Absolution: Charlie Company 3rd Battalion, 22nd Infantry

Absolution is a true description of battle as Chuck Boyle saw it in Vietnam. He lays bare the raw emotions of the men who fought there, and his story serves as a vindication for their gallant sacrifice. It candidly contradicts the common and profane portrayal of the Vietnam veteran and liberates him from an unjustified stigma of shame. This true story is one of horror and love. It speaks to the vulgarity of war, and the nobility of the warrior.

Charles J. Boyle grew up in rural Pennsylvania, entering the Army as a private in 1958. He rose swiftly through the ranks, earning a Commission through Infantry Officer Candidate School in 1966, retiring as a Major in 1978. He received his B.A. in History from the University of Tampa in 1973.

Assigned to Vietnam during 1967 and 1968, he commanded a platoon in combat and, at the outbreak of the Tet Offensive, was selected to command Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 22nd Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Among his many awards are two Silver Stars for gallantry in action, two Bronze Stars for valor, the Purple Heart, and numerous other awards for service.

Boyle is an active member of several Vietnam veteran associations, writing newsletters and collecting historical data pertaining to that era. He is frequently the featured speaker at reunions and other civic functions. Currently, he teaches High School JROTC near his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.