Fortunate Son (novel)

Fortunate Son is a 1996 novel by Lewis B. Puller, Jr. It is a biographical account of Puller's life, focusing primarily on his experiences during the Vietnam War and his subsequent struggles with physical and emotional trauma. The book details Puller's decision to follow in his father's footsteps and join the United States Marine Corps, his deployment to Vietnam, and the severe injuries he sustained in combat, which resulted in the loss of both his legs and several fingers.

Beyond the battlefield narrative, Fortunate Son explores Puller's readjustment to civilian life, his battle with addiction, his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and his eventual suicide in 1994. The book offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of the realities of war and its lasting impact on individuals and families. It also examines themes of duty, sacrifice, resilience, and the challenges faced by Vietnam War veterans.