Author Description

An anthology of memories of a military dentist during the Vietnam conflict. Author Robert L. Engelmeier recalls what he saw and did beyond fillings, extractions, and general dentistry. This unique military memoir helps readers see the Vietnam conflict from a fresh perspective. Rockets, Sand, and Amalgam will appeal to both military veterans and dental staff, as well as anyone who wants to learn about the true experiences of support personnel during their time in Vietnam. A young Air Force Captain and recent graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, author Robert L. Engelmeier was assigned to 483rd USAF Hospital at Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam just three months after graduation. While he had a competent understanding of his responsibilities as a general dentist upon his arrival in Vietnam, he had very little understanding of the military. He recalls stories and incidents from his time there where his ignorance of military protocol occasionally got him into a bit of trouble. An insightful look at how the military functions and operates from the perspective of the "rear" or support personnel, Rockets, Sand, and Amalgam takes readers beyond the dental chair and invites them to look at the Vietnam conflict from a fresh point of view. This book will appeal to readers who enjoy non-traditional war and military memoirs as well as people who are interested in learning about the medical and dental needs of soldiers during conflict.