As protests raged throughout the United States, soldiers in Vietnam fought for their lives. Upon their return, they were treated with disdain for conspiring with an evil government. In reality, they were just small pieces in a larger, complicated game. But they were more than that. They were also Americans.
Growing up in Cleveland presented author Ralph Harris with unique challenges. He-a young black man-was constantly stopped by police wanting to know what he was doing driving through their white suburbs. Meanwhile, he watched the areas in which his family and friends were allowed to live decline to the point of being barely livable. But even that couldn't prepare him for war. In 1968, when he was nineteen, Harris was drafted-and the ensuing year would change the course of his life. He returned home from his tour of duty suffering from debilitating PTSD.
Many veterans share a similar story: blinding nightmares, flashbacks, unpredictable moods, and irrational responses that often prevent a normal life. Expendable and Necessary, Harris's compelling memoir, is the result of a healing journey-for it was only by mentally reliving events and chronicling his demons that Harris was able to put them to rest.
About the Author: Ralph Harris served in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, completing a tour of duty in Vietnam as a rifleman in the decorated 2/5 battalion from 1968 to 1969.
After his discharge, Harris worked in the automotive industry for thirty-seven years, first as journeyman die maker and then lead die maker with General Motors. A member of the United Auto Workers union, he was elected to serve as a union official for three terms.
Now retired, Harris lives in Texas with his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. He and his wife, Elaine, have been married for forty-six years.
