Summary

"A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam" is an epic and passionate account of the Vietnam War, centering on the life and career of Lieutenant Colonel John Paul Vann. The book delves into Vann's experiences as a field advisor, his growing disillusionment with the corruption and incompetence of the South Vietnamese regime, and his attempts to steer the American war effort toward a more effective path.

Vann's story becomes a lens through which author Neil Sheehan examines the broader themes of American involvement in Southeast Asia. Initially an ardent believer in the American mission, Vann becomes increasingly critical of the war's conduct. He witnesses firsthand the devastating impact of U.S. policies on the Vietnamese people, the futility of the war of attrition, and the self-deception of military and political leaders.

As Vann grapples with his conscience, he finds himself at odds with his superiors, leading him to leak information to the American press in an attempt to expose the truth and prompt change. The book chronicles Vann's personal journey from idealistic soldier to disillusioned critic, highlighting his complex character, his flaws, and his unwavering commitment to what he believed was right.

Beyond Vann's personal story, "A Bright Shining Lie" provides a sweeping history of the Vietnam War, from its roots in French colonialism to the growing American involvement and the eventual disillusionment. Sheehan examines the key decisions, the personalities involved, and the underlying assumptions that shaped the conflict, offering a damning indictment of American policy and its tragic consequences. It's a story of individual ambition, national hubris, and the devastating human cost of war.