“The Progress” Interviews “My Pilot” Author, Sarajane Giere

The following article written by The Progress Contributing Writer Sophia Colitti was printed in The Progress, Feb. 10, 2021. To view the original article please click here.

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Book uses letters couple exchanged during Vietnam War

Sarajane Giere’s book, “My Pilot,” is about her husband, Bernard.

Author, Sarajane Giere

WEST CALDWELL TWP. – Although Sarajane Giere lost her husband to ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2013, writing about him was not filled with pain.

Amid her reflection on loss as she worked on “My Pilot: A Story of War, Love and ALS,” published in November, the West Caldwell resident blissfully regressed to her memories of the great love of her life.

“It was like falling in love again throughout the whole six years I wrote the book. It was wonderful all this time; it was a work of love,” she said.

“As I wrote, I got (the music-streaming service) Spotify and put on all the songs from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Most of the songs were love songs in those days, and they all remind me of him. I think of them all the time and think of him.”

Giere will discuss the book online at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 12. Her talk is sponsored by West Caldwell Public Library. To register, send email to richelle.defrank@westcaldwell.bccls.org.

“My Pilot” embodies the ethereal feeling of being in love combined with hard-hitting truths about war, sickness and distance.

Giere incorporated the love letters that she exchanged with her late husband, Bernard, known as “Bernie,” who served as a pilot during the Vietnam War. He was in the Air National Guard for 15 years as air commander of the 106th Rescue Wing.

Their love story began at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The book covers their collegiate days, their initial move to Texas as a married couple in 1962 and their life together until he died of ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. There is no cure.

The turbulence of their lives during the ‘60s is highlighted, based on Bernard’s letters sent during wartime.

“I think that most of our strength-building times were when he was in harm’s way. They are the backbone of the book. I saved all of his letters from Vietnam. It was very reassuring and comforting to know our love brought us together through letters,” Giere said.

“My Pilot” has resonated with folks beyond the Giere’s acquaintance as an embodiment of the military wife’s experience. It exposes the strength of these women and the trauma they endure. Giere explicitly stated the rawness that is not covered in cinematic and textbook depictions of the Vietnam War.

She credits “My Pilot” for her rekindled connection to the military wives with whom she shared unfathomable grievances. She recounted one time where she witnessed another woman receive a knock on the front door.

“I was like a fly on the wall because the men notifying her of her husband’s death were at the front door and I was behind. I watched what happened. My mind had said, ‘Never forget this moment, look in the window and see this wonderful woman. See what she was going through’ as I was comforting kids who didn’t know their father was gone.”

Well-Traveled

The Gieres lived in six states as they pursued their careers. While Bernard was flying planes, Sarajane taught elementary reading, art and English for 23 years.

Years later, when Bernard was diagnosed with ALS in 2012 at age 73, Sarajane’s one wish was to make him happy.

She shared her memories of their final year together, which included taking Bernard to fly a biplane despite his physical setbacks.

During that year, Sarajane asked Bernard questions about his life as he was mentally slipping. He willingly shared details that she would later channel into her writing.

After his death, she joined The Write Group in Montclair, where she found her motivation to work on the book.

“I was with people who love writing and we encouraged each other to get better. I would get good reactions after reading the letters from Vietnam, which helped me continue. I always liked memoirs, seeing how people overcome adversity in their lives.”

Giere said she wears a necklace of an airplane on a chain with a diamond chip because her husband was a gem.

“Even in the letters we wrote to one another before we were married, I saw the humor, pathos and bravery of the man. I thought to myself, ‘I want my grandchildren to know this wonderful man; I want him to live on.’

“I wanted my seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter to know how amazing he truly was. It’s a matter of passing things down, and the best way to do it is in writing.”

Giere recommends that everyone follow suit.

“I would say, because I love re-reading old letters, keep a diary and write in a journal. Write your feelings, write about what’s happening, the way you feel about the world, your inner self and expose yourself to other writers.”

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Reviews for Marc Cullison’s Vietnam Books!

These titles are available on Amazon today!

Rating: 5 out of 5.

STRAP IN – WAR FROM A CHOPPER PILOT’S POINT OF VIEW – In 1971, I was a college kid trying to pick a major so I could graduate. Marc Cullison was first lieutenant flying helicopters over the dense and dangerous jungles of Vietnam. “The Other Vietnam” brings to the reader the smells, sounds and dangers of that life-changing experience. It’s the details that matter: the MPCs, the hooch girls, rats in bed, the missions and the dangers of war. This is a well-told story of coming of age in the worst possible place to do it.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN AUDIOBOOK!!

MARC CULLISON’S FIRST-HAND ACCOUNT AS A HELICOPTER PILOT IN VIETNAM

Rating: 5 out of 5.

A GREAT RETROSPECTION OF RETURNING TO VIETNAM FORTY YEARS AFTER – I highly recommend Marc Cullison’s “Vietnam Again.” It was a great read. It’s the story of a group of Vietnam Veterans who return to Vietnam for a two-week rediscovery trip. Their expectations were mixed about returning to such a dark foreboding time in their lives. It proved to be much more than a trip to a place they once knew, Cullison’s recollections and conclusions are thoughtful, compelling, and an example of a group of men coming to terms with their time as soldiers in this tiny sliver of a country that had such a profound impression on their lives. As I said before, “Vietnam Again,” was a great read!

ALSO AVAILABLE IN AUDIOBOOK!!

READ ABOUT MARC CULLISON’S TRIP BACK TO VIETNAM 40-YEARS LATER!

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BOOK REVIEWS FOR IMZADI PUBLISHING’S AUTHORS!!

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Rating: 5 out of 5.

THE LAST HOLIDAY – When reading this book I thought of the movie the last holiday, however this storyline brings an even greater twist, the character takes the lemons and turns them into lemonade.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

 A GREAT RETROSPECTION OF RETURNING TO VIETNAM FORTY YEARS AFTER – I highly recommend Marc Cullison’s “Vietnam Again.” It was a great read. It’s the story of a group of Vietnam Veterans who return to Vietnam for a two-week rediscovery trip. Their expectations were mixed about returning to such a dark foreboding time in their lives. It proved to be much more than a trip to a place they once knew, Cullison’s recollections and conclusions are thoughtful, compelling, and an example of a group of men coming to terms with their time as soldiers in this tiny sliver of a country that had such a profound impression on their lives. As I said before, “Vietnam Again,” was a great read!

Rating: 5 out of 5.

killer story – Frank Nagler has his hands full with a serial killer on the loose, departmental infighting and political intrigue. Throw in personal drama and the rookie detective’s plate is pretty full. Only dogged determination and a hunger for mystery solving keeps his head above water. “The Red Hand” is well written and easy to read. The mystery keeps the pages turning. Glad I started with Book 4. Now I can move on to Book 1.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

TIGHT PLOT, GREAT CHARACTERS, GREAT WRITING – Book three in a terrific series, the author, Michael Stephen Daigle, weaves a fast paced, convoluted, dark crime thriller. This novel starts with what looks like a simple mystery (a young girl is found in a grocery store Dumpster on a cold March night wearing just shorts and a tank top.) and winds up a complex decades old thriller. I enjoyed this book very much. The author certainly keeps you on your toes from the start. Highly recommended.

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This week’s reviews for Our Authors!

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Rating: 3 out of 5.

GOOD READ – Faith lost is an interesting tale, though hard to peg down in order to describe. I enjoy tales that raise questions of the soul’s journey and its interconnection with the longing question about the meaning of life. I can recommend it as a good read.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

GREAT READ BUT… – It ended off on a cliff hanger., which is fine. Readers are left to imagine the overall outcome. However, some may not be too fond of this. Other than that, it was a great read!

Rating: 4 out of 5.

PERSONAL & INTRIGUING – I didn’t know much about the Vietnam war, other than what we read in school. This book gives a personal insight into what the author went through, and though, I’m sure each soldier’s experience was different, they were all practically “in the same boat”. What the author said from the very beginning was “This story is not the whole truth because truth can’t be told in a story. Only experience can. I have to convey my experiences in Vietnam the way I lived them. That’s why I’m telling you the story in my own way.” There are some critical reviews about this book about the author being “negative towards his experience in Vietnam”. Well, frankly, I think they’re stupid because most of them were not there, and obviously they can’t appreciate a veteran’s story about his experience. A little off-topic, but had to get that out. Thank you, Marc, for your service! Overall, would definitely recommend this book!

Rating: 4 out of 5.

ENGAGING – Very engaging mystery.
Highly recommended!

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Book reviews for Imzadi Publishing’s Authors!

NEW REVIEWS FOR OUR AUTHORS THIS WEEK!

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 INTRIGUING PREMISE – 4 STARS

I like that it was opened up to a universal idea, allowing the reader to question the meaning of life and souls intertwined. Descriptive writing and colourful characters make this a good read.

SUCH A THRILLING ADVENTURE SERIES – 5 STARS

Wow I am super impressed with the author’s ability to tell a fantastic story. She had me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. Make sure you read the first book in the series otherwise you’ll be lost. This book is filled with adventure and will leave you wanting more 🙂 Do not hesitate to buy this series.

LOVED IT! – 5 STARS!

I’m a sucker for a good love story, but I tend to avoid the tear jerkers. You know from the description this one won’t have a happily ever after, but I’m so glad I took a chance on it. Loved the characters, loved the setting, and it’s such a sweet, heartfelt story. A very enjoyable read.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED – 5 STARS!

In this excellent novella, the author hooks you right away with a crime and some excellent writing. I love Michael’s use of metaphors and the way he sticks close to his lead character – you can see things happening through Nagler’s eyes. There are a few instances where the author tells us what the character is feeling instead of taking the time to lead us there through descriptions, imagery, actions and/or thought, but I’ve noticed the best authors do this at times, and it takes little away from the quality of writing overall. A very enjoyable read.

WORTH A READ – 4 STARS

I recently watched The Man in the High Castle, so when this book popped up for .99cents I gave it a try. Enjoyable and thought provoking. The Hedgerows of June iS a good read, only beef is its too short!

 MARVELOUS BOOK – 5 STARS

The author and I share two things in common related to my father. Both are from Oklahoma and both served in Vietnam. Your book has confirmed all the stories from his service there. If I did not know better, I would swear you would be twins. He vowed he would never go back to Vietnam, and he never did. I commend your willingness to go back and try to comprehend what it was all about. Follow Marc on his venture back to the place he so longed to forget. This book is a worthy read for anyone trying to make sense of a life event. It takes courage to re-examined these events, and you tell your story so well. Grab the audiobook as well Marc narrates superbly.

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We have a great Kindle sale going on right now, so pick up your perfect beach/poolside read today!

The Other Vietnam War: A Helicopter Pilot’s Life in Vietnam receives another 5 Star Review!

If you haven’t read Marc Cullison’s ‘The Other Vietnam War” A Helicopter Pilot’s Life in Vietnam’ yet, what are you waiting for? It’s receiving rave reviews! Here is one from July 15th!

Raw and Honest – Truly a different look at Vietnam – 5 STARS!!

“Being born in the mid sixties, I remember Vietnam, but was too young to really absorb all that was happening. I, of course, have since read much on it. This author gives a different look than most books. I compare it to Leander Stillwell’s A Common Soldier of Army Life in the Civil War. It’s not meant to be a historical record of battles, events, losses, and victories. Both books are meant to take the reader inside the life of one particular solider; to be with him during his commission. This book causes the reader to see what the author sees, experience what he experiences, and make you feel like you are right alongside him.

It’s not always pretty, and you may not agree with the author’s take or response to some circumstances. But, this book is Marc Cullison’s experience, not ours or anyone else’s. Mr. Cullison is brutally honest and completely open with the reader. That is why I am giving this book 5 stars. He has pulled the curtain back, and allowed us an uncensored view of his life and experience as an officer during the Vietnam War. Thank you for that!”


Don’t have time to sit down and read? Imzadi Publishing has got you covered! This book is also available in audiobook format on Audible and iTunes! Buy your copy today!

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CALLING ALL BOOK REVIEWERS & BOOK BLOGGERS!

Imzadi Publishing has a limited number of promotional codes for free copies of our audiobooks…now!

Click below to learn more about the books on offer. Then, if you are located in the UK or US and are willing to provide an honest review comment below and let us know which book your would like to receive, your choices are:

‘The Red Hand’ by Michael Stephen Daigle

‘The Swamps of Jersey’ by Michael Stephen Daigle

‘The Other Vietnam War – A Helicopter Pilot’s Life in Vietnam’ by Marc Cullison

‘Vietnam Again’ by Marc Cullison

CELTICLADY’S REVIEWS: The Other Vietnam War: A Helicopter Pilot’s Life in Vietnam By Marc Cullison!

Check out this interview with Imzadi Publishing’s author Marc Cullison, author of The Other Vietnam War.

https://celticladysreviews.blogspot.com/2018/07/the-other-vietnam-war-helicopter-pilots.html

Vietnam Again

A torrent of books about the Vietnam War has flooded the market, most of them documenting battles, strategy, and personal journals of life during the war. There are far fewer books about soldiers who have returned to that country of conflict four decades later. Most men and women who served during the Vietnam War were only too glad to leave and never look back. I was one of those people until last year when an unexpected phone call had me considering something I never thought I would do…return to Vietnam.

The two weeks I spent touring Vietnam made me re-evaluate my life and everything I thought I knew about that country and its people. I found answers to questions I had long buried in my mind and found myself absolved of the indignity I had carried all of those years. A vision into America that I had always suspected, but had never seen opened up before me.

The book, Vietnam…Again, follows our flight into Hanoi and the two-week journey south to Ho Chi Minh City, with stops at Dong Hoi, Quang Tri, Hue, Qui Nhon, Nha Trang, and Phan Thiet. Our tour guide, an NVA veteran, became a valued friend and showed us how Vietnam has evolved and prospered since the war. I found a gracious people who welcomed us as friends and shared with us the beauty and hospitality of their country. This book explains the maturing of Vietnam and visits the ancient cities with the striking architecture and craftsmanship that helps define the Vietnamese people.

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The Other Vietnam War

Each of us who served in Vietnam was the guy next door, the average Joe, not a hero. The boy who might date your daughter or sister. The young man who might mow your yard. In Vietnam, we weren’t out to be heroes. We just did our jobs.

For a helicopter pilot, each day was like all the others. You flew the mission and never stopped to think that it might be your last. You didn’t think about the bullet holes in the helicopter, the cracks in the tail boom, or about any of it until night, lying in bed when you couldn’t think of anything else.

The Other Vietnam War is the story of the introduction to a new country, a backward culture, the perils of a combat zone, and the effects on a young lieutenant fresh out of flight school. It does not labor the reader with pages of white-knuckle adventures, as so many other fine books about the Vietnam War do. It instead focuses on the internal battle each soldier fought with himself to make sense of where he was, why he was there, and if he was good enough.

The administrative duties of Commissioned officers, while tame compared to the exploits of valiant pilots who wrote about them, caused a deep introspection into life and its value in an enigmatic place like Vietnam. Aside from the fear, excitement, deliverance, and denial that each pilot faced, the inner battle he fought with himself took its toll. Some of us thought we’d find glory. But many of us discovered there is no glory in war.

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