Absolutely.
I read other SEA war books with a critical eye. Did it really happen that way? For example, the book on Illingsworth missed the two major incompetences of the II Field Force Arty commander that caused the whole fiasco... and a few dead friends.
On the other hand, when I read McMaster’s book, I was very pizzed. It was obviously very well researched and entirely true. I had believed in the “wisdom” coming from DOD and DA, and operated accordingly. We all did.... and it was CYOA limp-wrist BS from the entire civilian and military (non) leadership.
McMaster’s book clearly illustrates what we all know now. The war was winnable early on, and even into 68-70, but if the fools at the top were too CS to do that, we never should have been there. Had we in the field been told, “Fix bayonets, double arm interval, line of skirmishers, walking fire, march on Hanoi,” we would have, but DC had no balls.... and it was all political BS.
BTW, the book was so spot on it cost McMaster some very well deserved promotions.
McMaster’s book was a wake up call for me too. I was so angry when I put it down.
Then I read McNamara’s “In retrospect” and became even incensed.
I have collected many books on the subject. That war haunts me to this day, as so many of us were affected by it.