John Podlaski served in Vietnam during 1970 and 1971 as an infantryman with both the Wolfhounds of the 25th Division, and the 501st Infantry Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, two Air Medals, and a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. "Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel" is his first book, published in 2010, it is faring well with over 300 combined reviews with an average of 4.6 stars. The story is a memoir of his time as as infantry soldier during the Vietnam War.
John spent the years since Vietnam working in various management positions within the automotive industry and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 2002. John is a life member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 and lives with his wife of 43 years, Janice, in Sterling Heights, Michigan. They both retired in 2013 and enjoy riding their 1997 Harley-Davidson Heritage.
Mr. Podlaski published his second book, "When Can I Stop Running?" in 2016. It's a spinoff from his first novel, and follows two soldiers during a terrifying night - alone in the jungle - on a listening post. Some of the characters from Cherries are also included in this story.
John is currently busy managing a website featuring weekly articles/stories, movies, videos, and photos about the Vietnam War. The address can be found below.