A retired secondary teacher and writer, S.D. Sawyer’s poetry began appearing in national literary magazines over 15 years ago.  Because the Waiting Wife experience during the Vietnam War was such a defining time in her life, it became the focus of her first novel, Prelude to Reveille: A Vietnam Awakening. Learn More. 

Have we made things right with our Vietnam Veterans? 

It’s been almost one-half century since American involvement in this unpopular war, but after reading Prelude to Reveille: A Vietnam Awakening, readers understand why author S.D. Sawyer has written this novel and asked this question.  She recalls and shares events and feelings she, her husband, family and friends faced during this difficult period in American history.

Sawyer presents a hard contrast between the repeatedly tested valor of such noble heroes, and the chilling response to them from this once-proud country.  Prelude to Reveille: A Vietnam Awakening possesses a sense of time and place that foreshadows issues still facing military families.  Its tone and details make it resonate with those who lived during this era as well as future generations who will only learn of these conflicts from a history book.

Bravery and commitment to America are not limited to times of triumph and national celebration, but remain steadfast and true in the face of protracted engagement, ambiguous mission and uncertain outcome.  In this tribute to our soldiers, S.D. Sawyer invokes a call for the America of today to awaken to what Vietnam War era soldiers have lived through, and realize—many still need to be welcomed home.

What others are saying about Prelude to Reveille…

“…With her first novel, S.D. Sawyer fires an illumination round over the battles fought by the soldier’s family during those turbulent years in America. Her insight into heroism on the home-front, scars, fears, and darkness parallel the combat in Vietnam as seldom understood. You will find yourself in this novel and for some of us, we will heal.”
– Captain Frederick W. Greenawalt, U.S. Army

For more helpful customer reviews, check out S.D. Sawyer’s Reviews Page