Forever Forward: K9 Operations in Vietnam

"Forever Forward: K9 Operations in Vietnam" by Mike Lemish

"Forever Forward" is the first in-depth account of K-9 Operations during the Vietnam War, and provides a behind the scenes look at how Allied forces employed dog teams in a variety of roles, the evolution of the United States military working dog program, and the aftermath of Vietnam. The 4,000 dogs that served with our men in Vietnam in every service branch are America's unsung heroes. American dog teams averted over 10,000 casualties and worked as scouts, sentries, trackers, and mine and tunnel detectors. They were so effective the Viet Cong even placed a bounty on them. Heroes yes, but our own government left most of them behind to an unknown fate.

Book Details:

• Size: 6" x 9"
  
• Illustrations: over 150 B&W images
  
• Pages: 256
  
• Binding: Hard Cover
  
  
  Book Review
  This book is terrific! I guess I am prejudiced because it is about my war. Mike describes it as an "easy read" and it is that. But I enjoyed, not only what he had to say, but how he said it. His style of writing, the way he put the words together, was a real pleasure to experience. The book is LOADED with information covering the conflict, from its origins, early efforts at ARVN K9 units, the entry, buildup, and wind down of American and Australian K9 units, and veterinary support, It's all there; the units, the men, the dogs, the combat experiences, the media, the monuments, the memories. Lemish has surpassed his earlier effort. THIS is the book to own! The printing quality of the physical book is superb. The hardbound cover has an attractive outer wrapper that is duplicated on the actual book itself. Inside the book there are 164 photos (I counted them) and 5 maps, spread throughout the book, not jammed in the middle in a "photo section." Most are pictures not seen anywhere before and serve to illustrate the text at that point. Also included is a listing of handlers and dogs KIA during the conflict. Accompanying the books I have seen is a Schiffer Publishing bookmark to save where you were if you have to put the book down (but who would want to put it down?).
  
  reviewed by Robert A. Kollar, handler of Rebel M421 in Vietnam in the 58th Infantry Platoon (Scout Dog), 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) 68-69