions that day were never processed. Upon learning of this error decades later, former Alpha Troop commander John Poindexter took it upon himself to see that lapse remedied. The story culminates on a bright, fall day in 2009 when, thanks to the efforts of John Poindexter and many others, the Alpha Troop “Blackhorse Riders” received the Presidential Unit Citation in the Rose Garden of the White House.
Blackhorse Riders is a thoroughly enjoyable read, and fine tribute to the men of Alpha Troop, and all Vietnam veterans. A significant portion of the book is the follow up and perspective permitted only by the passing of four decades, as well as personal insights and experiences from the combatants. The author obliges those readers without military knowledge or experience with concise explanations of important terms, and even provides a glossary, should the reader lose track of the acronyms that the US military loves so much.
Overall, it is a well-rounded account of the events of 26 March 1970 in Vietnam’s “Dog’s Head” from before the battle until the personal aftermath and long-overdue citations forty years later. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about the war in Vietnam and the men who fought it with honor.
Blackhorse Riders is literally one of those “cavalry to the rescue” stories—in this case, Alpha Troop of the 11th Armored Cavalry regiment. Being the only “boots on the ground” within range to lend assistance, Alpha Troop cut through four kilometers of dense jungle to assist Company C of the 2/8 1st Cavalry Division, whose mission to locate the enemy in War Zone C met with far too much success by driving right into the center of a horseshoe-shaped NVA bunker complex. For several hours on March 26, 1970 these Americans fought against extraordinary odds and battle-hardened NVA regulars, and in the end were able to extract Company C from their dire predicament.
The story does not end there. Due to unfortunate some oversight, many of the recommendations for medals for actions that day were never processed. Upon learning of this error decades later, former Alpha Troop commander John Poindexter took it upon himself to see that lapse remedied. The story culminates on a bright, fall day in 2009 when, thanks to the efforts of John Poindexter and many others, the Alpha Troop “Blackhorse Riders” received the Presidential Unit Citation in the Rose Garden of the White House.
Blackhorse Riders is a thoroughly enjoyable read, and fine tribute to the men of Alpha Troop, and all Vietnam veterans. A significant portion of the book is the follow up and perspective permitted only by the passing of four decades, as well as personal insights and experiences from the combatants. The author obliges those readers without military knowledge or experience with concise explanations of important terms, and even provides a glossary, should the reader lose track of the acronyms that the US military loves so much.
Overall, it is a well-rounded account of the events of 26 March 1970 in Vietnam’s “Dog’s Head” from before the battle until the personal aftermath and long-overdue citations forty years later. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about the war in Vietnam and the men who fought it with honor.
April 27, 2016
I found several really positive things about this book. It was extremely well researched and the author lays it out early on there are limits to memories and relies on cross referencing for putting the details together. Good explanations of the equipment, locations, and environment were provided. A point was made about how movies portrayed some aspects, e.g. being on point. Coincidentally, I watched the movie "Platoon" on OTA TV (i.e. non-cable) and sure enough, the point guy was hacking away at the jungle, not paying a lot of attention to the surroundings. When a book gets basic details right, I am fairly happy. When the detail details are right, I have great respect for the author.
The book is not just about a battle, rather a group of men in an unpopular war doing things no one else would ever understand. Granted I am not a vet, but these events happened when I was 15 years old. Why oh why did the public dislike the soldiers so much... this is baffling to me. Then, for the government to mess up awards deny this battle didn't happen. Huh? People systems. Government systems. Recording systems. It must have been a nightmare.
The book was extraordinary. I am also glad President Obama's speech for the well deserved awards was included at the end, and the bio's of the people involved.
The book is not just about a battle, rather a group of men in an unpopular war doing things no one else would ever understand. Granted I am not a vet, but these events happened when I was 15 years old. Why oh why did the public dislike the soldiers so much... this is baffling to me. Then, for the government to mess up awards deny this battle didn't happen. Huh? People systems. Government systems. Recording systems. It must have been a nightmare.
The book was extraordinary. I am also glad President Obama's speech for the well deserved awards was included at the end, and the bio's of the people involved.
June 12, 2020
The day is hot, humid, and it is about to become even longer when a young Troop Commander makes a hard call to move to the sound of the guns. Their brothers in arm are in dire straights; they have found, walked into the enemies trap. It has becomes a nightmare for the infantry company commander. He is running out of the B3- beans, bullets, and band aids. The air support has a tough challenge in providing the B3, and evacuating the wounded, and dead. That is when like the old westerns, the cavalry, and an attached infantry company comes to their aid. Notwithstanding the Troop Commanders taking the time to forward recommendations for honors that were earned. The recommendations were in lost. Because of the Regimental Commander wanted to instill in his troopers the history of the regiment, he brought back the young troop commander, John Poindexter. In doing so, Mr. Poindexter reviews his manuscript he wrote after action of 26 March 1970. He uses another piece, and discovers that his troopers had not received the honor that was due. Thus, it causes Mr. Poindexter to work to restore the honor to his troopers.
Philip Keith adds to the rich history of the 11th ACR, and in the process brought about healing, peace, and respect for those men who sacrificed their youth, family, and their lives to serve their country.
Philip Keith adds to the rich history of the 11th ACR, and in the process brought about healing, peace, and respect for those men who sacrificed their youth, family, and their lives to serve their country.
September 29, 2014
An account of one desperate battle in War Zone C in 1970. There were tens of thousand of them over the years.This one was an outsatnding episode but then there were many others, as a vetera of Vietnam I am always interested in the experience of others. I had a little to do with tracks from time to time so I have some familiarity to help my imagination along. It was an interesting account and I could certainly feel for those involved, the loss of the documentation and the fact that awards and recommendations went with them is alson not uncommon. Many brave and courageous acts went unrecognized for decades, some of those oversights have been rectified mand haven't. IT seems so long ago now, there is nod oubt that for veterans their war service in Vietnam became a defining aspect of their lives, it could be nothing else other than central to who they became. Some were able to deal with that others were not, the trick is to move to a place where it is not the sole defing factor operating, that has taken some of us a lifetime. This book is written by an ordinary man without either experience of much polish and it shows, but it was a story he thought needed to be told and I am glad he took the trouble
April 29, 2012
Blackhorse Riders is an intense ride into the heart of a desperate rescue mission turned near-last stand. Philip Keith writes with extreme skill and realism, creating a true story that reads like a novel. The heroes in this book really come alive, as if you were sitting at a table listening to
them. The action is also intense and draws you in. One chapter I found especially interesting was where Keith breaks the experience of battle down into taste, sight, sound, smell, etc. My only complaint, and it's very minor, is the near constant parentheses at the beginning explaining everything. I feel that just the glossary at the end would have made the opening chapters a smoother read.
So far 2012 has been an excellent year for military history and memoirs, this is just one of them. Overall, I highly recommend this to everyone.
them. The action is also intense and draws you in. One chapter I found especially interesting was where Keith breaks the experience of battle down into taste, sight, sound, smell, etc. My only complaint, and it's very minor, is the near constant parentheses at the beginning explaining everything. I feel that just the glossary at the end would have made the opening chapters a smoother read.
So far 2012 has been an excellent year for military history and memoirs, this is just one of them. Overall, I highly recommend this to everyone.
July 28, 2013
Fantastic story about group of men fighting at the end of the Vietnam war. Author does a great job oa placing the battle in the context of events. Then through the eyes of the men there tells a great story of men in battle. Should be a classic. Story does not end there... 2nd part is of gaining the lost recognition for their actions.
Can not wait for the authors next book a story of a battle a few days later of NVA attack on fire-base that was equally as bad and intense and unknown.
Great read. I read it in two days.
Can not wait for the authors next book a story of a battle a few days later of NVA attack on fire-base that was equally as bad and intense and unknown.
Great read. I read it in two days.
January 7, 2013
Good, but not electric book.
The author details a day long firefight in which a lightly armored cavalry troop rides to the rescue of a pinned down infantry company in March of 1970. The most interesting portions of the book centered around how the armored cav fought in Vietnam. The descriptions and uses of the ACAV and M551 Sheridan were particularly interesting.
A good book - well worth the read.
The author details a day long firefight in which a lightly armored cavalry troop rides to the rescue of a pinned down infantry company in March of 1970. The most interesting portions of the book centered around how the armored cav fought in Vietnam. The descriptions and uses of the ACAV and M551 Sheridan were particularly interesting.
A good book - well worth the read.
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