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War in Our Wake : A Sailor's True Story of Sweat and Tears at the Bitter End of the Vietnam War
INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLER AUTHOR
War in Our The Untold Story of the Last American Military Presence of the Vietnam War
by Jonathan Malay
Step aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG-22) and discover a compelling, untold chapter of history in War in Our Wake. Through a gripping and deeply personal narrative, Jonathan Malay recounts the final days of the Vietnam War from his vantage as a young naval officer.
Three days after the last Marine Corps helicopter left Saigon, Malay and his shipmates became the very last American military presence in Vietnam. This remarkable memoir weaves history, adventure, and human emotion into the story of a Navy destroyer’s mission during a pivotal moment in history. From the stark reality of Vietnam's coastal waters to the excitement of port visits across the Pacific and Indian Oceans, Malay brings to life the demands of service, the intensity of duty, and the humanity behind military operations.
At the heart of this story lies a bold humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. Through letters to his wife, the ship's logs, and his vivid recollections, Malay captures the pride, sacrifice, and sense of duty that defined this historic journey.
This book is more than just a recounting of military events—it is a testament to resilience, courage, and the personal toll of war. With rich storytelling, Malay brings readers closer to understanding the lives of those who served and the weight of their experiences.
About the AuthorJonathan Malay is a retired naval officer and accomplished writer with a passion for history and science. Over his 20-year Navy career, he specialized in oceanography, meteorology, and satellite remote sensing, serving in pivotal roles across the military and government.
After retiring, Malay worked with organizations like NOAA and Lockheed Martin and led professional societies such as the American Astronautical Society. Now an author and enrichment speaker, he brings his experiences to life in War in Our Wake, offering a rare and poignant perspective on the Vietnam War.
Don’t miss this extraordinary story of courage, sacrifice, and humanity.
Order your copy of War in Our Wake today and uncover the untold legacy of the Vietnam War's final chapter!
War in Our The Untold Story of the Last American Military Presence of the Vietnam War
by Jonathan Malay
Step aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG-22) and discover a compelling, untold chapter of history in War in Our Wake. Through a gripping and deeply personal narrative, Jonathan Malay recounts the final days of the Vietnam War from his vantage as a young naval officer.
Three days after the last Marine Corps helicopter left Saigon, Malay and his shipmates became the very last American military presence in Vietnam. This remarkable memoir weaves history, adventure, and human emotion into the story of a Navy destroyer’s mission during a pivotal moment in history. From the stark reality of Vietnam's coastal waters to the excitement of port visits across the Pacific and Indian Oceans, Malay brings to life the demands of service, the intensity of duty, and the humanity behind military operations.
At the heart of this story lies a bold humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. Through letters to his wife, the ship's logs, and his vivid recollections, Malay captures the pride, sacrifice, and sense of duty that defined this historic journey.
This book is more than just a recounting of military events—it is a testament to resilience, courage, and the personal toll of war. With rich storytelling, Malay brings readers closer to understanding the lives of those who served and the weight of their experiences.
About the AuthorJonathan Malay is a retired naval officer and accomplished writer with a passion for history and science. Over his 20-year Navy career, he specialized in oceanography, meteorology, and satellite remote sensing, serving in pivotal roles across the military and government.
After retiring, Malay worked with organizations like NOAA and Lockheed Martin and led professional societies such as the American Astronautical Society. Now an author and enrichment speaker, he brings his experiences to life in War in Our Wake, offering a rare and poignant perspective on the Vietnam War.
Don’t miss this extraordinary story of courage, sacrifice, and humanity.
Order your copy of War in Our Wake today and uncover the untold legacy of the Vietnam War's final chapter!
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2025
34 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 4, 2025
While many people who saw the end of the Vietnam War as the pictures of desperate people trying to board helicopters on the top of the US Embassy in Saigon, that was not the last involvement of the US military or the last people to leave the country when South Vietnan fell to the North in 1975. That actually was the USS Benjamin Stoddard who rescued refugees two days after Saigon fell. The story of the ship's involvement in this operation is told in this memoir by Jonathan Malay, who was an ensign on that ship, fresh out of the Naval Acadamy.
As a former Navy man, I made MANY notes comparing Malay's time onboard the ship to my own experiences. Even though he was an officer and I was an enlisted man, there were so many similarities to the experiences. Malay also does a good job of not only describing shipboard life, but he also gives the reader some history about the Vietnam War and also what his personal life was like. Something all married military personnel can relate to in the book is the loneliness one feels when leaving the spouse behind, as he did with his wife Sharon.
I enjoyed reading this book for two reasons - one, as mentioned above, I am a former Navy man. Two, I am always interested in the events that led up to the fall of South Vietnam. Even more so than any military operations, and now that we are approaching the 50th anniversary of that event, I will be looking for even more material on this.
As a former Navy man, I made MANY notes comparing Malay's time onboard the ship to my own experiences. Even though he was an officer and I was an enlisted man, there were so many similarities to the experiences. Malay also does a good job of not only describing shipboard life, but he also gives the reader some history about the Vietnam War and also what his personal life was like. Something all married military personnel can relate to in the book is the loneliness one feels when leaving the spouse behind, as he did with his wife Sharon.
I enjoyed reading this book for two reasons - one, as mentioned above, I am a former Navy man. Two, I am always interested in the events that led up to the fall of South Vietnam. Even more so than any military operations, and now that we are approaching the 50th anniversary of that event, I will be looking for even more material on this.
March 13, 2025
WAR in Our Wake is a true account of US Navy Junior Commissioned Officer, Ensign Jonathan Malay. Jonathan was appointed on USS Benjamin Stoddert, the last US Navy Destroyer to leave Vietnam War Zone.
The ship left for Subic Bay Philippines in the beginning of Nov 1974, from Hawaii. It made stops on the way for refueling and reached its destination. The destroyer also anchored at Korean, Japanese, Kenyan, Singapore and Vietnam ports in this 6 months voyage, which ended in May 1975, with its return back to Hawaii. It took part in rescuer mission to evacuate American officials, workers, and South Vietnamese people working for US against North Vietnam Army. After Paris Accords in January 1973, except for diplomatic and military advisory and security
Personnel, American forces were withdrawn from Vietnam, and Benjamin Stoddert and other warships of the Pacific fleet were given a rest. The Paris Accords failed and South Vietnam announced it surrender, and North occupied Saigon on April 30th 1975. The rescue operation, named operation Frequent Wind, was a tremendous mission to take all American Allies out of Saigon before the occupation of North Army. The USS Benjamin returned back to Hawaii and decommissioned in 1991
This book is recommended for history and war enthusiasts, as this book sheds light on the extraordinary service to save human lives in the last days of the Vietnam war.
The ship left for Subic Bay Philippines in the beginning of Nov 1974, from Hawaii. It made stops on the way for refueling and reached its destination. The destroyer also anchored at Korean, Japanese, Kenyan, Singapore and Vietnam ports in this 6 months voyage, which ended in May 1975, with its return back to Hawaii. It took part in rescuer mission to evacuate American officials, workers, and South Vietnamese people working for US against North Vietnam Army. After Paris Accords in January 1973, except for diplomatic and military advisory and security
Personnel, American forces were withdrawn from Vietnam, and Benjamin Stoddert and other warships of the Pacific fleet were given a rest. The Paris Accords failed and South Vietnam announced it surrender, and North occupied Saigon on April 30th 1975. The rescue operation, named operation Frequent Wind, was a tremendous mission to take all American Allies out of Saigon before the occupation of North Army. The USS Benjamin returned back to Hawaii and decommissioned in 1991
This book is recommended for history and war enthusiasts, as this book sheds light on the extraordinary service to save human lives in the last days of the Vietnam war.
January 31, 2025
Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake is a gripping and deeply personal account of a chapter in military history that few people know about. As a former naval officer, Malay brings a unique insider’s perspective to the final days of the Vietnam War, and his storytelling is both vivid and heartfelt.
What sets this book apart is the blend of history, adventure, and human emotion. Malay doesn’t just recount military events—he takes the reader inside the minds and hearts of those who served. The tension of patrolling Vietnam’s coastal waters, the camaraderie among sailors, and the weight of duty are captured in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there on the USS Benjamin Stoddert.
One of the most moving parts of the book is the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. It’s a powerful reminder that war isn’t just about strategy and combat—it’s about people. Malay’s use of letters to his wife, ship logs, and personal reflections adds a deeply emotional layer to the narrative, making this book both historically important and profoundly human.
If you’re interested in military history, the Vietnam War, or just love stories of courage and resilience, this is a must-read. Highly recommended!
What sets this book apart is the blend of history, adventure, and human emotion. Malay doesn’t just recount military events—he takes the reader inside the minds and hearts of those who served. The tension of patrolling Vietnam’s coastal waters, the camaraderie among sailors, and the weight of duty are captured in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there on the USS Benjamin Stoddert.
One of the most moving parts of the book is the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. It’s a powerful reminder that war isn’t just about strategy and combat—it’s about people. Malay’s use of letters to his wife, ship logs, and personal reflections adds a deeply emotional layer to the narrative, making this book both historically important and profoundly human.
If you’re interested in military history, the Vietnam War, or just love stories of courage and resilience, this is a must-read. Highly recommended!
January 31, 2025
War in Our Wake is a profoundly moving and gripping account that dives deep into the complexities of the Vietnam wartime experiences and their enduring impact. With vivid storytelling and unflinching honesty, the author paints a poignant picture of the human spirit amidst chaos and the burdens carried long after the battlefields are left behind.
The narrative effortlessly weaves personal anecdotes with historical context, offering readers a unique perspective on the emotional and moral challenges faced by those directly involved in war. The book doesn't shy away from the harrowing realities, yet it also finds moments of resilience and hope, making it an incredibly balanced and thought-provoking read.
One of the standout features is the author’s ability to connect readers with the emotions of the characters, whether through moments of camaraderie, heartbreak, or triumph. This is not just a recounting of events; it's a journey through the very soul of those who lived through it.
For anyone seeking a deeply impactful story about the Vietnam war, its consequences, and the strength of the human spirit, War in Our Wake is an absolute must-read. It’s more than a book—it’s an experience that lingers long after the last page is turned.
The narrative effortlessly weaves personal anecdotes with historical context, offering readers a unique perspective on the emotional and moral challenges faced by those directly involved in war. The book doesn't shy away from the harrowing realities, yet it also finds moments of resilience and hope, making it an incredibly balanced and thought-provoking read.
One of the standout features is the author’s ability to connect readers with the emotions of the characters, whether through moments of camaraderie, heartbreak, or triumph. This is not just a recounting of events; it's a journey through the very soul of those who lived through it.
For anyone seeking a deeply impactful story about the Vietnam war, its consequences, and the strength of the human spirit, War in Our Wake is an absolute must-read. It’s more than a book—it’s an experience that lingers long after the last page is turned.
January 31, 2025
A Fabulous Read for Military Enthusiasts and History Buffs
Few books capture the final moments of American military involvement in Vietnam with as much depth and authenticity as War in Our Wake. Jonathan Malay’s firsthand account of serving aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert during this pivotal time is both riveting and informative.
The book is an engaging mix of memoir and history, giving readers a look at naval life, the realities of war, and the deep sense of duty that guided Malay and his shipmates. Unlike many war histories that focus on large-scale battles and politics, this book highlights the experience of those on the front lines, making it personal and relatable.
One of the standout elements is how Malay balances technical details with human emotion. He describes everything from navigating rough seas to the thrill of port visits, but at its core, this is a story about service, sacrifice, and the bonds between those who serve together. His writing is clear, engaging, and often moving, making it accessible even for those who don’t typically read military memoirs.
Whether you’re a veteran, a history enthusiast, or someone looking to better understand the Vietnam War from a new angle, this book is worth your time.
Few books capture the final moments of American military involvement in Vietnam with as much depth and authenticity as War in Our Wake. Jonathan Malay’s firsthand account of serving aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert during this pivotal time is both riveting and informative.
The book is an engaging mix of memoir and history, giving readers a look at naval life, the realities of war, and the deep sense of duty that guided Malay and his shipmates. Unlike many war histories that focus on large-scale battles and politics, this book highlights the experience of those on the front lines, making it personal and relatable.
One of the standout elements is how Malay balances technical details with human emotion. He describes everything from navigating rough seas to the thrill of port visits, but at its core, this is a story about service, sacrifice, and the bonds between those who serve together. His writing is clear, engaging, and often moving, making it accessible even for those who don’t typically read military memoirs.
Whether you’re a veteran, a history enthusiast, or someone looking to better understand the Vietnam War from a new angle, this book is worth your time.
January 31, 2025
War in Our Wake is an exceptional memoir that sheds light on a little-known yet historically significant part of the Vietnam War. Jonathan Malay brings his experience as a young naval officer to life with stunning clarity, offering a rare glimpse into the final days of U.S. military presence in Vietnam.
What I appreciated most about this book was the raw honesty and emotional depth. Malay doesn’t just recount events—he immerses you in them. Through detailed descriptions, personal letters, and ship logs, you gain a deep understanding of what it was like to serve in those uncertain days after Saigon fell.
The book also highlights a remarkable humanitarian effort that saved over 150 people, showcasing the human side of war—one filled with both hardships and moments of profound heroism. The combination of historical insight, personal narrative, and vivid storytelling makes this book impossible to put down.
Malay’s background in oceanography and military service adds another layer of richness to the story, making it an authentic and educational read. This book will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page—a true testament to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.
Highly recommended!
What I appreciated most about this book was the raw honesty and emotional depth. Malay doesn’t just recount events—he immerses you in them. Through detailed descriptions, personal letters, and ship logs, you gain a deep understanding of what it was like to serve in those uncertain days after Saigon fell.
The book also highlights a remarkable humanitarian effort that saved over 150 people, showcasing the human side of war—one filled with both hardships and moments of profound heroism. The combination of historical insight, personal narrative, and vivid storytelling makes this book impossible to put down.
Malay’s background in oceanography and military service adds another layer of richness to the story, making it an authentic and educational read. This book will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page—a true testament to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.
Highly recommended!
February 1, 2025
Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake is an exceptional military memoir that offers a rare and personal look at the closing days of the Vietnam War. Through his first-hand experience aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert, Malay provides an authentic and intimate account of the final days of the war, shedding light on the human side of military service.
The book is filled with moments of tension, camaraderie, and profound reflection, capturing the emotions and experiences of those who served during this pivotal time. Malay’s writing is both engaging and honest, and his deep sense of duty and loyalty to his shipmates comes through clearly in every page.
I particularly appreciated how the book highlights the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives—this is a powerful reminder that military service is not just about combat, but also about the care and protection of others. Malay’s use of letters and ship logs adds a personal touch, making this book not only a history of the Vietnam War but also a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who served.
If you’re a veteran, a history buff, or someone who wants to better understand the personal sacrifices made during the Vietnam War, this book is a must-read.
The book is filled with moments of tension, camaraderie, and profound reflection, capturing the emotions and experiences of those who served during this pivotal time. Malay’s writing is both engaging and honest, and his deep sense of duty and loyalty to his shipmates comes through clearly in every page.
I particularly appreciated how the book highlights the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives—this is a powerful reminder that military service is not just about combat, but also about the care and protection of others. Malay’s use of letters and ship logs adds a personal touch, making this book not only a history of the Vietnam War but also a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who served.
If you’re a veteran, a history buff, or someone who wants to better understand the personal sacrifices made during the Vietnam War, this book is a must-read.
February 1, 2025
Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake is a captivating and thought-provoking memoir that offers an insider’s perspective on the final days of the Vietnam War. As a naval officer aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert, Malay was in the heart of history, and his personal account brings to life the experiences of those who served during this pivotal time.
What makes this book unique is its blend of historical insight, personal reflection, and emotional depth. Malay captures the tension and camaraderie of life aboard a naval ship, but he also delves deeply into the emotional struggles and sacrifices that come with military service. The inclusion of personal letters and ship logs makes the narrative feel intimate and authentic, and the storytelling is vivid and engaging.
The book also highlights a remarkable humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives—this powerful story adds another layer of depth to the narrative and underscores the humanity behind the uniform.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a military veteran, or simply someone who appreciates powerful storytelling, War in Our Wake is a must-read. It’s a book that will leave a lasting impact, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served during the Vietnam War.
What makes this book unique is its blend of historical insight, personal reflection, and emotional depth. Malay captures the tension and camaraderie of life aboard a naval ship, but he also delves deeply into the emotional struggles and sacrifices that come with military service. The inclusion of personal letters and ship logs makes the narrative feel intimate and authentic, and the storytelling is vivid and engaging.
The book also highlights a remarkable humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives—this powerful story adds another layer of depth to the narrative and underscores the humanity behind the uniform.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a military veteran, or simply someone who appreciates powerful storytelling, War in Our Wake is a must-read. It’s a book that will leave a lasting impact, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served during the Vietnam War.
February 1, 2025
Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake is a captivating memoir that not only recounts the final days of the Vietnam War but also offers a powerful, personal perspective that you won’t find in typical history books. As a former naval officer aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert, Malay gives readers an insider’s look at naval life and the complex emotions of serving during this tumultuous time.
What stands out is Malay’s ability to bring history to life through the eyes of those who lived it. He takes you beyond the tactical and political aspects of the war and shows you the daily struggles and triumphs of the men who served. Whether it’s navigating the treacherous waters off Vietnam or responding to the desperate humanitarian crisis, the book immerses you in a world of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie.
I especially appreciated the book’s candid exploration of the human experience during war—letters to his wife, reflections on his shipmates, and personal accounts of heroism and heartbreak. War in Our Wake is not just a historical account; it’s a tribute to those who fought and sacrificed, and it’s written in a way that’s both accessible and deeply moving.
This book is essential for anyone interested in the Vietnam War, military history, or personal stories of duty and heroism.
What stands out is Malay’s ability to bring history to life through the eyes of those who lived it. He takes you beyond the tactical and political aspects of the war and shows you the daily struggles and triumphs of the men who served. Whether it’s navigating the treacherous waters off Vietnam or responding to the desperate humanitarian crisis, the book immerses you in a world of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie.
I especially appreciated the book’s candid exploration of the human experience during war—letters to his wife, reflections on his shipmates, and personal accounts of heroism and heartbreak. War in Our Wake is not just a historical account; it’s a tribute to those who fought and sacrificed, and it’s written in a way that’s both accessible and deeply moving.
This book is essential for anyone interested in the Vietnam War, military history, or personal stories of duty and heroism.
February 1, 2025
Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake offers a heartfelt and thought-provoking journey into the closing chapters of the Vietnam War. His perspective as a naval officer aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert during this crucial time provides readers with a unique and personal view of the war’s final days.
What sets this book apart is its focus on both the big picture and the smaller, more intimate moments that are often lost in traditional history books. Malay does an excellent job of blending historical events with personal reflections, which makes the narrative both educational and emotionally compelling.
One of the most memorable parts of the book is the story of the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. This part of the story brings to light the humanity of those serving in the military, reminding us that war is not only about combat—it’s also about compassion and doing what’s right.
The inclusion of personal letters, ship logs, and reflections brings a level of authenticity to the book that many war memoirs lack. It’s a deeply human account that captures the essence of service and sacrifice. If you’re looking for a war memoir that’s both educational and emotionally moving, War in Our Wake is a must-read.
What sets this book apart is its focus on both the big picture and the smaller, more intimate moments that are often lost in traditional history books. Malay does an excellent job of blending historical events with personal reflections, which makes the narrative both educational and emotionally compelling.
One of the most memorable parts of the book is the story of the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. This part of the story brings to light the humanity of those serving in the military, reminding us that war is not only about combat—it’s also about compassion and doing what’s right.
The inclusion of personal letters, ship logs, and reflections brings a level of authenticity to the book that many war memoirs lack. It’s a deeply human account that captures the essence of service and sacrifice. If you’re looking for a war memoir that’s both educational and emotionally moving, War in Our Wake is a must-read.
February 1, 2025
War in Our Wake is an extraordinary memoir that provides an insider’s view of the Vietnam War’s final days, focusing on the personal experiences of a naval officer who served aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert. Jonathan Malay’s storytelling is captivating, and his ability to blend historical events with personal reflections makes this book stand out in the crowded genre of war memoirs.
What struck me most about this book was the way Malay brings his own humanity into the narrative. His letters to his wife, descriptions of life aboard the ship, and the bonds formed between his shipmates provide a level of emotional depth that is often missing from military histories.
The book also explores a remarkable humanitarian effort that saved more than 150 lives, underscoring the importance of compassion even in the midst of war. The combination of history, personal insight, and vivid storytelling makes War in Our Wake an unforgettable read.
This book will resonate with anyone interested in the Vietnam War, naval history, or stories of heroism and sacrifice. It’s a powerful tribute to the men and women who served during this critical time in history.
What struck me most about this book was the way Malay brings his own humanity into the narrative. His letters to his wife, descriptions of life aboard the ship, and the bonds formed between his shipmates provide a level of emotional depth that is often missing from military histories.
The book also explores a remarkable humanitarian effort that saved more than 150 lives, underscoring the importance of compassion even in the midst of war. The combination of history, personal insight, and vivid storytelling makes War in Our Wake an unforgettable read.
This book will resonate with anyone interested in the Vietnam War, naval history, or stories of heroism and sacrifice. It’s a powerful tribute to the men and women who served during this critical time in history.
February 5, 2025
Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake is a stunning and deeply personal account of the final days of the Vietnam War, told from the perspective of a young naval officer serving aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert. What makes this book stand out is its blend of military history, personal reflection, and emotional depth.
Malay takes readers on a journey through the tensions of the Vietnam War, the struggles of naval life, and the moments of camaraderie that made all the difference. He doesn’t just tell the story of the war—he shows it through the eyes of those who lived it, and the result is a powerful and moving narrative.
One of the most compelling parts of the book is the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. This story brings to light the compassion and courage that are often overshadowed by the violence of war. The book is filled with moments of heroism, heartbreak, and hope that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
War in Our Wake is an unforgettable read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War, military service, or personal stories of courage and sacrifice.
Malay takes readers on a journey through the tensions of the Vietnam War, the struggles of naval life, and the moments of camaraderie that made all the difference. He doesn’t just tell the story of the war—he shows it through the eyes of those who lived it, and the result is a powerful and moving narrative.
One of the most compelling parts of the book is the humanitarian mission that saved over 150 lives. This story brings to light the compassion and courage that are often overshadowed by the violence of war. The book is filled with moments of heroism, heartbreak, and hope that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
War in Our Wake is an unforgettable read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War, military service, or personal stories of courage and sacrifice.
February 5, 2025
This is A Story That Stays With You
War in Our Wake isn’t just another book about the Vietnam War—it’s a deeply personal and profoundly moving account of duty, survival, and the human cost of conflict. As someone who has read many war memoirs, I was struck by the emotional weight of this one. Malay’s firsthand perspective aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert brings the war to life in a way that feels both raw and intimate. His storytelling blends historical insight with personal reflection, making this book a must-read for anyone who wants to understand not just what happened, but how it felt to be there.
War in Our Wake isn’t just another book about the Vietnam War—it’s a deeply personal and profoundly moving account of duty, survival, and the human cost of conflict. As someone who has read many war memoirs, I was struck by the emotional weight of this one. Malay’s firsthand perspective aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert brings the war to life in a way that feels both raw and intimate. His storytelling blends historical insight with personal reflection, making this book a must-read for anyone who wants to understand not just what happened, but how it felt to be there.
February 5, 2025
What A Powerful Blend of History and Humanity
I picked up War in Our Wake expecting a military memoir, but what I got was so much more. Jonathan Malay’s ability to combine gripping historical details with deeply human moments is what makes this book exceptional. The tension of war, the camaraderie of sailors, and the personal sacrifices made by those serving are all captured beautifully. The chapter detailing the humanitarian rescue mission was especially moving—Malay doesn’t just recount history; he brings it to life with heart and authenticity. This book is as much about resilience as it is about war, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
I picked up War in Our Wake expecting a military memoir, but what I got was so much more. Jonathan Malay’s ability to combine gripping historical details with deeply human moments is what makes this book exceptional. The tension of war, the camaraderie of sailors, and the personal sacrifices made by those serving are all captured beautifully. The chapter detailing the humanitarian rescue mission was especially moving—Malay doesn’t just recount history; he brings it to life with heart and authenticity. This book is as much about resilience as it is about war, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
February 5, 2025
A Great-Read for History Buffs and Military Enthusiasts
From the first chapter, War in Our Wake pulled me in with its vivid descriptions and Malay’s compelling storytelling. His experiences aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert provide a unique and often overlooked perspective on the final days of the Vietnam War. What I appreciated most was how the book balances military history with personal reflection—it’s not just about war, but about the people who lived through it. Malay’s use of personal letters and ship logs adds a depth that makes this more than just a history book; it’s a tribute to those who served.
From the first chapter, War in Our Wake pulled me in with its vivid descriptions and Malay’s compelling storytelling. His experiences aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert provide a unique and often overlooked perspective on the final days of the Vietnam War. What I appreciated most was how the book balances military history with personal reflection—it’s not just about war, but about the people who lived through it. Malay’s use of personal letters and ship logs adds a depth that makes this more than just a history book; it’s a tribute to those who served.
February 5, 2025
Malay has written a book that is both historically significant and deeply personal. War in Our Wake is an unflinching look at the realities of war, from the adrenaline of naval operations to the quiet, reflective moments between missions. What sets this book apart is Malay’s ability to convey both the intensity of combat and the emotional toll it takes on those who serve. His descriptions are immersive, and his storytelling is gripping—I felt like I was right there on the deck of the Stoddert. Whether you’re a veteran, a student of history, or simply someone who appreciates a well-told story, this book is a must-read.
April 30, 2025
Interesting read, especially if you are looking to get a personal take on the final days of the Vietnam War. The author's private letters add an emotional glimpse into the toll that war takes on all of those involved.
I particularly enjoyed learning about the command structure on the ship and reading the technical information that the author discussed. I had never really learned much about the American Navy's activities in Vietnam so this added another dimension to the stories I grew up hearing from family who served.
My review is based on an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) which I received free of charge and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I particularly enjoyed learning about the command structure on the ship and reading the technical information that the author discussed. I had never really learned much about the American Navy's activities in Vietnam so this added another dimension to the stories I grew up hearing from family who served.
My review is based on an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) which I received free of charge and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 17, 2025
A well told history.
Having just finished reading this well written story, i can highly recommend it to anyone, interested in naval history. The story was told with clear, precice wording and imagery. As a former crew mate on the Benny Sweat, although approximately 3 years later, than the time depicted in this book, I can say that the author gave a good disruption of ship board life. The description at the end about the Stoddart's final day, brought a lump to my throat, recalling the first time I saw the description in Time magazine.
Having just finished reading this well written story, i can highly recommend it to anyone, interested in naval history. The story was told with clear, precice wording and imagery. As a former crew mate on the Benny Sweat, although approximately 3 years later, than the time depicted in this book, I can say that the author gave a good disruption of ship board life. The description at the end about the Stoddart's final day, brought a lump to my throat, recalling the first time I saw the description in Time magazine.
Want to read
February 3, 2025Jonathan Malay’s War in Our Wake is a gripping and deeply personal account of a chapter in military history that few people know about. As a former naval officer, Malay brings a unique insider’s perspective to the final days of the Vietnam War, and his storytelling is both vivid and heartfelt.
January 27, 2025
Very nice
January 28, 2025
Good book
February 4, 2025
I highly recommend this
February 12, 2025
Nice
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
I love this story.This story is based on true stories. Which gives pleasure to a reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews