SOG Kontum: Top Secret Missions in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, 1968–1969 by Joe Parnar and Robert Dumont is an outstanding account of the classified and daring missions conducted by the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG). This book focuses on the operations of the SOG* Teams that operated out of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) 2 in Kontum, near the tri-border area, during the Vietnam War. What sets SOG Kontum apart is the authors' ability to present the events through the words of the men themselves, supported by previously unreleased official documents. The authors have gained access to previously unreleased documents, which provides additional insight into the operations. The documents include after-action reports, mission reports, and intelligence reports. The use of these documents provides a deeper understanding of the operations and adds considerable value to the book.

The style of writing is straightforward, concise and yet powerful, capturing the essence of the events and the emotions that the men went through. The authors' extensive research, use of maps, photographs, and drawings, add to the richness and depth of the book, making it a compelling and informative read for anyone interested in the history of Special Forces operations.

The authors, both former members of SOG, provide a firsthand account of their experiences operating out of FOB2 Kontum near the tri-border area. The book is a collection of individual stories and anecdotes that capture the intensity, danger, and sacrifice of the men who served in SOG. The book focuses on the period between 1968-69, when SOG Kontum was at the height of its operations. One of the key themes that emerge from the book is the importance of teamwork and trust. The men who served in SOG Kontum relied heavily on one another and trusted each other with their lives. The book highlights the bravery, skill, and determination of the men who served in SOG Kontum and their remarkable achievements.

One of the strengths of the book is the use of personal accounts. The authors do an excellent job of capturing the emotions and thoughts of the men involved in the missions. The stories are often harrowing, and the sacrifices made by the men are evident throughout the book. The individual vignettes make for a compelling read and provide a unique insight into the world of SOG.

The book is organized into individual chapters that focus on specific missions and events. Each chapter is written in a straightforward and concise manner, providing the reader with a clear understanding of each operation. The authors use a combination of personal accounts and official documents to provide an accurate and detailed description of the events.

The book starts with the "ST Iowa Recon--Company B Road Mining Operation" chpater, which sets the tone for the intense and dangerous covert missions detailed in the book. Each chapter tells a story of bravery, heroism, and sacrifice by the SOG Teams as they conduct strategic reconnaissance missions, rescue downed pilots, capture enemy prisoners, and carry out clandestine agent team activities and psychological operations across Southeast Asia.

"The Loss of John Kedenburg" chapter recounts the painful loss suffered by the SOG Teams when Captain Richard G. Kedenburg was killed in action while leading his team to recover his missing comrade. The "Tony Love" chapter details the remarkable teamwork and bravery required to rescue wounded SOG members that were stranded for days behind enemy lines. The Duffield – RT Hawaii chapter tells about the daring rescue of POWs from a heavily guarded prison camp.

The other chapters are equally gripping, full of details and insights into the nature of insurgency warfare, the struggles of the SOG Teams, and the price they paid to succeed. These accounts read like a gripping novel. 

The book is not without its flaws. At times, the narrative can be disjointed as the authors move between individual stories. The book also assumes a certain level of knowledge about the Vietnam War, which may make it difficult for readers who are not familiar with the conflict. Overall, SOG Kontum: Top Secret Missions in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, 1968–1969 is an excellent book and a valuable contribution to the historical record of the Vietnam War. The authors' use of personal accounts and official documents provide a unique insight into the operations of SOG Kontum. The book serves as a testimony to the bravery and sacrifices of the men who served in SOG Kontum, and their courage and determination in the face of overwhelming adversity. Highly recommended for those interested in the history of the Vietnam War.

* SOG is an abbreviation for Studies and Observations Group which conducted covert unconventional warfare operations before and during the Vietnam War.