Cherries: A Vietnam War Novel

by John Podlaski, Ms. Donna Casey (Illustrator), Mrs. Nicole A. Patrick (Editor)

When a soldier leaves for war, those left behind often wonder what their loved ones are experiencing. Letters home are always cheerful and vague - no sense in worrying the family. Then upon returning home, these young soldiers do not want to talk about their experiences. Family and friends allege they are now distant, changed, and not the same person they remember from several months earlier. What causes this?

Although the backdrop for this novel is the Vietnam War, "Cherries" exist in every war. They are the young "Newbie" soldiers, who are trained for war. However, most are not ready to absorb the harsh physical, mental and emotional stress of war. Once they come under fire and witness death firsthand, a life-changing transition begins. This eye-opening account offers readers an in-depth look into the everyday struggles of these young infantry soldiers. You'll feel their fear, awe, drama, and sorrow, witness the bravery and sometimes laugh at their humor.

No two war experiences are the same, but after finishing "Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel", readers will have a much better understanding as to why these changes occur and why our military heroes are different upon their return home. Veterans will relate!

482 pages, Hardcover

Published June 12, 2023

About the author

John Podlaski served in Vietnam during 1970 and 1971 as an infantryman with both the Wolfhounds of the 25th Division, and the 501st Infantry Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, two Air Medals, and a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. "Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel" is his first book, published in 2010, it is faring well with over 300 combined reviews with an average of 4.6 stars. The story is a memoir of his time as as infantry soldier during the Vietnam War.

John spent the years since Vietnam working in various management positions within the automotive industry and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 2002. John is a life member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 and lives with his wife of 51 years, Janice, in Sterling Heights, Michigan. They both retired in 2013 and enjoy riding their 1997 Harley-Davidson Heritage.

Mr. Podlaski published his second book, "When Can I Stop Running?" in 2016. It's a spinoff from his first novel, and follows two soldiers during a terrifying night - alone in the jungle - on a listening post. Some of the characters from Cherries are also included in this story.

John is currently busy managing a website featuring weekly articles/stories, movies, videos, and photos about the Vietnam War. The address can be found below.