Reflections Behind the Retina

Reflections Behind the Retina is an account of actual events during the civil war in El Salvador. A series of short stories records the political restrictions and rules of engagement placed on the U.S. military, as well as the dangers faced from the Salvadoran left and right political camps. The official denial by the United States government of the combat role and deaths of U.S. military personnel is exposed throughout the text. A brief Salvadoran military history prepares the reader for what follows. Except for national leaders, the names of the characters in the text have been changed.

JOHN GUZMAN was born and raised in the Bronx, New York City. He retired from the US Army as a Chief Warrant Officer 3 with tours in Europe and Central America. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award (El Salvador), two awards of the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, two awards of the National Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and Air Crewman Badge. Upon retirement he worked for General Dynamics in the development, fielding and support of the SINCGARS radio.