Doyle Glass

I recently read Swift Sword, one of those unforgettable books that leaves a lasting impression. Doyle Glass tells the harrowing story of the Marines of Mike 3/5 during Operation Swift, a brutal 11-day engagement in the Vietnam War. Through extensive research—including forty-nine personal interviews with veterans, after-action reports, and a visit to Vietnam—Glass brings this historical moment to life with remarkable compassion and respect.

This isn’t just a book about military strategy; it’s a deeply human story of young men bound by loyalty and resilience as they faced unimaginable hardships together. Glass captures the unbreakable bonds these soldiers forged on the frontlines, recounting their experiences in their own voices. The book doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities: from the brutal firefights to the haunting images of the Vietnamese—women and children included—desperately trying to defend their land. Glass’s detailed maps, photographs, and glossary of military terms further enrich the reader’s understanding of both the military operation and the human cost involved.

This book is a powerful reminder of the courage within us all and the indelible mark that war leaves on everyone it touches. Swift Sword is well worth the read for anyone interested in military history or the strength of the human spirit.