Vietnam Memoirs: A Passage to Sorrow Kindle Edition

This memoir was originally published in 1971 by Pageant Press International. It went out of print about three decades later. I urged Fr. Robert to have it republished. He was reluctant, saying that a trade publisher might change his text. I see that he found one that he could trust.I was a platoon sergeant with Delta Company, 2d/27th Wolfhounds during the time Fr. Falabella was Catholic chaplain for the 25th Infantry Division. Though I never saw him in the field or anywhere else, he apparently had his hands full ministering to the troops. This book is an account of not only the problems faced by the Army chaplaincy during the Vietnam war, but also of Father Robert's personal trials and "heroics" in combat. He might have been the only chaplain ever to carry an M-16 in combat. Wounded but refusing to take the Purple Heart because it would signify a double standard in his mind (I think he thought the PH was only for the severly wounded), he nonetheless accepted a Silver Star for disarming a suicidal soldier. It is interesting to note that only five chaplains received the Medal of Honor since WWII, and all were Catholic priests. Had he confronted impossible odds, I'm sure Father Robert would have acted above the call of duty. His reasons for carrying a weapon are explained in the book.Surviving combat is often based on chance as well as design. Father Robert recounts an incident looking for a place on the ground to rest for the night. Unable to sleep for fear of being drenched by rain, he moved to a spot under a truck. He fell asleep but was awakened by "a sharp, ear-ringing metallic sound" and heat on the side of his face. An accidentally discharged RPG round had exploded close to the spot where he had originally lain.For Father Falabella, a deadly round landed in a spot that he had vacated. I too was fortunate to have vacated spots that were hit by mortars or rockets, but those who took my place in those spots were not. Company clerk, RTO, squad leader, even a guy taking a simple shower. Read about them in  Traces Of A Lost War

I always enjoy Vietnam memoirs, especially if there is some distance between the time of the tour and the writing of the memoir. The distance allows for reflection and analysis usually gained with the maturing of time. This memoir from J. Robert Falabella, a Catholic priest, is slightly different to the others I've read insomuch as his recounting is not of battles and conditions but more of the men out there doing the fighting.As a priest, Father Falabella had to wear many hats: Ministerial, Psychological, Parental, Mentor etc ... His duties involved ministering to the men, helping the men reconcile what they were ordered to do with the teachings of their faith along with talking men out of suicide. Amazing year in the war-zone of SE Asia.Throughout his tour, Falabella endured physically hard conditions but felt that, to get to the men, he had to live like the men. He had a genuine concern for all the young souls thousands of miles from home and loved ones.He chose to carry a weapon whilst in-country despite there being no mandate that he should. There is a whole page explaining his rationale in making this decision.All-in-all, you come away from this fast read liking the author and admiring his bravery, concern and sense of duty. He walked the walk unlike so many others who talk the talk.Though the book itself won't win any literary prizes, it's honest, it's true and very real. I'm glad I read his book, it was a fast read and upon closing it, I wished there was more.

Father Falabella and I served in the 25th Infantry Division at nearly the same time. I was an enlisted soldier with the 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry out of Cu Chi, like him. I was fortunate to attend several of his Masses. The most meaningful ones were on the hood of a Jeep out in the bush. You could see in Father's eyes his commitment to us and his faith. While I was just another soldier who attended his Mass and then went back to the war, he never knew what a profound impact he had on me. He is singularly responsible for helping me keep my Catholic faith and my humanity-then and now. When I read his book it brought many memories of the war. In many cases, his stories were similar to many of my experiences. I am grateful that he wrote this excellent book. It accurately reflects the terror and madness of the war and the courage and sacrifices of the soldiers who fought it.

Father Robert Falabella is a Priest at my Parish. I bought three of these books; one for me and one each for my two sons. The book arrived at 1630 hours yesterday and at 0100 hours this morning I had already read through page 112. What a man Father Robert is, a man of honor and integrity that did things in Vietnam that went far and above what was required of a Chaplain! This book should be reprinted! If you desire to know how it was in Vietnam this is the book to read! Sincerely, Robert K. Tucker, RMCS USN (Ret.), Naval Advisory Detachment DaNang, Vietnam 1969 - 1970. I have finished reading this book and in my opinion Father Robert is one remarkable man! As a purchaser of many books from Amazon and an avid reader this is one of the best. I talked with Father Robert a few days ago and he said that he would come to our home for dinner and autograph the books for us. It is my honor to know Father Robert and be a Vietnam Brother in Arms of his. Sincerely, Robert K. Tucker

I wanted to read about the Vietnam vet's experience from another point of view. This recollection was very satisfying. This priest was no dugout Doug. He soon realizes the neediest flock are the grunts in the field. It seems that he is channeling Fr. Duffy of WW1 as he goes out and shares the hardships / dangers in the boonies. He gradually identifies so strongly with his men he becomes a true combat soldier. On his return to the world he feels the same letdown,that the society does not honor the sacrifice of citizen soldiers. A worthy testament.

Being a veteran this is a must read for all.