Requiem For A Soldier: A Vietnam Story

Requiem For A Soldier: A Vietnam Story

Jorge Salazar is an initiated member of the Latin Kings street gang. When he finds his heroin addicted mother dead on the bathroom floor, he begins to question everything about his life. Visualizing a high probability of an early death as a gang member, Salazar decides that escaping New York is his only alternative. He enlists in the United States Army and after basic training, he is deployed to Vietnam where he faces the life and death challenges he thought he left behind. I decided to keep "Requiem for a Soldier," purposely short.  I wanted the reader to get a feeling of what it was like to serve in the military and face numerous life and death situations in a place like Vietnam. After describing a number of battle scenes and personal events that my main character experienced, it would have dragged on into oblivion if I kept retelling battle happenings and personal discomforts of this soldier, etc.  In this book, unlike my others, I felt less is more. I think I related it well for the reader who has never served in the military, who is unaware of the horrors of war and especially this war where the service member was/is looked upon with disdain instead of the noble sacrifice he/she made in serving their country. This story is to honor them and their families. As long as memory exists, so will their sacrifices. Harris L. Kligman was born and raised in the heart of the "City of Brotherly Love," Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. However, his journey would soon lead him far beyond his hometown and into the realms of international intrigue and literary creativity. Leaving Philadelphia in his early twenties, Harris embarked on a remarkable adventure that spanned over three and a half decades. During this extensive period, he engaged with a diverse array of military governments and business entities that held sway over the Far East, Africa, and South America. ​Harris L. Kligman is a true polymath, with a rich tapestry of skills and experiences. He is a linguist, wielding the power of language to connect with individuals from all walks of life. His devotion to the Martial Arts is evident through his attainment of a coveted Black Belt in Hapkido, an achievement earned during his time in South Korea. ​Moreover, Harris is a retired United States Army Intelligence Officer, a role that showcases his deep commitment to serving his country. Not content with just one specialty, he is also cross-trained as an Infantry Officer, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability in the military sphere. ​These diverse life experiences and his profound understanding of the world have provided Harris with a unique perspective that he brings to his novels. His literary works are enriched by the wisdom garnered from his interactions and adventures, making his books both engaging and insightful. ​In summary, Harris L. Kligman's life is a testament to a boundless spirit of adventure and a commitment to excellence in various fields. From his roots in Philadelphia to his global travels and multifaceted expertise, he is a truly remarkable individual whose experiences and talents have found their expression in the world of literature.