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Bury Him: A Memoir of the Viet Nam War
A first-person account of what life was really like for Marine infantry units during this formative time of American and Vietnamese history.
"A combat veteran's astute look at the Vietnam War, both captivating and emotionally forthcoming." — Kirkus Reviews
Ordered to take command of a company of Marines, Capt. Doug Chamberlain endured many challenges. One challenge was a direct order to bury the remains of a Marine that had been left behind by another unit and be forced to participate in the following cover-up. The order was in direct contraction of United States Marine Corps Policy and the Warrior's Honor Code of never leaving any Marine behind. Following this order meant committing an act of incomprehensible betrayal and dishonor.
In this captivating new book, Capt. Chamberlain explains in detail the events that transpired as he was forced into playing the role of a political pawn in a massive wartime cover-up. Capt. Chamberlain expertly paints a picture of deceit and military malfeasance, sharing with the reader the moral and mental struggles that ate away at him in the decades that followed this horrible act.
"A combat veteran's astute look at the Vietnam War, both captivating and emotionally forthcoming." — Kirkus Reviews
Ordered to take command of a company of Marines, Capt. Doug Chamberlain endured many challenges. One challenge was a direct order to bury the remains of a Marine that had been left behind by another unit and be forced to participate in the following cover-up. The order was in direct contraction of United States Marine Corps Policy and the Warrior's Honor Code of never leaving any Marine behind. Following this order meant committing an act of incomprehensible betrayal and dishonor.
In this captivating new book, Capt. Chamberlain explains in detail the events that transpired as he was forced into playing the role of a political pawn in a massive wartime cover-up. Capt. Chamberlain expertly paints a picture of deceit and military malfeasance, sharing with the reader the moral and mental struggles that ate away at him in the decades that followed this horrible act.
348 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2019
560 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Doug Chamberlain
1 book9 followersDoug Chamberlain, the grandson of homesteaders in eastern Wyoming and western Nebraska, grew up with the "country values" instilled in him in the rural environment of a very small community. Even though there were only 10 students in his high school graduating class, several of his classmates pursued careers, public service, and military service that took them to various locations around the world. His rural values and the foundational reinforcement of those values at the University of Wyoming and John Brown University proved to be tested in their entirety when he became a Marine Infantry Officer in the Viet Nam War. His life changing experiences in that war proved to haunt him during his search to solve a mystery that spanned 50 years...and Bury Him details the sordid facts and the horrible truth that had eluded him.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 18, 2020
Thank you Iread and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Bury Him: A Memoir of the Viet Nam War
By: Doug Chamberlain
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
Bury him. Two little words. Because of these words, Chamberlain suffered a lifetime of guilt, grief and regret. As a young man serving in the Marines in the Viet Nam War, Chamberlain followed orders that would haunt him. This book is Chamberlain's account of his time in the Viet Nam War and his efforts to put right the wrongs of long ago. The unimaginable horrors of war in the moment and in the PTSD that inevitably follows are described in such heartbreaking and tragic ways. These young men fought a war that was regrettable, to say the least, and they returned to a country that scorned them. Chamberlain relates this time period in such detail that it feels very real. I cannot imagine the things he and countless others experienced. I sincerely hope that giving a voice to his true story will help Chamberlain find peace and solace in this world. I am honored to have read this remarkable memoir. I have just recently read several books about the Viet Nam War. Bury Him came to me at exactly the right moment, as stories often do, and I learned a great deal from reading this book. I urge you to read it, too!
Bury Him: A Memoir of the Viet Nam War
By: Doug Chamberlain
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
Bury him. Two little words. Because of these words, Chamberlain suffered a lifetime of guilt, grief and regret. As a young man serving in the Marines in the Viet Nam War, Chamberlain followed orders that would haunt him. This book is Chamberlain's account of his time in the Viet Nam War and his efforts to put right the wrongs of long ago. The unimaginable horrors of war in the moment and in the PTSD that inevitably follows are described in such heartbreaking and tragic ways. These young men fought a war that was regrettable, to say the least, and they returned to a country that scorned them. Chamberlain relates this time period in such detail that it feels very real. I cannot imagine the things he and countless others experienced. I sincerely hope that giving a voice to his true story will help Chamberlain find peace and solace in this world. I am honored to have read this remarkable memoir. I have just recently read several books about the Viet Nam War. Bury Him came to me at exactly the right moment, as stories often do, and I learned a great deal from reading this book. I urge you to read it, too!
February 4, 2020
Interesting read
This book is very well written. The author knows the proper usage of the English language. But I feel the author has some real issues that he is dealing with. While the story of the abandoned Marine is appalling, Captain Chamberlain made it right and got the boy home. It seems like he has wasted 50 years of his life trying to make someone accountable. In war, stuff happens. And it's not always good. Unfortunately, this travesty has apparently been an all-consuming project of the author to place blame. I hope by writing this book that Captain Chamberlain can move on and enjoy these later years of his life. Through his memoir you can tell that he was an excellent Marine and I thank you Captain Chamberlain for your service and sacrifice. Welcome home!
This book is very well written. The author knows the proper usage of the English language. But I feel the author has some real issues that he is dealing with. While the story of the abandoned Marine is appalling, Captain Chamberlain made it right and got the boy home. It seems like he has wasted 50 years of his life trying to make someone accountable. In war, stuff happens. And it's not always good. Unfortunately, this travesty has apparently been an all-consuming project of the author to place blame. I hope by writing this book that Captain Chamberlain can move on and enjoy these later years of his life. Through his memoir you can tell that he was an excellent Marine and I thank you Captain Chamberlain for your service and sacrifice. Welcome home!
April 13, 2020
Bury Him is a journey through the struggles, pains and missions through the Vietnam War as seen through the eyes of Captain Chamberlain.
As a Canadian, we do not learn about the Vietnam War in school so most of what I knew about this war was from reading online and media. Reading through this book, it gave me time to look up events and some of the history during this time period to get a better understanding of what is told to us in this autiobiography.
While all conflict is full of pain and suffering, my heart goes out to Captain Chamberlain and those who served during this time period. They were young men who were asked to serve their country, they did so without argument and faced horrors, found themselves caught up in politics and faced hate from their own countrymen (which we were exposed to several times through the story). I can’t even begin to be able to understand or relate on how this has impacted their lives, but this book gives us some insight into this.
Captain Chamberlain gives us a good history of how he found himself serving as a Marine. I really enjoyed learning about the training and the build up to the war. He has a quiet, determined personality with a sense of responsibility and strong morals that shines throughout his book. He cares for others and is determined to do what is right. He is determined to protect those who have been assigned to him and does everything he can to ensure their safety and well being. He is strict with his men but it all has a greater purpose, to ensure the safety of each Marine so that they could go home. He is strict but fair – he stretches the rules to ensure that each of his men are taken care of.
The chapters flow together well and the background that he gives us serves to help us understand that moment when he was given the orders to bury a fellow Marine instead of bringing the body home. It is this moment and orders that is the centre of his book and the investigations that lead from it. This event leads to a great deal of anxiety, anger and desire to make things right for that Marine’s family members.
This is an incredible autobiography, it is honest, raw and gives us a deeper look at the lives of those who served during the Vietnam War. We gain first hand knowledge of their struggles, pains, losses and how this impacted each of them differently. Captain Chamberlain is a man of honour and responsibility. We see this through his actions during the war and the dedication he had ensuring closure for the family of an abandoned Marine. This is a well written book and I wish him all the best, thank you for your service and the work you have done after.
As a Canadian, we do not learn about the Vietnam War in school so most of what I knew about this war was from reading online and media. Reading through this book, it gave me time to look up events and some of the history during this time period to get a better understanding of what is told to us in this autiobiography.
While all conflict is full of pain and suffering, my heart goes out to Captain Chamberlain and those who served during this time period. They were young men who were asked to serve their country, they did so without argument and faced horrors, found themselves caught up in politics and faced hate from their own countrymen (which we were exposed to several times through the story). I can’t even begin to be able to understand or relate on how this has impacted their lives, but this book gives us some insight into this.
Captain Chamberlain gives us a good history of how he found himself serving as a Marine. I really enjoyed learning about the training and the build up to the war. He has a quiet, determined personality with a sense of responsibility and strong morals that shines throughout his book. He cares for others and is determined to do what is right. He is determined to protect those who have been assigned to him and does everything he can to ensure their safety and well being. He is strict with his men but it all has a greater purpose, to ensure the safety of each Marine so that they could go home. He is strict but fair – he stretches the rules to ensure that each of his men are taken care of.
The chapters flow together well and the background that he gives us serves to help us understand that moment when he was given the orders to bury a fellow Marine instead of bringing the body home. It is this moment and orders that is the centre of his book and the investigations that lead from it. This event leads to a great deal of anxiety, anger and desire to make things right for that Marine’s family members.
This is an incredible autobiography, it is honest, raw and gives us a deeper look at the lives of those who served during the Vietnam War. We gain first hand knowledge of their struggles, pains, losses and how this impacted each of them differently. Captain Chamberlain is a man of honour and responsibility. We see this through his actions during the war and the dedication he had ensuring closure for the family of an abandoned Marine. This is a well written book and I wish him all the best, thank you for your service and the work you have done after.
April 22, 2020
I don't even know how to begin reviewing this book. This hit a personal note for me. While the war in Vietnam was ebbing by the time I hit high school in the US, I still remember watching the last drafts on TV and wondering which of my older school mates would have to head to war. Then I remember in my 20's talking to Viet Nam vets and hearing how difficult it was coming home and the unforgivable discrimination they faced. But they NEVER spoke of their time there.
To read this book finally answers so many of the questions I had. There was so much misinformation in the media and most vets did not want to talk about what they experienced, especially with someone who hadn't been there and couldn't understand. I knew so many who were drafted. My heart went out to them and I wanted to better understand what they went through and what they were now dealing with because of it.
I was worried at first Bury Him would be just a chronological story of the author's time in Viet Nam, but quickly learned that was not the case. His story is told from the heart - with pride for the courage of the men he led and served with, and gratitude for the lives that were saved. But it also offers truth about the dark side of this war - honesty about the politics, the lack of proper equipment (one time they were told there would be no ammunition coming for awhile so they had to make what they had last - WHAT?), the bad decisions made by people in field offices who had never seen the terrain, the orders that were unsafe to follow, the cover-up of a marine left behind (absolutely against all policy), the medals never received or downgraded, and more.
And lastly it talks about how doing what you are ordered to do, and what is necessary to survive your tour, didn't mean you walked away unscathed. The author openly shares how his experiences and what was asked of him at times conflicted with his deep held beliefs, and how this internal conflict never left him once he was back home. It is a burden he has carried all his life and continues to impact his relationships with family and friends. Then there is his life long battle to control his PTSD episodes. He might have learned how to manage them, but the next episode is always lurking in the background.
I feel these stories by real people sharing their real life experiences are so very important. I highly recommend this book whether you want to know more about the Viet Nam War specifically or more importantly, to get an inside look at what a soldier faces. It is a rare and honest look at the enormous toll war takes on the men at the front lines. You will be changed.
To read this book finally answers so many of the questions I had. There was so much misinformation in the media and most vets did not want to talk about what they experienced, especially with someone who hadn't been there and couldn't understand. I knew so many who were drafted. My heart went out to them and I wanted to better understand what they went through and what they were now dealing with because of it.
I was worried at first Bury Him would be just a chronological story of the author's time in Viet Nam, but quickly learned that was not the case. His story is told from the heart - with pride for the courage of the men he led and served with, and gratitude for the lives that were saved. But it also offers truth about the dark side of this war - honesty about the politics, the lack of proper equipment (one time they were told there would be no ammunition coming for awhile so they had to make what they had last - WHAT?), the bad decisions made by people in field offices who had never seen the terrain, the orders that were unsafe to follow, the cover-up of a marine left behind (absolutely against all policy), the medals never received or downgraded, and more.
And lastly it talks about how doing what you are ordered to do, and what is necessary to survive your tour, didn't mean you walked away unscathed. The author openly shares how his experiences and what was asked of him at times conflicted with his deep held beliefs, and how this internal conflict never left him once he was back home. It is a burden he has carried all his life and continues to impact his relationships with family and friends. Then there is his life long battle to control his PTSD episodes. He might have learned how to manage them, but the next episode is always lurking in the background.
I feel these stories by real people sharing their real life experiences are so very important. I highly recommend this book whether you want to know more about the Viet Nam War specifically or more importantly, to get an inside look at what a soldier faces. It is a rare and honest look at the enormous toll war takes on the men at the front lines. You will be changed.
April 17, 2020
Many avoid past events because many are unpleasant. History repeats itself! If we are to avoid making the same destructive mistakes of others, we must learn from historical events.
The Viet Nam War was a regrettable mistake, created and prolonged by greedy, corrupt leaders in politics. It is why today so many are striving to "clear out the swamp" of politicians and special interest groups who have lost integrity and the meaning of "serving the people" .
This book is a remarkable account of one man who strives to be principled, honest, deserving of trust and is forever enduring the aftermath of having to be a part of a dreadful war.
In his account, he touches on a topic very important to many of the U.S. citizens... The treatment then and now of Viet Nam Veterans. Men and women who felt they were serving and giving their lives for the people in, and the welfare of, their country, returned home, to be scoffed at, spit on, belittled for what the political leaders did, instead of honored for their sincere sense of duty. They have not received the needed and earned mental and health care from the horrors they endured. They were left on their own to suffer through the trauma and pain.
In his book, Captain Chamberlain witnesses and experiences things which challenged his respect of authority and of patriotism. However, the things he feels guilt over is unfounded. He was not the one accountable for certain orders. He dd all he could to make things right... even to the writing of this book. The government are the ones now responsible to open the records and correct nay misrepresentation and wrong doing.
This is an outstanding memoir, highly recommended for ALL - both young and elderly - to read and learn from. This man is the type of leader we need to put into positions of leadership. He has the principles and integrity the Founders of our country intended.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
The Viet Nam War was a regrettable mistake, created and prolonged by greedy, corrupt leaders in politics. It is why today so many are striving to "clear out the swamp" of politicians and special interest groups who have lost integrity and the meaning of "serving the people" .
This book is a remarkable account of one man who strives to be principled, honest, deserving of trust and is forever enduring the aftermath of having to be a part of a dreadful war.
In his account, he touches on a topic very important to many of the U.S. citizens... The treatment then and now of Viet Nam Veterans. Men and women who felt they were serving and giving their lives for the people in, and the welfare of, their country, returned home, to be scoffed at, spit on, belittled for what the political leaders did, instead of honored for their sincere sense of duty. They have not received the needed and earned mental and health care from the horrors they endured. They were left on their own to suffer through the trauma and pain.
In his book, Captain Chamberlain witnesses and experiences things which challenged his respect of authority and of patriotism. However, the things he feels guilt over is unfounded. He was not the one accountable for certain orders. He dd all he could to make things right... even to the writing of this book. The government are the ones now responsible to open the records and correct nay misrepresentation and wrong doing.
This is an outstanding memoir, highly recommended for ALL - both young and elderly - to read and learn from. This man is the type of leader we need to put into positions of leadership. He has the principles and integrity the Founders of our country intended.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
September 24, 2021
Heroes
This book is a true to life story of a group of young Marines doing their duty. Hard to put down. Thank You Captain.
This book is a true to life story of a group of young Marines doing their duty. Hard to put down. Thank You Captain.
March 24, 2020
Integrity
What stands out in this book is. Truth. I was an infantryman with the 1st infantry division in Vietnam 1965to 1966. Somebody once said that the first victim in war is the truth and that was certainly true about Vietnam. Vietnam was an economic war and the people who sent us there were part of the military industrial complex. Jack Kennedy lost his life because he said he would not commit ground troops . Jack Kennedy was naive. It still goes on today. Obama was given the message, and so was Trump.
What stands out in this book is. Truth. I was an infantryman with the 1st infantry division in Vietnam 1965to 1966. Somebody once said that the first victim in war is the truth and that was certainly true about Vietnam. Vietnam was an economic war and the people who sent us there were part of the military industrial complex. Jack Kennedy lost his life because he said he would not commit ground troops . Jack Kennedy was naive. It still goes on today. Obama was given the message, and so was Trump.
April 26, 2020
I thought this is a very poignant true-to-life narration of a military man's experience of the Vietnam War and its after effects in the lives of those who fought in it.
'Bury him,' that command from many years ago still resonates in his mind even after the war. Chamberlain has written a vivid personal story of his encounters in the battlefields of the Vietnam War. Every veteran soldier has his story to tell and Chamberlain's memory of this particular event is seared deep in his conscience, a reason why it emotionally and mentally troubled him for a long time. For a fact, all soldiers who go to war are motivated by their ideals and appetite for heroism with confidence that the 'ultimate honor they will be given is the return of their remains to their families and their country no matter what and as they hold on to the military principle that no one will be left behind' . But to witness a country's betrayal point blank in the middle of the battlefield is 'most devastating and unthinkable not only for him but also for his fellow marines. Chamberlain makes us understand that horrific situations in war which soldiers have no control or jurisdiction whatsoever leave them helpless and broken. Such is the sad truth about war and the challenges that soldiers must face. These traumatic situations when left unforgiven and untreated can be what Chamberlain referred to as 'psychologically damaging' becoming the so called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that many soldiers have come to experience.
One can't help help feel empathy towards his situation where it is true that only a few can understand the disorder as he admitted that he attempted to confide in one of his daughters but only to be dismissed. Even 'spiritual leaders who helped shaped his religious beliefs shunned him. It made him choose to believe that they did not understand the scope of what he was dealing with.'
He narrates that his 'feelings of inadequacy, sense of failure, and the intense shame that he felt constantly made him struggle with thoughts of how meaningless his life has been because of the burial.' His personal struggle with PTSD and its effects in his life, I believe would be something many veterans can relate to and find some light. As Chamberlain shares that his years of public service helped him deal with PTSD and gave him the courage to continue saying, “It was what it was, and it is what it is.” Tomorrow is yet another day to continue on.
Doug Chamberlain gives us a profound insight into his life experiences so much affected by the memories of war. It also allows us to better understand their humanity in view of their own personal struggles as they come to terms with themselves and the people around them.
'Bury him,' that command from many years ago still resonates in his mind even after the war. Chamberlain has written a vivid personal story of his encounters in the battlefields of the Vietnam War. Every veteran soldier has his story to tell and Chamberlain's memory of this particular event is seared deep in his conscience, a reason why it emotionally and mentally troubled him for a long time. For a fact, all soldiers who go to war are motivated by their ideals and appetite for heroism with confidence that the 'ultimate honor they will be given is the return of their remains to their families and their country no matter what and as they hold on to the military principle that no one will be left behind' . But to witness a country's betrayal point blank in the middle of the battlefield is 'most devastating and unthinkable not only for him but also for his fellow marines. Chamberlain makes us understand that horrific situations in war which soldiers have no control or jurisdiction whatsoever leave them helpless and broken. Such is the sad truth about war and the challenges that soldiers must face. These traumatic situations when left unforgiven and untreated can be what Chamberlain referred to as 'psychologically damaging' becoming the so called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that many soldiers have come to experience.
One can't help help feel empathy towards his situation where it is true that only a few can understand the disorder as he admitted that he attempted to confide in one of his daughters but only to be dismissed. Even 'spiritual leaders who helped shaped his religious beliefs shunned him. It made him choose to believe that they did not understand the scope of what he was dealing with.'
He narrates that his 'feelings of inadequacy, sense of failure, and the intense shame that he felt constantly made him struggle with thoughts of how meaningless his life has been because of the burial.' His personal struggle with PTSD and its effects in his life, I believe would be something many veterans can relate to and find some light. As Chamberlain shares that his years of public service helped him deal with PTSD and gave him the courage to continue saying, “It was what it was, and it is what it is.” Tomorrow is yet another day to continue on.
Doug Chamberlain gives us a profound insight into his life experiences so much affected by the memories of war. It also allows us to better understand their humanity in view of their own personal struggles as they come to terms with themselves and the people around them.
October 8, 2020
“Bury Him: a memoir of the Viet Nam War,” by La Grange, Wyoming author, Doug Chamberlain tells the story of his experiences during the war in 1967 and 1968, including the Tet Offensive and Da Nang. I like a book with maps in the front, and this book didn’t disappoint.
This is the second first-person war memoir I have read this year. Both of them had similar themes concerning the author's frustration at the larger aspects of war. Each highlighted failures of the highest commanders being cavalier with the lives of their soldiers and how those further down in command worked to cover up their mistakes and laid blame on others. Chamberlain also addressed how veterans were treated when they came back from war. I don’t remember reading war memoirs in the past that addressed the shortcomings of the government in the way that these two books did.
I don’t think I have read a Viet Nam book before, but I learned a lot from Captain Chamberlain’s earnest account of his stint in Viet Nam. He did a good job of balancing the troubling aspects of war with his innovative ways to support and protect his men.
Chamberlain wrote about the multiple shortcomings of the Viet Nam-era Marine issued M-16 guns and then noted that the Marines were supplied a limited number of rounds each month. Frustrated by this, Captain Chamberlain, with his men’s safety in mind, allowed them to use the more reliable guns (AK-47s, M-1 and M-2s among others) they captured from the enemy. Two Lieutenant Colonels saw one of his men carrying an illicit gun and Chamberlain was called to headquarters to explain why his Marine was carrying the gun to his Colonel.
“I told him as long as I had a mission to accomplish, I was going to carry it out to the best of my ability by providing for the safety of my men. I told him we were using weapons that were reliable and functional, and for which we could obtain our own ammunition. He paused for a few seconds, and then said, ‘Alright you dumb S.O.B, but don’t get caught at it again!’”
I don’t know how the VA treated WWII vets, but they utterly failed Chamberlain and other Viet Nam vets. Our country asked these men to sacrifice their young adulthood and then provided them with sub-standard health care, specifically in the mental health field. It left me lamenting the paucity of mental health care for our veterans, but also the lack of accountability the government exhibits towards the aftermath of veteran’s experience.
I listened to this book. The reader did an excellent job, keeping the narrative engaging while navigating the author’s very formal writing style. Chamberlain went to great effort to provide documentation for his claims. Even without the documentation I believed him.
This is the second first-person war memoir I have read this year. Both of them had similar themes concerning the author's frustration at the larger aspects of war. Each highlighted failures of the highest commanders being cavalier with the lives of their soldiers and how those further down in command worked to cover up their mistakes and laid blame on others. Chamberlain also addressed how veterans were treated when they came back from war. I don’t remember reading war memoirs in the past that addressed the shortcomings of the government in the way that these two books did.
I don’t think I have read a Viet Nam book before, but I learned a lot from Captain Chamberlain’s earnest account of his stint in Viet Nam. He did a good job of balancing the troubling aspects of war with his innovative ways to support and protect his men.
Chamberlain wrote about the multiple shortcomings of the Viet Nam-era Marine issued M-16 guns and then noted that the Marines were supplied a limited number of rounds each month. Frustrated by this, Captain Chamberlain, with his men’s safety in mind, allowed them to use the more reliable guns (AK-47s, M-1 and M-2s among others) they captured from the enemy. Two Lieutenant Colonels saw one of his men carrying an illicit gun and Chamberlain was called to headquarters to explain why his Marine was carrying the gun to his Colonel.
“I told him as long as I had a mission to accomplish, I was going to carry it out to the best of my ability by providing for the safety of my men. I told him we were using weapons that were reliable and functional, and for which we could obtain our own ammunition. He paused for a few seconds, and then said, ‘Alright you dumb S.O.B, but don’t get caught at it again!’”
I don’t know how the VA treated WWII vets, but they utterly failed Chamberlain and other Viet Nam vets. Our country asked these men to sacrifice their young adulthood and then provided them with sub-standard health care, specifically in the mental health field. It left me lamenting the paucity of mental health care for our veterans, but also the lack of accountability the government exhibits towards the aftermath of veteran’s experience.
I listened to this book. The reader did an excellent job, keeping the narrative engaging while navigating the author’s very formal writing style. Chamberlain went to great effort to provide documentation for his claims. Even without the documentation I believed him.
April 23, 2020
Captain Chamberlain Opens His Viet Nam Story To Readers. Personally, looking back, I know that my stepfather rarely talked about his experiences in Viet Nam--and I can still remember him saying once when my Mom tried to open a conversation about it-- "I don't want to talk about it. I don't want to talk about any of it. End of subject." Aside from telling my husband a couple of stories and talking about a dog that hung out on base--he never spoke about it. To read the author's personal story--from the very beginning through years of life past the conflict--I found a candid, open look at a challenging experience. Knowing how difficult it must have been for him to revisit so many memories as he documented them for readers, my heart went out to him throughout the book.
Bury Him is a Well Organized, Well Written Memoir. I love memoirs. I love sharing moments and memories of someone's life. Many memoirs meander and drift from time to time--sharing random thoughts and points from a life's journey. Chamberlain's writing style is neat and organized as he moves through his life and his experiences through well-written pages. Despite the orderly fashion--he writes from a straight point of view. He shares not only the events he faced over time--but how he processed those events and how he made attempts to cope with guilt and fix wrongs that his conscience held onto over time.
Would I Recommend Bury Him by Captain Doug Chamberlain? Every person processes the events of their life differently. The author shares his authentic experiences and his thoughts and motivations that weighed and guided him through his life. I think memoirs like these are so significant for us all to learn from and share. If you enjoy memoirs and have an interest in accounts from the Viet Nam War--I certainly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
Bury Him is a Well Organized, Well Written Memoir. I love memoirs. I love sharing moments and memories of someone's life. Many memoirs meander and drift from time to time--sharing random thoughts and points from a life's journey. Chamberlain's writing style is neat and organized as he moves through his life and his experiences through well-written pages. Despite the orderly fashion--he writes from a straight point of view. He shares not only the events he faced over time--but how he processed those events and how he made attempts to cope with guilt and fix wrongs that his conscience held onto over time.
Would I Recommend Bury Him by Captain Doug Chamberlain? Every person processes the events of their life differently. The author shares his authentic experiences and his thoughts and motivations that weighed and guided him through his life. I think memoirs like these are so significant for us all to learn from and share. If you enjoy memoirs and have an interest in accounts from the Viet Nam War--I certainly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
April 29, 2020
How do you a review such as this?
This was hands down, unlike anything I have read before. I have read a memoir or two before, but none such as this.
The book wasn’t quite a story, but I felt more of a recounting of events and memories in a chronological order. It was more of a personal experience going through a journey that unless you have ever been on yourself; would not and could not imagine what goes on.
While the book and contents itself intrigued me and I enjoyed reading it; it definitely provided a wide array of opinions and emotions.
The book follows Doug’s life growing up, finishing school, becoming a teacher, being drafted, getting married, training, climbing the ladder in the Marines (faster than he expected), politics, war, death – the whole gamut that comes with being drafted.
It definitely provided me an entirely new viewpoint. I wasn’t alive during that time (even my mom was a toddler to young child during that time) so I have no first hand experience and cannot recall any family (or any living relative at this time) who could speak first hand of what being drafted and sent off was like.
I have had friends currently serve in the Armed Forces, but it isn’t anything they want to talk about and I have seen first hand the mental and psychological damage that is left in the aftermath.
The book provides first hand experience of being behind enemy lines; fighting in war.
This was a totally different book than I am used to, but one I am glad I was able to read. I am definitely going to be passing it on to hubby as it is definitely a book that he will enjoy. (It also provides a totally different and new appreciation for our past, current and future armed forces).
This was hands down, unlike anything I have read before. I have read a memoir or two before, but none such as this.
The book wasn’t quite a story, but I felt more of a recounting of events and memories in a chronological order. It was more of a personal experience going through a journey that unless you have ever been on yourself; would not and could not imagine what goes on.
While the book and contents itself intrigued me and I enjoyed reading it; it definitely provided a wide array of opinions and emotions.
The book follows Doug’s life growing up, finishing school, becoming a teacher, being drafted, getting married, training, climbing the ladder in the Marines (faster than he expected), politics, war, death – the whole gamut that comes with being drafted.
It definitely provided me an entirely new viewpoint. I wasn’t alive during that time (even my mom was a toddler to young child during that time) so I have no first hand experience and cannot recall any family (or any living relative at this time) who could speak first hand of what being drafted and sent off was like.
I have had friends currently serve in the Armed Forces, but it isn’t anything they want to talk about and I have seen first hand the mental and psychological damage that is left in the aftermath.
The book provides first hand experience of being behind enemy lines; fighting in war.
This was a totally different book than I am used to, but one I am glad I was able to read. I am definitely going to be passing it on to hubby as it is definitely a book that he will enjoy. (It also provides a totally different and new appreciation for our past, current and future armed forces).
April 24, 2020
Bury Him: A Memoir of the Viet Nam War by Captain Doug Chamberlain was an interesting read. I enjoyed reading about the Captain’s life and his time serving in the Vietnam War. It is not an easy book to read. I had to put it down from time to time to think about what I had just read. It was kind of difficult to get through sometimes. The reason being the book dealt with some of the heavy issues within the pages. It deals with quite a bit of some events that I could never understand or imagine. Only those who lived through it would be able to know what the Captain had gone through during that time. He did not hold back and I admire how he was able to describe how he felt and what it was like.
I am giving Bury Him: A Memoir of the Viet Nam War four and a half stars. I recommend it. Especially, to readers who are veterans or know someone who endured such struggles and tragedies of war. I really believe it should be read be read by all because it was an important time in American History. I will be passing the copy I received for this review on to my step father, who is a Vietnam Veteran. I know he will be reluctant to open the pages at first, but will be glad he did once he starts reading it.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
July 2, 2021
Viet Nam was a war that affected me in many ways with several of my family members and close friends serving their country during this time. Some of whom never made it home alive and all of whom came home affected in ways that I was not able to understand. The author brought a whole new understanding to me of why most upon return home were unable to talk about what they saw, lived and went through during their tour of duty there. While I was aware of some who protested and thought the war was wrong, I didn't truly understand how deeply their ignorance affected returning veterans. This author brought a whole new understanding of it. With my youngest grandchild just in the middle of boot camp after joining the marines, the book has also brought a whole new understanding of the oath, commitment and love that marines have for each of their "brothers". I am extremely proud of my grandson and can only hope he does not have to serve our country in the same way we asked of my brothers and some of my closest friends during the War in Viet Nam. Please read this book so you can better understand our vets and how shamefully we have treated them after they gave so much for their country.
May 30, 2022
BURY HIM: A MEMOIR OF THE VIETNAM WAR by Doug Chamberlain is an exceptional story about the captain's personal and military life. Promoted to captain, the Marines assigned the author to lead an infantry company in Vietnam. For him, he had much to prove, as he never led Marines in combat. He learned to trust in his NCOs and take care of his people; sending misfits and slackers to the rear. He soon gained their trust and made it easy to follow him.
Capt. Chamberlain provides readers with chronological events of his time in the field which are profound and captivating. When his unit comes upon the remains of a Marine in the field, his superior orders him to bury the corpse and forget about it. This goes against the Marine code to leave no man behind. When he returns to the rear, he is obsessed with retrieving the body and finds that the Marines are covering up an earlier mishap. "THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE" is a quote that ends up ruining the captain's military career and carrying over into his civilian life.
It filled his last few decades with guilt, grief, and regret as he tried to put this behind him. His story is emotional and profound, a great read to see how he coped with and finally overcame this travesty.
Capt. Chamberlain provides readers with chronological events of his time in the field which are profound and captivating. When his unit comes upon the remains of a Marine in the field, his superior orders him to bury the corpse and forget about it. This goes against the Marine code to leave no man behind. When he returns to the rear, he is obsessed with retrieving the body and finds that the Marines are covering up an earlier mishap. "THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE" is a quote that ends up ruining the captain's military career and carrying over into his civilian life.
It filled his last few decades with guilt, grief, and regret as he tried to put this behind him. His story is emotional and profound, a great read to see how he coped with and finally overcame this travesty.
January 31, 2023
A very well written book that exposed a cover-up by officers that were not in the field. It left several Marines with a loss of faith in their Corp. Captain Chamberlain did everything he was told to do but also did everything he could to make it right. He has nothing to be ashamed of, nothing! In 1965 most of my friends were joining rather than being drafted or would in the next few years. I was not physically qualified although I both joined and was drafted, only to be rejected both times. All of us welcomed home our friends but some pulled away from the group and sad as that was, we understood, after all most of our dad's served in WWII. I feel bad for those who felt so unwelcome coming home, they deserved so much more.
Captain Chamberlain also alludes to the treachery of those in office. That has only gotten worse over the years and the hope is that the military will be there for the citizens one day. Small hope but hope, nevertheless. Thank you, Captain, for your service, your integrity and your honesty. You are among those that make us a great country.
Captain Chamberlain also alludes to the treachery of those in office. That has only gotten worse over the years and the hope is that the military will be there for the citizens one day. Small hope but hope, nevertheless. Thank you, Captain, for your service, your integrity and your honesty. You are among those that make us a great country.
March 31, 2020
I don’t think I’ll ever be as brave and as forthright like Chamberlain.
This autobiography is honest, memorable and interesting, to say the least.
As we dive into the first few chapters, we view Chamberlain’s early life, before the big moments, before the suffering, into innocence and normality. Chamberlain’s story is a part of our history, something that will be remembered for years to come. He speaks of his family, his friends, his fellow soldiers on the battlefield, and even of strangers, who were with him on the journey of life.
There will always be a few problems on the way, Chamberlain teaches, but, find your strength throughout the horrors, to overcome obstacles. Impossible is important, remember that!
All in all, I loved reading about Chamberlain and what he faced. I hope and pray for others alongside him, who are trying their best to fight the darkness. May you be supported and saved.
This autobiography is honest, memorable and interesting, to say the least.
As we dive into the first few chapters, we view Chamberlain’s early life, before the big moments, before the suffering, into innocence and normality. Chamberlain’s story is a part of our history, something that will be remembered for years to come. He speaks of his family, his friends, his fellow soldiers on the battlefield, and even of strangers, who were with him on the journey of life.
There will always be a few problems on the way, Chamberlain teaches, but, find your strength throughout the horrors, to overcome obstacles. Impossible is important, remember that!
All in all, I loved reading about Chamberlain and what he faced. I hope and pray for others alongside him, who are trying their best to fight the darkness. May you be supported and saved.
April 13, 2022
This is a harrowing memoir, not only because of the terrifying descriptions of combat, but also because Chamberlain is a Cassandra, telling truths that no one in the Marine establishment wanted to hear. His is the best window into PTSD; I almost felt in miniature his fifty years of anguish and despair.
Chamberlain's integrity shines through the book, though it does not enable him to be concise. He tends to see things in black and white, failing for example to see that many of the war protesters are on the same side as he is in viewing the deceptions perpetrated on the American people by our leadership. I was thinking, during that war, in black and white, too, unable to tease out the honor of those who served in the military from the political policies which betrayed us all.
You will not sleep well after reading Chamberlain's well-researched and passionately accurate memoir -- and that's a good thing!
Chamberlain's integrity shines through the book, though it does not enable him to be concise. He tends to see things in black and white, failing for example to see that many of the war protesters are on the same side as he is in viewing the deceptions perpetrated on the American people by our leadership. I was thinking, during that war, in black and white, too, unable to tease out the honor of those who served in the military from the political policies which betrayed us all.
You will not sleep well after reading Chamberlain's well-researched and passionately accurate memoir -- and that's a good thing!
April 21, 2020
I am a fan of military books. Yet, I have read more books about WWI and WWII than most of the other wars. Therefore, my knowledge of the Viet Nam war is one that I am not familiar with. Captain Doug Chamberlain gives readers like me a good wealth of knowledge and insight into this war.
The chapters are short and thus makes this a fast read. Although, the other reason that I read this book so fast was because I did find this an interesting read. I did not feel like there was any political motives or thoughts interjected into this book.
Captain Doug Chamberlain shares with readers, the good with the bad times and even the questionable ones. He does not shy away from anything. Which makes for a good read. This way I never felt like anything was missing or glossed over just to make a good book. Fans of military books will want to pick up a copy of this book to read for themselves.
The chapters are short and thus makes this a fast read. Although, the other reason that I read this book so fast was because I did find this an interesting read. I did not feel like there was any political motives or thoughts interjected into this book.
Captain Doug Chamberlain shares with readers, the good with the bad times and even the questionable ones. He does not shy away from anything. Which makes for a good read. This way I never felt like anything was missing or glossed over just to make a good book. Fans of military books will want to pick up a copy of this book to read for themselves.
February 24, 2020
“ Obcession” is a better title for this yarn.
The author lets the reader hanging time after time when describing incidents that happened on his watch without telling us the outcome. Such as when his company s amushec on Go Noi island at the railroad track area and he calls in artillery and close air support by the ton on the close by enemy. But does not explain the results very well, or f any patrols were sent in to ascertain BDA... Plus he is overly obsessed with PFC Kelly and what happened to him under extreme combat duress. It was not uncommon to obliterate friendly KIA when impossible to retrieve the remains either. Hundreds of Marines and soldiers were buried in unmarked graves in North Korea in the winter of 1950 when necessary.
The author lets the reader hanging time after time when describing incidents that happened on his watch without telling us the outcome. Such as when his company s amushec on Go Noi island at the railroad track area and he calls in artillery and close air support by the ton on the close by enemy. But does not explain the results very well, or f any patrols were sent in to ascertain BDA... Plus he is overly obsessed with PFC Kelly and what happened to him under extreme combat duress. It was not uncommon to obliterate friendly KIA when impossible to retrieve the remains either. Hundreds of Marines and soldiers were buried in unmarked graves in North Korea in the winter of 1950 when necessary.
April 11, 2022
Thank you Captain Chamberlain. Thank you for your service. Thank you for your story. Thank you for loyalty to the Marines and your Country and your faith.
I am the wife of an Army Veteran. War effects so many people and the ones most effected are too often just supposed to take it and move on.
PTSD is real and should be understood. These memories don’t just fade away. They change who you are.
War takes away innocence and hope.
Anyway….. I would suggest this be read and and studied and understood. This is one of the hardest books I’ve ever tried to review. It puts such a real life perspective on things and it makes me wonder - how many veterans I have passed and not acknowledged their struggle.
I am the wife of an Army Veteran. War effects so many people and the ones most effected are too often just supposed to take it and move on.
PTSD is real and should be understood. These memories don’t just fade away. They change who you are.
War takes away innocence and hope.
Anyway….. I would suggest this be read and and studied and understood. This is one of the hardest books I’ve ever tried to review. It puts such a real life perspective on things and it makes me wonder - how many veterans I have passed and not acknowledged their struggle.
August 21, 2020
I have read many books by authors who served as either officers or enlisted men in Viet Nam. For the most part this is a middle of the road narrative when it relates Captain Chamberlains war experiences. Where it is really gripping and must read is his after war struggles with PTSD and even more interesting and compelling is his honorable crusade relative to PFC Kelly, the subject his book title is based on. Any more review depth would definitely contain spoilers so will just say that part of the story is worth getting the book for. If Captain Chamberlain ever reads this review: THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE
September 3, 2020
Doug Chamberlain's memoir of his time as a Marine in Vietnam is compelling reading. He gives a first-hand account of his tour as a captain on the front lines of this confusing war. I was impressed that he and his comrades seemed in constant peril with few friendly encounters with the local population or even forces allied with the U.S. The experience of combat, and especially the coverup of a dead Marine being left on the battlefield, had a profound impact on Chamberlain. Although a success in some ways, he struggled emotionally in the years after the war. In this book, he attempts to set the record straight on the episode that has haunted him.
February 19, 2020
Realistic painful read about Marines in Vietnam
The author has written a compelling book in which he reveals his intelligence, his experiences, and his pain. In reading his book, I couldn’t help but think of his pain and the pain suffered by so many other veterans and their families, as a result of this conflict. He brought out so many issues about what went dreadfully wrong 52 years ago that I am sure he will carry his burdens for the rest of his life, with honor. I highly recommend this book.
The author has written a compelling book in which he reveals his intelligence, his experiences, and his pain. In reading his book, I couldn’t help but think of his pain and the pain suffered by so many other veterans and their families, as a result of this conflict. He brought out so many issues about what went dreadfully wrong 52 years ago that I am sure he will carry his burdens for the rest of his life, with honor. I highly recommend this book.
June 19, 2020
The Hardest Assignment as a Company Commander
Of all the books I have read about people's lives in Vietnam, THIS BOOK HAS TO BE THE BEST ONE I HAVE EVER READ. Being a Vietnam veteran in the Navy. This book opened my eyes to things I never knew happened.
It was well written and it brought out a lot of my emotions from the 2 tours I had made to Vietnam. I think this book should be read by any Vietnam veteran and have them compare their tour or tours that Captain Chamberlain's 13 month tour was like.
Of all the books I have read about people's lives in Vietnam, THIS BOOK HAS TO BE THE BEST ONE I HAVE EVER READ. Being a Vietnam veteran in the Navy. This book opened my eyes to things I never knew happened.
It was well written and it brought out a lot of my emotions from the 2 tours I had made to Vietnam. I think this book should be read by any Vietnam veteran and have them compare their tour or tours that Captain Chamberlain's 13 month tour was like.
October 13, 2021
Thank you Goodreads for this eye-opening e book about Doug Chamberlain’s experience as a Marine in the Viet Nam War. Doug’s accounts of the battles he fought seem gritty and real. His mental battle about the Marine he was ordered to bury is gut-wrenching, as is his development of PTSD.
A very worthy book to read about the fighting in the Viet Nam War and the betrayal to the average soldier by our government.
A very worthy book to read about the fighting in the Viet Nam War and the betrayal to the average soldier by our government.
May 6, 2022
Being a Vietnam Vet myself, I can visualize some of this book. Some of the "returning" incidents happened to me also. Because of the opposition to the was here at home, left some bad feelings for all of us. The cover-up I can't comment on as I am not aware of any of the incidents, but with some of the books I have read lately concerning some of the things that happened during those years, I am not that sure if this was just another incident or what.
August 1, 2023
Bury Him is a powerful story, precise, informative, and engaging, told with an excellent blend of clarity and passion. A pleasure to read.
I would not presume to understand the very personal, first-hand experience the author confronted, in the most difficult of circumstances, that placed him in such a painful moral dilemma---one that clearly haunts him to this day. I do, however, admire his honesty, tenacity, and compassion for the family of a fallen Marine.
I would not presume to understand the very personal, first-hand experience the author confronted, in the most difficult of circumstances, that placed him in such a painful moral dilemma---one that clearly haunts him to this day. I do, however, admire his honesty, tenacity, and compassion for the family of a fallen Marine.
March 30, 2021
I do not normally read these kinds of books. I mainly read it due to my father in laws affiliation to the story. Wow! Even though I felt like I should have been doing a research paper whiling reading it I also found it to be riveting. The story is heartbreaking. But to every veteran that may be reading this review Thank You for your service to our country.
May 6, 2021
Excellent First Person Account
This was a very informative read. I really enjoyed how,this author delved into, not only his personal experiences in Vietnam, but the historical significance of the effect that this war had on a generation of young warriors. Very excellent reading. Semper Fi, Skipper.
This was a very informative read. I really enjoyed how,this author delved into, not only his personal experiences in Vietnam, but the historical significance of the effect that this war had on a generation of young warriors. Very excellent reading. Semper Fi, Skipper.
August 20, 2021
Never forget
One mans story about his time serving as a Marine in Viêt Nam. He talks about the path he took to get there, his rise through the ranks, and some of the things he did/saw. I hope the writing of this book was therapeutic and helped this gentleman heal from the unseen injuries inflicted upon him.
#GoodreadsGiveaway
One mans story about his time serving as a Marine in Viêt Nam. He talks about the path he took to get there, his rise through the ranks, and some of the things he did/saw. I hope the writing of this book was therapeutic and helped this gentleman heal from the unseen injuries inflicted upon him.
#GoodreadsGiveaway
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