The American Agent: My Life in the CIA

In the interest of full disclosure, let me note that I am mentioned in "The American Agent." Dick's book is a very personal story not initially intended for publication but for the family. At the end of the day, the culture had changed. Even Dick Helms, traditionally opposed to CIA memoirs, was writing his "Life in the CIA" on the rational that someone was going to tell these stories and it might better come from those who lived them. The book is a valuable contribution to the literature, especially for anyone considering a career in the CIA. Andre Le Gallo [...]

A wonderful account of an interesting career. If you are into government, intelligence, foriegn politics, or just plain old spy novels, you should definately read this book.

Dick was in my opinion a fine case officer. He had a true sense of what was right and wrong and backed up his morals with action and put his own career on the line more than once to do the right thing. I am frankly surprised that the publications review board did not censor more of this book than they did. I recall kidding Dick once about how Dick Helms was so close and friendly with him when he was but a young Case Officer. Dick explained this by saying , well if you had signed a cheque for over a million dollars to have someone's face fixed you too might make an effort to get to know that officer. I feel sure , and this book shows that Dick would agree with me that today's Agency would not be so caring and loyal to it's officers. I fully recommend this book . The Agency that Dick and I joined in the mid 1960's no longer exists and Dick explains a lot of the reasons. I wish him well and hope this books does very well and is read carefully by any and all looking at the possibilities of taking up a career as an intelligence officer. mac mcintosh

This book provides a fascinating glimpse of the real life of a CIA operative overseas - not a Hollywood caricature far removed from reality. In addition to an informative discussion of the training and day-to-day activities of an operations and collections officer, Holm provides interesting historical information about US involvement in Southeast Asia prior to the insertion of US military forces. Holm's ordeals and triumphs should also serve as an inspiration to young people wishing to serve their country, and lead an exciting life.

The American Agent is not only very informative but highly interesting to read. Richard Holm's experiences and writing gives the reader the true feeling of what Clandestine service is like--not just James Bond action. Certainly makes you realize what others here & abroad go through to keep our country safe.