Library Journal-Rezension

This set of DVDs contains seven documentaries previously produced for the History Channel. Volume 1 is a reissue of Vietnam: On the Frontlines, four programs ranging from the initial large-scale battles in the Ia Drang Valley (1965) to the Fall of Saigon (1975), hosted by Roger Mudd. CBS News films, interviews with veterans, still photos, and stock footage are edited into a compelling overview of the American war, contemporary society, and politics. Volume 2 begins with Command Decisions, an interactive program on the 1968 Tet offensive that viewers may find a bit irritating since they already know most of the answers from viewing the final episode on Volume 1. LBJ and Vietnam: In the Eye of the Storm offers fascinating insights into President Johnson's thinking on the war (1965-68), based on actual recordings of his phone conversations with contemporaries. Unsung Heroes: The Battle of Khe Sanh features interviews with survivors, videos and still photos of the ordeal, and a very moving depiction of a veteran's return to the site more than 30 years later. All seven episodes have been released separately or as part of other sets. Overall, this current compilation provides an excellent overview of U.S. involvement in the Vietnamese conflict; nicely packaged and very attractively priced. For adults only. Very highly recommended for history and political science collections.--Cliff Glaviano, Bowling Green State Univ. Libs., OH (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.