Jr. Joe Campolo

The Kansas Nco Jr. Joe Campolo

The Kansas NCO is a novel about an Air Force senior NCO (non-commissioned officer) who runs what is possibly the largest black market operation of the Vietnam War, in the later stages of the American involvement there.  Several of his underlings become entangled in a a drug operation and end up outside the wire for several weeks, fighting for their very lives. 
They find themselves victimized by treachery in their own ranks, as well as being hunted by the Viet Cong, with nowhere to turn.  As the story unfolds our men find some unlikely allies....along with some surprising enemies as their journey to their final destination takes them back where they started.

Although this book is fiction much of it is based on fact and personal experience.  The author (Joe) was able to capture the several faces of the GI in Vietnam.  He conveys how easy it was to go from mundane, boring days to life threatening situations in the blink of an eye.  He shows the frustration, confusion and terror each GI felt at one time or another during his tour.
Gary Labanow;  USAF Vietnam veteran, retired airline pilot


The Kansas NCO is a top-notch war story that gains momentum as it goes along. Totally absorbing, with a great stinger at the end, this book will keep a reader turning the pages to its conclusion. Lots of action, as one expects, but it also speaks volumes about war and its effects on those placed in the middle of it. Highly recommended.
 
Michael Schumacher, author of Mighty Fitz, Wreck of the Carl D., and November's Fury