The Patch and The Stream Where the American Fell

ISBN: 1735251909

Author: Sykes, Ed

Condition: New

Rules are made for people who aren't willing to make up their own. - Chuck YeagerFor Ed Sykes, aka World's Greatest Fighter Pilot, saying something is impossible only makes him want to do it more! The Patch and The Stream Where the American Fell tell his inspiring story of never giving up whether that be achieving his dream of being a fighter pilot or fulfilling a sacred oath: "Leave No Man Behind."This true story will take its readers all over the United States and South-East Asia as it recounts the events in the author's life as well as those of the military men and women serving the United States Air Force during The Vietnam War. He also delves into the often overlooked damage done to those who must function on the sidelines. The casualties of war are not only those that take place on the battlefield. And what happens later, when time has passed, but the memories remain?What should a 66 year old fighter pilot do when he realizes he has one more mission that hasn't been completed? There really is only one thing to do. Strap in and take off on an adventure no one thinks will be anything other than a crash and burn. Afterburner Now!Back Cover: The Patch represents a quest for an elusive symbol of manhood, daredevil ambition and the unwavering courage of fighter pilots from the Vietnam era. It also focuses on what happens when a smart and capable female intelligence officer enters the scene so long dominated by a fraternity of men. Two people are caught in a Catch 22 only to find that fate has a different plan for them, the timing of which is both tragic and ironic.The Stream Where the American Fell delves into the authors quest to make good on our nations promise to its warriors: Leave No Man Behind.Still haunted by his friends death in the Vietnam War 40 years earlier, Ed Sykes begins a new battle, to bring home the unrecovered remains of a fallen brother. He also seeks out the woman whose grief-stricken pleas had never been forgotten. The author races against time and the memories of those whod witnessed that fateful day. Traveling through Laos, he is aided by his trusty guide Phet as they encounter interesting personalities including a village chief and a few shady characters hoping to monetize his single-minded quest.Author Bio: Ed Sykes, aka the Worlds Greatest Fighter Pilot, grew up dreaming about flying. In 1968 he fulfilled that dream when he received his pilot wings. Following a combat tour in an F-105, he continued to fly fighters including the F-4 and the F-16, finishing up his career as the Kansas Air National Guard Unit Commander of the 184th Tactical Fighter Group. He now manages his little ranch in Kansas raising cattle, hogs, chickens, and other furry critters. Sykes and his wife of 54 years, Mary, have four children and 14 grandchildren.