Book Reviews

“Very readable writing style. A well outlined story of a little known but most important component of our war efforts in Vietnam. I offer belated but heartfelt thanks to the author and the hundreds of thousands of service men and women who served in Vietnam without appropriate words of appreciation. Thank you, Dan, for serving and for writing this book.”

– Bruce Long May 2018

 

“I knew little to nothing about the Swift boat engagements in Vietnam Nam. An honest look at a man and his crew during this time period. Well written with a touch of humor and stark realism.”

– Robert M. Roth, MD February 2018

 

“This is a well written book that provides an excellent view of how Swift boats operated in Vietnam and the special relationship that existed in the crews. Highly recommended.”

– John Ferraroon, February 2018

 

White Water Red Hot Lead is an extraordinary story of heroism and love set against a backdrop of small boat operations in Vietnam. Above all, this is a book of leadership and deserves a close read from but historians and leaders in today’s turbulent world.”

– Admiral James Stavridis USN, Dean, The Fletcher School, Tufts University, January 2017

 

“Dan Daly’s book captures the essence of the U.S. Navy small boats operations in Vietnam. Combat was never far away, we built the bonds of brotherhood, often with tears and laughter, where ‘above and beyond’ became the norm. You got it right. Bravo Zulu.”

– Thomas Kelly USN, Vietnam Veteran, MOH, January 2017

 

“I comment as a former Marine infantry platoon commander. Dan’s book propels you, in seconds, from the laid-back and tranquil to the chaos of a firefight. If you are seeking a realistic portrayal of combat leadership in Vietnam, this is it!”

– Beirne Lovely USMC, Khe Sanh, Vietnam 1968, January 2017

 

“Skipper, each page brought me back to the time when we were young and strong, brave and fearless. The events from 48 years ago: Drag racing a Navy destroyer in San Diego and flying that ‘last patrol, going home’ flag in Vietnam. A cherished memory is being part of the crew aboard PCF 76. ‘Thank you for remembering, Dan’.”

– Rev. Oscar E. Wells, Maj. US Army, Engineman 2nd Class USN, “Snipe”, January 2017

 

“Another fine book from Casemate that reads like fiction – amazing accounts of daring and courage in one of the worst wars in living history.”

– Books Monthly, March 2017

 

“I have to say that it is one of the most pleasant books that I have read, and the comradeship and love that these warriors felt for themselves and others is a bright ray of sunshine in a war history…An excellent book about a little known area of an almost forgotten war and one I thoroughly enjoyed. 4.5 stars.”

– ARRSE (Army Rumour Service) , April 2017

 

“Daly has just authored a fascinating book about his experience with US Navy Swift Boats. But it is so much more. It is about pride in one’s country, dedication, and leadership, all wrapped in an action-packed account of his crew’s service in Vietnam. He teaches us why soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines have such pride in their outfits. Daly also peppers the book with humorous stories of the side-splitting stuff sailors do to effectively work within (and around) the military bureaucracy. I recommend it highly. It’s a great read. I’m buying copies for all my kids.”

– James Dowdon, April 2017

 

“Living in Coronado during the time of the Vietnam War, I could relate to Dan’s well presented odyssey. Normally I am not interested in stories of war, however his book portrays the significant role of the Swift boat’s contribution in an insightful and knowledgeable manner. His sense of humor gives this tale of the soberness of war a more palatable appeal for all readers. His use of vivid verbs and colorful descriptors prompts the reader to continue to the end!! “

– Patricia Lee Gustafsonon, November 2017