Chickenhawk.

MASON, Robert.

$975.00

Item Number: 146077

New York: The Viking Press, 1983.

First edition, early printing of Mason’s classic first book, one of the finest about the Vietnam War. Octavo, original cloth, map by David Lindroth. Lengthily inscribed by the author on the half-title page, “‘No one is more shocked than I.’ Keep ’em flying! Robert Mason.” Fine in a near fine price-clipped dust jacket. Jacket illustration by Peter Cox.

Chickenhawk is Robert Mason's narrative of his experiences as a "Huey" UH-1 Iroquois helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. The book chronicles his enlistment, flight training, deployment to and experiences in Vietnam, and his experiences after returning from the war. The book begins with Mason's training at the Army's Primary Helicopter School at Fort Wolters, Texas. After graduation in May 1965, he eventually learns he will be sent to Vietnam, making the trip in August with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) aboard the USS Croatan. The Cavalry is initially posted to An Khe, in central South Vietnam, where Mason first experiences combat. The book then details his year-long posting, including the Battle of Ia Drang, R&R periods in Saigon and Taiwan, his encounters with soldiers of the South Vietnamese army, and his experiences piloting the UH-1 "Huey".