THE HILL FIGHTS The First Battle of Khe Sanh

Murphy portrays the futile and bloody battle of brave U.S. Marines for two hills in Khe Sanh, leading to an ephemeral, costly victory that was typical of the Vietnam War. Against an elusive and clever enemy, soldiers carried new M-16 rifles that jammed as they found that their training was inadequate for jungle warfare. The author's style of mentioning dozens and dozens of complete names, as well as military abbreviations, impedes comprehension. But Charles Stransky's pleasant voice is easy to understand, and his words flow in an quick, conversational manner. He whispers when the enemy is close. A lone helicopter passing overhead creates a unique beginning and ending. J.A.H. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 03]