The Vietnam War comes alive in this real-life story of a young, small-town American boy who quickly became a man with a purpose as a helicopter pilot who survived the ravages of war, made instant life-and-death decisions, earned a Purple Heart for combat wounds, and changed his life forever. Life was different in the 1960s for teenage boys facing life decisions as a youth.

Young men got married, left home at eighteen or younger, started families, went to war, and many died before reaching age twenty-five. In fact, many U.

S. Army helicopter pilots did not survive the war as they served in one of the most dangerous and deadly jobs in the Vietnam War.

Facing war was horrific--but learning to fly, making lifetime buddies, and experiencing the Vietnam War as a U. S.

Army helicopter pilot was a life-changing adventure for Lew Hudspeth. His one-year tour of duty in South Vietnam in 1967 was filled with many elements, including terrifying and thrilling moments with breathless fear; intense sadness for fellow soldiers who did not survive; a strong, patriotic desire to fulfill his military duty to his country; a willingness to make the necessary sacrifices for freedom without complaining; and a powerful feeling of young, invincible strength and courage to overcome all obstacles to achieve the mission, no matter what.

This coming of age story is truly inspiring for all of our young warriors--or for those who strive to become one. .