Soul Patrol: The Riveting True Story of the First African American LRRP Team in Vietnam

I read this book over four years ago during my first of three deployments to Iraq. As mentioned in other reviews, it was difficult to put this book down until I had read every last page. Some readers may disagree with the tone of the book, however I found it more interesting because it was not written to appeal to the PC crowd, instead its purpose was to give the reader the raw uncut version of the events that transpired during that particular time. After reading the book I gave it to another Soldier to read, and I'm about to purchase the book once again.

This is an excellent account of the LRRP's in Vietnam, and especially a great account of African Americans in Vietnam, who gave so much in that war. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in reading about the Vietnam War and the people who fought it!

Soul Patrol by Ed Emanuel is a fine tribute to the LRRP/Rangers he served with during the Vietnam War. More than that, it also offers an indepth look at the bravery and heroism of black American soldiers who not only served honorably but with proud distinction. The motto that 'Rangers Lead The Way' is clearly evident in Emanuel's book and one that speaks to the sacrifice and service of those who wore the patch.

My friend recommended this book, and his recommendation was right on! I read this book over a weekend. Riveting is an understatement. After I would return from some social function, I had to pick up the book to find out what else was going on during Ed Emanuel's tour in Vietnam. From enlisting with friends, to his ambition (wanting to be a Green Beret, Ed felt going LRRP would be a great step) to the mixed emotions of going out in the bush, this book has it all! The author is incredibly personal about what he feels and why he felt a certain way. Whether it is putting events in their proper perspective or making peace with himself, this book will keep you thinking. My hats is off to Mr. Emanuel and all the Vietnam Vets. It's also a nice companion to add to the other LURP books: SIX SILENT MEN TRILOGY, RECONDO, PHANTOM WARRIORS, and other books by LURP authors....attack life Ed!

I bought this book at the airport to pass the time and it sounded interesting as it looked to be a unique perspective on the Vietnam war...something different. From the moment I picked up this book, I could not put it down, riveting is an understatement. The reading of the book goes by real fast and idle moments in the book are non-existent. I've read many Vietnam books but this one is one of the more memorable ones. Although the book cover initially catches your attention with being a story of the first African American Lrpp team in Vietnam, that doesn't seem to be the main focus throughout the book. The book is more of an account of Ed Emanuel's personal experience in Vietnam with descriptive interactions with all different kinds of people, and in my opinion I'm glad it was written that way because the book is much more personal and not some cheap story line. The author holds nothing back and does not err to the conservative side of trying to make a book to please his readers. In fact at times you may find the opposite and maybe even a bit offended but you must understand that the author is not trying to purposely offend people but to tell his story like it is. In doing so, I felt the book was written in its purest form and appreciated it for the author's truthfulness. Many of times, we get caught up in reading stories of Vietnam that are...well, just stories with little personality from those telling it, in this book that is not the case. Facts, opinions and intelligent inner-dialogue are apparent throughout. My only complain is I wished the author would have went into how everything was for him after the war, but that would probably be a whole other book in itself. Excellent book, great dialogue, I highly recommend this as an addition to any adult's library. For those Vietnam War buffs, this is a definite "must buy" as it will truly add diversity to your library. I also recommend "The Nam" by Mark Baker, "Charlie Company" and "Bloods".