Waiting Wives

Brief Summary

Waiting Wives by Donna Moreau offers an evocative glimpse into a unique aspect of the Vietnam War era. The book tells the story of Schilling Manor, an Air Force base in Kansas set aside for the families of soldiers sent to fight in Vietnam. Moreau, who herself grew up as part of this community, provides a personal narrative enriched by historical context. The focus is on the emotional battles fought by the women and children left behind—those who lived in a world where their lives were intertwined with the ongoing war in Vietnam.

Main Themes and Topics

The central themes of Waiting Wives revolve around the emotional challenges faced by the families stationed at Schilling Manor. The book explores the themes of sacrifice, resilience, and patriotism. Moreau illuminates the struggles of "waiting wives," who contended with isolation and anxiety as they supported their soldier spouses from afar. This narrative also delves into the societal expectations placed on military families during the era and reflects on a nation experiencing tumultuous change during the Vietnam War.

Writing Style and Tone

Donna Moreau employs a poignant and empathetic tone in Waiting Wives. The writing style is both narrative and descriptive, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the experiences of these families. Moreau's firsthand perspective as the daughter of a Schilling Manor wife brings a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the storytelling. Her writing serves to personalize the broader historical events, making the emotional realities faced by these women palpable and compelling.

Criticism

While Waiting Wives has been praised for its heartfelt depiction of the challenges faced by military families, some readers might wish for a broader perspective that includes the experiences of the soldiers in Vietnam. The focus on the home front, while illuminating, leaves out the direct wartime experiences of the soldiers, which could have provided a more comprehensive view of the era. Additionally, readers seeking an academic analysis of the Vietnam War might find the memoir style less rigorous in exploring military strategies or combat details.