Want to know what war was really like? Ever wonder what daily life was like on the front lines? Sense the anxiety of a combat patrol, the stomach-clenching tension on a night listening post, the knee-knocking dread of dropping into a hot landing zone. Live with these young marines in their day-to-day existence and their struggle to survive. Feel their pride and pain of serving their country during one of our nation's most tumultuous periods. The Proud Bastards by E. Michael Helms will give you an up-close and personal sense of what war is all about.

This true story is written at an intense, emotional level. It deals with Helms' experiences in the
U.S. Marine Corps during the height of the Vietnam War. The title comes from the nickname of his battalion, "The Magnificent Bastards." Laugh with him as he adjusts to boot camp at infamous Parris Island, at his shock, astonishment and surprise at what he's gotten himself into. It will have any former marine "boot" flashing back on the most memorable months of his life. Trudge with him and the men of "Echo Two-Four" through the rice paddies, hills and steaming jungles of Vietnam. Experience fierce, face-to-face combat through the eyes and mind of an 18-19-year-old marine.

Reviewers have made such comments as:  A hard-hitting, blunt memoir … An agonizing, emotional read that merits your attention … Captures the tedium, the language, the realities of Vietnam … Superb reading … A stunning account of war!

As Helms describes receiving the bittersweet news that he's going home, you find yourself sharing with him the mixed emotions of relief, joy, confusion and hope. You put the book down with a shake of your head and take a deep breath. Then, you pick it up again and stare at the cover … for a long time.