Punk's War — Ward Carroll

This is the real Navy, as seen through the eyes of a veteran pilot. Set on a carrier in the postwar Persian Gulf, this "remarkably honest book" (The Baltimore Sun) takes us through the highs and lows experienced by Navy lieutenant Rick "Punk" Reichert, who loves flying more than anything--even if his life is turning into one big dogfight.

First there's the constant threat of enemy engagements, the restlessness of his girl back home, and his future career in and out of uniform. But things really heat up when his superior (in rank only) officer takes on an Iraqi pilot with tragic results. It's an international incident that, somehow, makes the officer a hero--and nearly--sends Punk flying out of control....