Vietnam Book Author Signing at Fayetteville’s Airborne and Special Operations Museum

On Thursday, August 15, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., there will be an Airborne and Special Operations Museum book signing featuring Thomas Ross author of "Rescue in the Valley of the Tigers."

In the book, Ross details the life-changing events that took place that day saying "after three brave mountain villagers escaped the enemy captors, who had enslaved and abused them for years, they made their way to one of Special Forces Detachment A-502's isolated outposts. There, the American advisers at the outpost placed an urgent call to A-502's Operations and Intelligence officer, 1st Lieutenant Tom Ross.

Reaching the outpost, the lead villager, Mang Quang, begged the young lieutenant for help in rescuing his family and the other families held hostage. Responding to the villager's passionate plea for help, Tom planned and led a rescue team deep into enemy territory and the remote mountain jungle of Vietnam.

Flown to the village by the 281st Assault Helicopter Company and guided by Mang Quang, mist was still rising from a steamy jungle when the team launched a blazing attack early the next morning.

Before the mission was complete, Tom and his small remaining team would become cut off and stranded. The rescue of Tom and his team would fall to others who would risk their lives.

On August 13, 1968, Walter Cronkite reported the story of the rescue on the CBS Evening News. 165 men, women and children had been freed because of the daring and extremely dangerous rescue mission in the Valley of the Tigers."

Renee Lane, Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation Executive Director says that following the event, there will be a Vietnam War Veteran pinning ceremony, as well as a book signing.

Lane also says that all Vietnam War Veterans and active-duty service members get in FREE upon registration.

To register or to get more information about this event, click here.

The United States Airborne and Special Operations Museum is located at 100 Bragg Boulevard in historic downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves for the wild ride that is the 2024 election season! As the political circus unfolds, it's essential to prioritize your sanity and well-being.

The 2024 presidential race has taken several surprising turns in recent months:

The next four months are sure to bring more unexpected developments in this already wild and unprecedented presidential election. But fear not, for I have compiled the ultimate self-care guide to help you navigate these turbulent times with a smile on your face and a spring in your step, (hopefully).

Designate a room in your home as a political-free sanctuary. This is where you can escape the endless debates, mud-slinging, and poll-obsessed pundits. Fill this space with calming elements like scented candles, soothing music, and a life-size cardboard cutout of your favorite non-political celebrity. Remember, in this room, the only party allowed is the one that involves dancing and laughter.

Master the art of selective hearing when it comes to political discussions. When someone starts ranting about their preferred candidate, simply nod and smile while mentally transporting yourself to a tropical beach. If all else fails, perfect the phrase, "Oh, look at the time! I have to go water my pet rock."

When the stress of the election season becomes too much to bear, indulge in some good old-fashioned retail therapy. Treat yourself to that fancy kitchen gadget you've been eyeing or splurge on a cozy blanket to hide under until the inauguration. Just remember, money can't buy happiness, but it can buy a lifetime supply of ice cream to drown your political sorrows.

Laughter is the best medicine, especially during an election year. Seek out political satire, comedy shows, and memes that poke fun at the absurdity of it all. Host a "political roast" party with friends, where you take turns impersonating candidates and their ridiculous campaign promises. Just be sure to keep it light-hearted and remember that laughter unites us all, regardless of political affiliations.

When the 24/7 news cycle becomes too overwhelming, it's time to unplug and recharge. Take a break from social media, turn off the TV, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Go for a walk in nature, read a book (preferably not a political memoir), or take up a new hobby like underwater basket weaving. Disconnecting from the political noise will help you maintain your sanity and perspective.

Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to manage election-related stress. Take deep breaths and repeat calming mantras like, "This too shall pass," or "I am not defined by my political views." When tensions run high, visualize yourself in a peaceful place, like a serene meadow filled with frolicking puppies and kittens wearing tiny "I Voted" stickers.