ERIC ENGLAND: THE PHANTOM OF PHU BAI
J**T
Distinguished Shooters and Snipers.
This book tells the story of some of the best match Shooters and their recruitment as Marine Snipers in the Viet Nam War.Eric England is but one of the proficient snipers.The tale is one of a close brotherhood. These guys returned to competition shooting when able and the true heroes shunned fame for themselves.The details shared regarding some of the missions are grueling. Operating in the field while badly wounded and the keen eye and instincts are just part of Eric England's story.What doesn't get lost in this story is Mr. England's roots and where he came from-a true country boy who also became a fantastic marksman and war hero.
T**H
one of the greats
There are people who are good, then there are the great ones. Top falls under the second catagory. Here stands someone who stands in a group of the greatest shooters to have picked up a rifle and cast his own shadow in this group. Yet he remains humble even after rubbing elbows with these folks. Everyone has heard of Carlos Hatchcock, & Bill Elliott. If you have read many gun magazines from the seventies you know who Elmer Keith is. Here is someone who rubbed elbows with these people & remains humble. Wow, thats an impressive bunch of people. His character is what stands out the most, although his skill comes in a close second. Generations from now his name & deeds will still be spoken of on the firing line. As one shooter is quoted it's not bragging if you can back it up, I believe his scores attest to that. Diffenitley one of the greats of his generation & someone to look up to. Why is it the greats never take credit & the average lucky dog wants to bath in the limelight. Semper Fi mac.
M**K
An honour to read this one
What a gift to discover this treasure, excitingly written by Dr JB Turner in acrisp style that keeps racing to the end. Even the 'pauses' when he changestack, the pace continues relentless on. Excellent description of Eric-the-Marinefavourite weapon - Winchester Model 70 .30-06 with 173-grain bullet. Characterreferences, "the bubble", "Scout Sniper", "one shot, one kill" fully explained.The VC were mystified by "the ghost" - hence - "Phantom" "The scourge of ourstruggle". Returning to the Appalacans where Eric grew up was just asfascinating. He was an exceptional observer of flora and fauna, which, of courseexplains his remarkable success. That he was able to pass on such talent intraining rifle-bearing Marine's left a unique experience. Story comes completewith some outstanding B&W and colour pictures of his service life. A joy to knowthis amazing man. Stand tall Eric England - the Phantom - salute.
M**R
Overall a good read and an interesting history lesson to boot
This was an interesting account of ground level combat in Vietnam and how one Marine with great shooting talent and ingenuity could impact so many others. Eric's leadership had a huge impact on all levels of the Marines from Officer Staff to the lowest level Marine. The book is an inspiring account of how one person can set a high level of leadership through his own example that many others can follow. At the time of the Vietnam conflict, military tactics were not well suited for jungle fighting against a foe that intertwined into the landscape with no real combat front like WWII and Korea. Eric greatly helped change the tactics and take the fight to the VC and NVA. A great American and Marine and an inspiration to all! Overall a good read and an interesting history lesson to boot!
K**R
Quite interesting
This is a quite interesting book on early RVN USMC sniper activities. I was unaware that back 'in the old days' apparently most of the snipers were also prior members of the USMC shooting team. There is a good deal of information and commentary on non combat long range competitive shooting, the members of the team at that time and a current society of long range shooters. There is also some excellent reflections on combat missions. Having 'been there, done that' a little bit myself I would say these are more realistic and probable then a great many other books on USMC snipers. A good read if a little long off topic.
D**L
Remember Those We Had Chosen To Ignore
The story a one Marine and his contributions to our efforts in Vietnam. While he never gave up on America, America (or many of its people)ignored him and hundreds of thousands of other, went to war for us. His sprite is what America is made of and the U.S. Marine Corps has and will always be.Great book it is one that is hard to put down.
G**D
A very good read. A detailed account of how Marine snipers ...
A very good read. A detailed account of how Marine snipers operate and how they infiltrated enemy lines seeking their prey.Eric England was as good as they get and his story is compelling to anyone wanting to know more about these covert operations. It took real courage to do what Eric and his compatriots did and woe be to the foe at the end of his lethal telescope, they were soon to become another number on his tally sheet. This is one guy you would want on YOUR team, that's for sure!
W**N
an excellent book!
I have read several books about Carlos hathcock, and many other marine and army snipers, this was ( I'm embarrassed to say) was the first about Mr Eric England. How I ever missed this great American HERO, is behind explanation. If you are interested in precision marksmanship, stories of Vietnam, and learning of our war heroes, you will like this book! Thank you Dr Turner for a great read, and a special "THANK YOU", to Mr Eric England for your devoted service!!!!
B**R
Too much hero worship by the author
I read 50% of this book before chucking it. I got fed up by the fawning butt kissing of the writer. I find it hard to believe that America lost the Vietnam war having Eric England! The folksie hill billy sayings and stories really got on my nerves. Could have been a great book. If most of England's achievements had not been repeated, the book would have a hundred pages less.
P**N
Four Stars
Trusted Supplier
T**M
Four Stars
good
C**S
Five Stars
Great item.
E**I
Five Stars
top class book
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