Summary:

"The Ballad of Roy Benavidez" by William Sturkey is a compelling account of the life and heroism of Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez, a legendary figure of the Vietnam War. Sturkey’s narrative provides an in-depth look at Benavidez’s extraordinary journey from his humble beginnings to his status as an American hero, offering readers a powerful story of bravery, resilience, and sacrifice.

The dramatic life of Vietnam War hero Roy Benavidez, revealing how Hispanic Americans have long shaped US history, from "a major new voice [with] lyrical powers as a biographer' (David W. Blight, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Frederick Douglass)

In May 1968, while serving in Vietnam, Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez led the rescue of a reconnaissance team surrounded by hundreds of enemy soldiers. He saved the lives of at least eight of his comrades that day in a remarkable act of valor that left him permanently disabled. Awarded the Medal of Honor after a yearslong campaign, Benavidez became a highly sought-after public speaker, a living symbol of military heroism, and one of the country's most prominent Latinos.

Now, historian William Sturkey tells Benavidez's life story in full for the first time. Growing up in Jim Crow-era Texas, Benavidez was scorned as 'Mexican' despite his family's deep roots in the state. He escaped poverty by enlisting in a desegregating military and was first deployed amid the global upheavals of the 1950s. Even after receiving the Medal of Honor, Benavidez was forced to fight for disability benefits amid Reagan-era cutbacks.

An unwavering patriot alternately celebrated and snubbed by the country he loved, Benavidez embodied many of the contradictions inherent in twentieth-century Latino life. The Ballad of Roy Benavidez places that experience firmly at the heart of the American story.

Roy Benavidez was born in poverty in South Texas, of Mexican and Yaqui Indian descent. Orphaned at an early age, he faced numerous hardships but was determined to rise above his circumstances. Joining the U.S. Army at the age of 19, Benavidez embarked on a military career that would eventually lead him to the dense jungles of Vietnam.

Sturkey vividly recounts the harrowing events of May 2, 1968, a day that would forever define Benavidez's legacy. On this day, Benavidez, then a staff sergeant, voluntarily boarded a helicopter to rescue a twelve-man Special Forces team that had been surrounded by North Vietnamese soldiers. Despite being severely wounded, Benavidez continued to fight, saving the lives of at least eight men. His actions on that day earned him the Medal of Honor, which was presented to him by President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

The book delves into Benavidez's post-war life, highlighting his struggles with PTSD and his efforts to advocate for veterans' rights. Sturkey paints a portrait of a man who, despite his heroic status, faced significant challenges but remained dedicated to serving his fellow soldiers and country.

"The Ballad of Roy Benavidez" also explores the broader context of the Vietnam War, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the conflict and its impact on those who fought in it. Sturkey’s meticulous research and engaging writing bring to life the experiences of soldiers on the ground, offering a poignant and insightful perspective on one of America’s most complex wars.

The narrative is enriched with personal anecdotes, military records, and interviews with those who knew Benavidez, creating a comprehensive and intimate portrayal of his life. Sturkey's admiration for Benavidez is evident throughout the book, making it both a tribute and a historical record.

Editorial Reviews:

1. "William Sturkey masterfully captures the essence of Roy Benavidez's heroism and humanity. 'The Ballad of Roy Benavidez' is a gripping and inspirational read." - Military History Review
2. "A profound and moving tribute to a true American hero. Sturkey’s detailed narrative and thorough research make this book an essential addition to Vietnam War literature." - Kirkus Reviews
3. "Sturkey’s account of Roy Benavidez’s life is both heartbreaking and uplifting. A must-read for anyone interested in military history and the stories of unsung heroes." - Publishers Weekly

About the Author:

William Sturkey is an acclaimed historian and author specializing in American history and military affairs. With a focus on stories of bravery and resilience, Sturkey has dedicated his career to bringing to light the experiences of those who have shaped history. His thorough research and engaging storytelling make his works both educational and inspiring.