Blaze of Light

The Inspiring True Story of Green Beret Medic Gary Beikirch, Medal of Honor Recipient

By: Marcus Brotherton

Narrated by: Ray Porter

Length: 8 hrs and 25 mins

Publisher's Summary

For fans of Unbroken and Hacksaw Ridge comes the powerful true story of a Medal of Honor recipient who faced more than his fair share of battles - and overcame them through perseverance and faith.

"What Gary Beikirch did to receive his medal is unforgettable - and the story of what he overcame afterward is as big and moving as they come." (Gary Sinise)

After dawn the siege began. It was April 1, 1970, and Army Green Beret medic Gary Beikirch knew the odds were stacked against their survival. Some 10,000 enemy soldiers sought to obliterate the 12 American Special Forces troops and 400 indigenous fighters who stood fast to defend 2,300 women and children inside the village of Dak Seang. For his valor and selflessness during the ruthless siege, Beikirch would be awarded a Medal of Honor, the nation's highest and most prestigious military decoration. 

But Gary returned home wounded in body, mind, and soul. To find himself again, Gary retreated to a cave in the mountains of New England, where a redemptive encounter with God allowed Gary to find peace. 

New York Times best-selling author Marcus Brotherton chronicles the incredible true story of a person who changed from lost to found. Gripping and unforgettable, and written with a rich and vivid narrative voice, Blaze of Light will inspire you to answer hurt with ingenuity, to reach for faith, and to find clarity and peace within any season of storm.

©2020 Marcus Brotherton (P)2020 Random House Audio

Critic Reviews

"The Medal of Honor Society is comprised of a highly elite group of American heroes. What Gary Beikirch did to receive his medal is unforgettable - and the story of what he overcame afterward is as big and moving as they come." (Gary Sinise, Oscar-nominated actor) 

"From the windblast of landing choppers to the sensory assault of close-quarters battle, Blaze of Light put me right in the middle of the steaming jungles of Vietnam. Gary Beikirch was grievously wounded and facing a ruthless enemy, and his selfless choices made him the rarest of war heroes - one whose valor is measured not in lives taken but in lives saved." (Lynn Vincent, New York Times best-selling author of Indianapolis)

"You will be blessed by this story of amazing courage and selflessness. What happened on April 1, 1970, at Camp Dak Seang in the Kontum Province of South Vietnam forever changed the life of Gary Beikirch. He is a true American hero - a man of humility, faith, and servant leadership. This story is so powerful it could change your life." (Colonel Jim Coy (Ret.), 3rd SFG, Persian Gulf War) 

very good

So much humility for someone so accomplished. I definitely enjoyed this book and Ray Porter as always did an amazing job narrating!

Hope for the future

As a veteran of Iraq who was severely wounded this book gives me hope for the future of my own life.

Incredible story

I felt I was in Vietnam or in a cave or a hospital. People need to know the story of Gary Beikirch and he fellow Vietnam Veterans. His struggle was real and shows how faith can overcome the strongest of lifes heartaches.

Sincerely Beautiful

As a veteran I was able to relate to his hardships, the feeling of helplessness, rage and loss. Gary reveals a checkered past, a terrifing battle and his bone chilling hardships; but also a way out of dispair, rage and isolation. This book brought me through every emotion, good and bad; but left me with more hope then when I started. Thank you Marcus for telling his story.

The Power of Christ

Wow. This is one of the bet books. And that’s saying something considering it was written by Marcus Brotherton. The story of Gary Beikirch is one of early loss, untold bravery as a Green Beret, and ultimately salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ. Gary’s story runs the gamut, but it’s the beauty of redemption that brings the story to completion, as it is for all who come to Christ. What an amazing life story. Ray Porter’s narration is sublime.

Excellent Riveting and Well Written

I absolutely loved this book. wow! Unbelievable endurance. This story is riveting and inspiring. I couldn't stop listening!! I highly recommend it to anyone who needs needs a boost in Faith!

JUST WOW!

Thank you, to Gary, and ALL VETS! Regardless of the Branch, regardless of the War/Conflict, you deserve respect for doing the job others can't/won't do. THANK YOU!

THANK you Marcus for putting Gary's words to paper. His story..... words fail me.... it brought tears to my eyes.

Thank you Ray Porter, for bringing this book to life!

A true inspiration of service to our country!

A perfect story of how God works our life for the good of this world.

extremely encouraging and inspiring story!

this book gave me chills!!! I thoroughly enjoyed listening! it spoke to me and helped me gain a better appreciation for Gary and I can't wait to talk to him this veteran's day at my church!

I loved hearing your heartfelt life story

Thank-you for telling your life story. You made a positive impact on me. Getting through difficulties changes lives. Many listeners will relate to you.