
When Big Blue Went to War
by Dan E. Feltham
"A History of the Ibm Corporation’S Mission in Southeast Asia During the Vietnam War (1965–1975)"
Popularity
4.32 / 5
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When Big Blue Went to War by Dan E. Feltham
Details
War:
Vietnam War
Perspective:
Logistics
Military Unit:
US Army
Biography:
No
Region:
Asia
Page Count:
336
Published Date:
2012
ISBN13:
9781458204400
Description
Main Themes and Topics
When Big Blue Went to War by Dan E. Feltham delves into the unique intersection between technology and warfare, specifically focusing on the involvement of IBM Corporation employees in the Vietnam War. The book explores the motivations of a select group of IBM bachelors who chose to leave secure, well-paying jobs in the United States to enter a conflict zone. Themes of duty, patriotism, and the technological evolution of warfare underscore the narrative. Feltham offers an in-depth look at how data processing played a critical role in monitoring and managing military operations both on the ground and in the air, a pioneering endeavor at the time. The book further highlights the personal stories and experiences of these IBM employees, who were dubbed "wild ducks," and their interactions with the military personnel in Southeast Asia.
Writing Style and Tone
Dan E. Feltham writes with a blend of technical detail and human interest that captures the reader's attention from multiple angles. The tone of the book is both informative and engaging, balancing the historical context of the Vietnam War with personal anecdotes and experiences of the IBMers involved. Feltham's writing style illuminates the sense of adventure and peril these employees faced, while also offering insights into the broader geopolitical stakes at play.
Criticism
While When Big Blue Went to War offers a compelling narrative that blends history with personal stories, some readers might find the technical passages to be dense and challenging to follow. The emphasis on data processing and technical operations may not appeal to those looking for a purely human-focused war story. However, for readers interested in the technological aspects of modern warfare, Feltham’s detailed descriptions provide a fascinating backdrop to the personal stories of courage and sacrifice.
Brief Summary (no spoilers)
When Big Blue Went to War unfolds the untold story of IBM Corporation’s significant role during the Vietnam War through the eyes of its employees. The book captures the essence of the mission: a group of approximately 250 handpicked IBM employees were sent overseas to support the U.S. military’s computing needs. These individuals lived alongside military personnel, installed and maintained IBM equipment, and played crucial roles in processing data essential for military operations. Moreover, the book covers the personal trajectories of these employees, their relationships with local people, and their subsequent reintegration into American society post-war. Feltham’s narrative includes a poignant account of IBM's attempts to assist its Vietnamese employees during the tumultuous events of the Fall of Saigon, offering readers a rare glimpse into the complexities of war beyond the battlefield.