A Memoir of the Vietnam War’s Final Days A Navy Officer’s First-Hand Account of Duty, Adventure, and a Bold Rescue Mission

What does it mean to be the last? For Jonathan Malay, a newly commissioned officer aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG-22), it meant witnessing history and humanity collide during the tumultuous final days of the Vietnam War. His memoir, War in Our Wake, delivers a gripping account of the ship’s departure from Vietnamese waters, marking the end of America’s military involvement in the conflict.

Malay’s narrative takes readers aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert as it navigates the chaos of the war’s final chapter. Amid the harrowing evacuation of Saigon, Malay and his shipmates undertook a bold humanitarian mission, saving over 150 refugees desperate to escape.

“Aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddert, we witnessed the war’s human toll and answered the call of duty in a profound way,” Malay explains. “This book is my tribute to the bravery and compassion of my shipmates and the lives we touched.”

Key features of the book include:

• A Bold Humanitarian Mission: At the heart of the story is an incredible humanitarian effort that saved over 150 lives. Malay recounts this mission with vivid detail, showing how the crew of the USS Benjamin Stoddert went beyond their military duties to offer hope and compassion in the midst of chaos.
• Personal Love Letters: Malay’s letters to his wife offer a poignant glimpse into the emotional landscape of a young naval officer far from home. These personal writings bring an intimate dimension to the book, revealing the longing, fears, and hopes that accompanied him throughout his journey.
• Final American Military Presence: Capturing a significant historical moment, Malay describes how he and his shipmates became the very last American military presence in Vietnam, just days after the final Marine Corps helicopter left Saigon. This narrative bridges the gap between history and personal experience, offering a unique perspective on the war’s conclusion.

About the Author

Malay’s distinguished career includes two decades in the Navy, leadership roles in aerospace, and a legacy of inspiring writing and public speaking. With War in Our Wake, he adds a powerful voice to the historical record of the Vietnam War.

As the world prepares to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, Malay’s memoir stands as a testament to duty, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.

Available now on Amazon and major retailers.

For interviews, review copies, or additional information, please contact:

Email: [email protected]

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