Norman J. Fulkerson

Marine Corps Colonel Ripley is a legend for his heroic defense of the Dong Ha bridge in 1972 during the Vietnam War, for which his bravery was rewarded with the USA's second highest honor, the Navy Cross.

As stunning as the Dong Ha story is, there was much more to Colonel John Ripley. An American Knight narrates his early life and the influences which shaped his personality. 

Readers will also get to know about John Ripley, the father, but more importantly the chaste husband. When he was approached by people wanting to make a movie about his life he agreed as long as his character was not portrayed as having a romantic relationship in Vietnam. “I have never been,” he said, “nor will I ever be unfaithful to my wife.”

A fascinating read about a modern-day Catholic military man that kept to his principles.