Chickenhawk

Robert Mason does a great job of relating his experiences as a helicopter pilot in Viet Nam. His book is descriptive and understandable to the reader even if you are not a pilot. His memory and detail of the missions he flew, training, and army life makes this a highly interesting Viet Nam war book. If these pilots survived, they got highly skilled at what they were doing. I have a greater appreciation for how specialized and stressful a combat helicopter pilot's job is.

Fantastic story of the journey travelled by chopper pilots from training to operations in a highly dangerous war zone.mason takes us through a no holds barred roller coaster ride of his early days in the initial deployment of air cav. Here is another story of a warrior who saw and dealt with terrible battle scenes and danger. It is a fantastic story and one feels great empathy for Mason and his comrades.This is an iconic Vietnam story. Highly recommended.

A graphic depiction of that undeclared political conflict. Mason captures the pure chaos of his time piloting us groundpounders, otherwise known as grunts, into combat situations typically under fire, and then ferrying the wounded back out to field hospitals. Then right back in with more troops. Constant mayhem like that takes its toll. His story is the story of thousands of combat troops who still suffer from PSTD from that hot steamy place they call Vietnam. Thanks for the story Bob!

This is a quick easy read. Raw memoir of Vietnam from a copter pilot. Detailed description of an insane job. Some holds barred, but not many, nothing material held back it seemed. Overall impression, Mason should marry his wife again. She's a hero in this one too...

This is an exciting book based on facts that happened during a very controversial period of American history. Mr. Mason, the author, presents a very factual account of the actions of a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam war. Once you start to read you will not be able to put this book down. You get an eyewittness view of the misery and sacrafices that our young men went thru back in those days when fighting for the "American way" was not so popular. If you, like me, were of military age back in the late 60's this should be a must read. My gratitude will always be there for those who gave so much, thank you Mr. Mason.
Rick Childers

The author writes in such an interesting manner and has good explanations of how a helicopter works, that I felt a sense of "being there." His perceptions and opinions very thoughtful. We owe it to our Vietnam military to read this and be grateful for their service!

As a fellow helicopter pilot in Vietnam, I must agree with the 5-star reviews. The author has a knack for telling it like it was. The voice is unique and reflects the crude, raw viciousness of the war, but also tempers it with humor and compassion. My hat is off the Mr. Mason.

As a fellow helicopter pilot in Vietnam, I must agree with the 5-star reviews. The author has a knack for telling it like it was. The voice is unique and reflects the crude, raw viciousness of the war, but also tempers it with humor and compassion. My hat is off the Mr. Mason.

Along with Dispatches, the finest book I've read about the Vietnam War. As a personal account, not only of war but also its aftermath, Chickenhawk is first rate. Extremely readable and also highly informative. A must read.

The details of flying a helicopter in Vietnam combat are brought to life by Robert Mason. The chaos of Vietnam - on the ground, in the air, and in the rear echelon are illustrated better than any other book I have yet read.

As I read some negative reviews on the second half of the book, I was somewhat worried when purchasing it, but I did not run across anything getting worse in the second half (as far as quality or style is concerned). Of course, as the author gains experience, the atmosphere may slightly change.

I liked the way political views were presented - with a bit of irony, but by no means too personal.

The book describes the atmosphere pretty well, does not overflow with personal feelings, and offers plenty of action worth every penny.

Excellent personal account of war in Vietnam through the eyes of a disenchanted helicopter pilot.

Also, a good book for anyone learning to fly helicopters as it accurately describes flight training.

This book captured my attention from the first few words. The way the book is written makes you feel as if you are there along side of Mr Mason. His willingness to share his experience with honesty and candor, without prejudice and blame makes him a true hero and an inspiration to all.

Having done two tours in Vietnam as an Australian soldier, I was always a passenger either going into combat and one occasion as a WIA. This is a top read and gives the reader a total understanding of the smiling faces behind the Perspex. Also now having extreme PTSD makes his life after his period in battle realistic but incredibly sad for such a talented pilot.

Great book, great insight not only on the incredible bravery of these pilots but what it takes just to fly one of those things. In my opinion, they really can't be flown.

Highly recommend this one!

I never thought it possible that another book could grab my attention the way "A Rumor of War" did - that is, until I read Chickenhawk. Having turned the last page at 4am this morning I am still wandering around in a daze - it has been an emotional roller coaster (or maybe helicopter) ride - the last few words have left me speechless - everything around me is quiet now except for the deafening images left behind. This book is powerful in every way and will affect everyone who reads it like no other, including the Judge. How Mr Mason has survived is beyond me.