This first cradle-to-grave biography of Colonel John W. Ripley provides readers with the complete story about a great man who is considered by Marines, such as General Carl Mundy, former Commandant of the Marine Corps, to be on the same level as legends Chesty Puller and Dan Daly.
Colonel Ripley is most commonly known for his heroics in Vietnam during the Easter Offensive of 1972, where Colonel Gerald Turley ordered him to hold and die, in the face of over 30,000 North Vietnamese and 200 enemy tanks. John Ripley proceeded to blow the Dong Ha bridge, preventing the enemy from crossing. He unhesitatingly obeyed and earned the nation s second highest honor, the Navy Cross.
As stunning as the Dong Ha story is, there was much more to Colonel John Ripley. An American Knight: The Life of Colonel John W. Ripley, USMC narrates his early life and the influences which shaped his personality.
In youth, he was a rambunctious Huckleberry Finn who spent his days getting into all kinds of mischief
Because of his compelling and uncommon level of service to this great nation Colonel John Ripley truly deserves to be held up as a role model for all to follow. Norman Fulkerson s book will help ensure this. -- Colonel Gerald Turley, USMC (Ret.) "Letter"
Norman Fulkerson has produced a fine book which provides well-deserved tribute to a great man. -- General Carl E. Mundy, USMC (Ret.) "Letter"
