SOG MEDIC: STORIES FROM VIETNAM AND OVER THE FENCE

The normally neglected story of the heroism and dedication of medics * Action packed and detailed account The Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) was a highly classified, multi-service United States Special Forces unit which conducted covert unconventional warfare operations prior to and during the Vietnam War. Established on 24th January 1964, the unit conducted strategic reconnaissance missions in Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam), the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam), Laos, and Cambodia; carried out the capture of enemy prisoners, rescued downed pilots, and conducted rescue operations to retrieve allied prisoners of war throughout Southeast Asia; and conducted clandestine agent team activities and psychological operations. In the years since the Vietnam War, the elite unit known as SOG has spawned many myths, legends and war stories. But few of these stories are told with the perspective and detailed recall of Special Forces medic Joe Parnar. Parnar served with SOG during 1968 in FOB2/CCC near the tri-border area that gave them access to the forbidden areas of Laos and Cambodia. During his tour with SOG he served as dispensary medic, chase medic, Hatchet Force medic and as a recon team member. This variety of roles gave him experience not only in combat but in dealing with and treating the civilians and indigenous peoples of that area. His candid stories capture the extraordinary commitment made by all the men of SOG and reveal the special dedication of the tireless medics, who put their own lives at risk to save the lives of their team-mates.