The Torch

About the Book

The Torch is the story of two young draftees who survive the vicious early war in Vietnam, only to return home where one drifts into a life of crime and murder, and the other meets personal tragedy. Jim Orletti and Lou Pizzatelli arrive in Southeast Asia during the spring of 1964, initially approaching their assignment as an adventure. That is their first mistake. Unknown to them, the war in their area of northern South Vietnam is about to undergo an explosive escalation. The two friends are assigned to the U.S. Army advisory team in the city of Hue, precisely where North Vietnamese Colonel Bui Xinh is planning a major attack.

Much of the story involves the experiences Orletti and Pizzatelli share with fellow Americans Captain Ed Welch and Colonel Bill Carlin as they attempt to prevent Colonel Xinh, assisted by his loyal Sergeant Hahn, from defeating the South Vietnamese Army. The scene ultimately shifts back to the United States, where Orletti and Pizzatelli struggle to fit into a society that feels only apathy and hostility toward them. They soon realize that the future may hold something quite different from what they expected.

"Thanks for the copy of The Torch. I read and really enjoyed the first chapter - brought back a lot of memories.
I do think you have a talent, based on what I've read, and I wish you much luck."
Nelson DeMille
Best-selling author.

About the Author

James A. Oliveri is a native Long Islander who graduated from Lawrence High School with a Regents scholarship. He attended New York University prior to entering service with the United States Army. Mr. Oliveri is a Vietnam combat veteran who earned eight decorations, including the Combat Infantry Badge, Army Commendation Medal, and Conspicuous Service Cross.

Following his separation from the service, James A. Oliveri embarked on a career as a financial professional, eventually becoming a Vice President with a major commercial bank. He served as editor and chief writer for the bank's internal publications. His background includes many years of marketing and business development experience.

Mr. Oliveri is very active in the community, having been a member of Kiwanis International since 1968 and serving two terms as local club president. He has won numerous awards as editor of the club's newsletter. He is also a Past Commander of an American Legion Post, and is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

James A. Oliveri is married, and lives with his wife, Maureen, in Baldwin, New York. The couple has four children and two grandchildren.

The Torch is based in part on Mr. Oliveri's experiences with an advisory team in Vietnam, and is his first novel.