McKenna's book is not only an essential historical resource for America's most controversial war but a personal story of valor and survival. advisers in combat during the Vietnam War. Kontum sheds new light on the actions of U.S. infantry lieutenant colonel assigned as a military adviser to the 23rd Division, participated in the battle of Kontum and combines his personal experiences with years of interviews and research from primary sources to describe the events leading up to the invasion and the battle itself. McKenna fills this gap, offering the only in-depth account available of this violent engagement.

In Kontum: The Battle to Save South Vietnam, Thomas P. They were surrounded and attacked by three enemy divisions with heavy artillery and tanks but, with the help of air power, managed to successfully defend Kontum and prevent South Vietnam from being cut in half and defeated.Īlthough much has been written about the Vietnam War, little of it addresses either the Easter Offensive or the Battle of Kontum. The 23rd ARVN Infantry Division and its American advisers were sent to defend the provincial capital of Kontum in the Central Highlands. Almost all of the American forces had already withdrawn from Vietnam except for a small group of American advisers to the South Vietnamese armed forces. Colby Award.In the spring of 1972, North Vietnam invaded South Vietnam in what became known as the Easter Offensive. His book Kontum: The Battle to Save South Vietnam won the 2013 William E. lieutenant was during his time as an advisor to South Vietnamese that the Battle of Kontum occurred.

He was stationed in Germany, Italy, of Korea, and Vietnam, spending the last of his military career as an advisor to South Vietnam. McKenna also obtained a master's degree in history from the University of Kansas.

His military education included stints at the Parachute and Glider School, Basic and Advanced Infantry Officer Courses, Ranger School, Airborne School, Pathfinder School, and the Command and General Staff College. McKenna from Waterstones today Click and Collect from your local Waterstones or get FREE UK delivery on orders over £25. McKenna spent a total of 22 years in the military. After a year of service, he was sent to West Point Military Academy. Upon his graduation from Castle Heights Military Academy in 1948, McKenna enlisted in the army, and served with the 82nd Airborne Division. McKenna was born on July 23, 1930, and raised Nebraska and Florida.

McKenna is a retired United States Army officer and author

Kontum by Thomas McKenna