Synopses & Reviews
On May 12, 1975, just days after the American Embassy in Saigon was evacuated, Khmer Rouge forces seized the SS Mayaguez. Three days later, President Ford launched a military raid to rescue the crew of the merchant ship. But as the attack began on Koh Tang Island, the hostages were being released from an entirely different location. Incomplete intelligence reports had unwittingly sent the marines into a bloodbath. In the ensuing chaos many soldiers died, and three machine gunners were mistakenly left behind as they steadfastly defended the American retreat.
In this remarkable book, journalist and Vietnam veteran Ralph Wetterhahn recreates the story of the Mayaguez incident and poignantly reveals, for the first time, the harrowing fate of the three young marines who were forgotten by their comrades, indeed by their country. The Last Battle is a riveting narrative of combat, courage, and governmental blunders that serves as a metaphor for the entire Vietnam War.
Review
"The Last Battle deserves the highest praise...extraordinary." Christopher Hitchens, The Nation
Review
"Like the Vietnam War, the Mayaguez Incident is often recalled only for its mistakes and not for the lessons of duty and honor exemplified in the conduct of the men who fought it. This gripping account of the battle for Koh Tang, and the unwitting abandonment of three American marines on her shores, redeems the glory of all who fought to free the captured crew of the Mayaguez and resolves the fate of the men we left behind. As Wetterhahn shows, in the fog of a hard battle gone wrong, they held high a lantern of courage and faith that illuminated the way home with honor." Senator John McCain, author of Faith of My Fathers
Review
"The battle scenes are riveting and evocative, the analysis of the strategy and tactics insightful and the discovery of evidence showing the fate of the three marine MIAs convincing and disturbing." Publishers Weekly
Review
"An absorbing story of incredible bravery and sacrifice by marines, airmen, and sailors in battle, and a depressing account of leadership failure from the White House down to senior commanders in the field. This is a cautionary tale about leaders who bring disaster when they micromanage military crises half a world away. It should be read by all Americans concerned about their nation's military forces." Bevin Alexander, author of How Hitler Could Have Won WWII
Synopsis
The final battle of the Vietnam War left three forgotten marines on a Cambodian beach, a fact the Pentagon didn't admit for 20 years. "The Last Battle" recounts their story.
About the Author
Ralph Wetterhahn, a former U.S. Air Force Pilot, served combat tours in Vietnam with the Air Force and Navy, completing 180 missions. His work has appeared in Air & Space, Smithsonian, Leatherneck, Popular Science, VFW, and The Retired Officer.