First Force Recon Company: Sunrise at Midnight

by Bill Peters

Book Overview

In 1st Force Recon you performed at a very high level of proficiency. Or you died. . . . In 1969, First Lieutenant Bill Peters and the Force Recon Marines had one of the most difficult, dangerous assignments in Vietnam. From the DMZ to the Central Highlands, their job was to provide strategic and operational intelligence to insure the security of American units as the withdrawal of the troops progressed. Making perilous helicopter inserts deep in...

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0804118736
• ISBN13: 9780804118736
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: Ballantine Books
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.34 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 4.4" x 7.0"

Customer Reviews

Read This Book -- You'll Be Glad That You Did!

For students of the Vietnam War, military history, or history generally, I highly recommend "First Force Recon Company: Sunrise at Midnight". This book transports the reader back in time, into the lives and the daring missions tasked to this elite Marine team. The author also provides insightful historical perspective by analyzing how the distant political and diplomatic actions had real, observable impact on the chances for survival of this team of Marines.It's interesting that the only negative review of this book comes from the only person who failed to give their name - but claimed to be a "Force Recon Marine who was in Vietnam in 1969". I suggest two likely possibilities: (1) this person is not what he or she claimed to be, and / or (2) they have some serious personal problems or agenda that leads them to criticize what is a first hand account of some of the most courageous and skillful Marines in the history of the Vietnam War. If this person can refute the basic accuracy of Bill Peters' book, let's see their book with verifiable facts. Was I there to verify the facts recounted in "Sunrise at Midnight"? No. But the Recon Marines covered in this book can do so. How do I know this? As a lawyer for one the nation's leading companies, I report to General Counsel Lynn Lowder, who is highlighted in this book and is a recipient of the Purple Heart, Silver Star and Bronze Star.Lynn tells me that Bill Peters told it just the way it was. Given Lynn's integrity in the legal and corporate battlefield - I have no doubt that "Sunrise at Midnight" is a credible and accurate retelling of events. The First Force Recon Marines described in this book have continued to achieve at high levels during the past 30 years. They don't seek egocentric praise for their contributions; quite the opposite. This fine book is clearly written with humility, as a tribute of remembrance to the team - collectively. Hopefully, as time continues to pass, posterity will take note of their extraordinary courage in the face of terrifying adversity, faithfully responding to their nation's call. This book helps us remember and remain grateful.

1st recon in veitnam

One of the best books on Veitnam I have ever read. I wish Bill Peters would write a couple of more books.

It's the real deal!

As a former Force Recon Marine, I am proud that somebody has finally told the story the way it was. I served with many of the people in this book and I have to say that it has certainly been a long time since I had the honor to have worked with such fine people. There hasn't been a day since I left the Company that I have not thought about many of our missions, both good and bad. We were young and all charged up, but it cannot be denied that we were working at our highest potential and we fought to win, when our politicians really didn't know anything about the missions we were undertaking and still don't. RECON is another way to spell TEAM, something many people should learn more about. RECON ALL THE WAY!!!!!!!! Nice job Lt. PETERS. Give me a shout when you have the time. Formerly Sgt. Jim McKee, 1st Force Recon Company, 68-69. MUSK OX 6, OUT!

Excellent account of true American Heroism.

I found Dr. Peters book to be an outstanding account of one of the most under appreciated efforts in American History. Having personally heard other accounts from trustworthy and humble individuals that served in Vietnam, I am assured that this book is factual (despite what some other reviewers may contend). The heroism described in this book is a breath of fresh air in a day when most Americans are only concerned about their own personal gain and have no sense of Country.

Very accurate and compelling history.

As a fellow patrol leader in First Force, I am well aware of the topics and personnel Bill is profiling in this long-overdue work. First Force was an exceptional group of Marines, enlisted and officer alike. Bill has written an accurate and compelling history about this exceptional group of men who routinely accomplished what most units in Vietnam could never conceive of, must less execute. I am proud to have served alongside such outstanding Marines as Bill and those he discusses in this meaningful and insightful book.