13 Cent Killers: The 5th Marine Snipers in Vietnam

John Culbertson is in my opinion, a true patriot, and has an excellent way of presenting his stories. I have read his books and especially enjoyed this one as I, quite surprisingly, found my name mentioned as an F-4 pilot! Having always fantasized about how I would have performed as a grunt, rather than a pilot, I can, through the eyes of John, vicariously live the life I've always wondered about. His stories put me there as though I am living the part and appreciate his attention to detail. I sense his accounts are factual, not over dramatized, and leaves me with a real appreciation of not having had to experience the ordeals he and so many of his comrades had to endure. I highly recommend this as well as any other books or articles John has written. A job well done!!

Culbertsons book is a military club best seller because it shines the light of truth on much of the exaggerations and out right lies that have come out of the vietnam war. When Culbertson speaks of himself in combat action with the rest of his fifth marine buddys he is using a writing technique called a "flashback" . many combat veterans see past events like a movie where they view themselves merely as a participant. The reason many of the stories in the book seem disjointed is because each sniper team operated with different units in different places during the same time period. This is the most technically accurate portrayal of the Fifth marines in Vietnam that exists. This book also contains the names of operations , list of snipers, and battles that were led by specific officers . Check out the usmc history annals on these events and you too may learn the truth about Vietnam.

I have just completed reading "13 Cent Killers". I have also read volumes of other so-called "true stories" of Marine snipers feats of virtually inconceivable exploits. "13 Cent Killers" is only one of the few humble books I have had the pleasure of reading. It is not a book written out of arrogance and conceit, but of his "Brothers in arms", of which this man truely loves. After reading "13 Cent Killers", I had the great honor of speaking with John Culbertson personally. I found him to be a genuine "down to earth" Marine.This book was written to honor his Brother Marines who had fought at his side, and for the "True Heros" of the war, his fellow Marines that had made the "Ultimate Sacrifice", for God, Country, and Corps. John Culbertson, Tom Casey with whom I have also spoken with personally, Vernon Mitchell, Billy May, and countless more Marines are truly "The Few The Proud". Putting their fellow Marines ahead of themselves in time of grave peril, to fight for, and protect what they loved so much. As quoted by Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz, "Uncommon valor was a common virtue", and is still today. John Culbertson, Billy May, Vernon Mitchell, and all of my Brother Marines who would fill countless pages, I salute you, and welcome you home. For my Brother Marines who have fallen throughout our great history and are with "God Almighty USMC (Retired)" I am forever in your debt. You are in my prayers always. This is my humble opinion.Semper Fi. Job well done Marines. John "Gus" Sibole USMC/0351 1980-1983

John Culbertson has lifted the mystic of the sniper and has shown us the reality. The vast majority of snipers in the Marine Corps traveled with infantry companies, not as single "hunter killers". The sniper is and has always been a vital weapon in the Corps arsenal, since 1775 Marine sharpshooters have lived by the well placed shot.The snipers of the Fifth Marine Regiment in Vietnam were the best around, I know I worked with them on every operation I was on. This book should be on the Commandants required reading list for all Marines.

Unbelievable! Someone (Culbertson) has finally written the true story of what being a Marine Sniper was all about. The camaraderie and dedication of these men jumps off the pages as if you were there with them. Sgt Casey must have been the type man that has made the Marine Corps special. Cudos to Mr. Culbertson and the men of the 5th Marine Sniper Platoon. I look forward with great anticipation to the follow-on book about their experiences during the larger battles described by Culbertson.