A Murder Most Foul: The Life of a Hitman

Chapter 16. THEN: GOODNIGHT VIETNAM

In Chapter 16, Notch wakes up after being severely injured in a mission. He is greeted by his comrades, Rich, Coop, and Thomas, who inform him that Allan is dead and Sarge was injured.  Sarge ‘awards’ Notch the Order of Ho Chi Minh, which he took off General Lan Tan Fong after killing him. The chapter concludes with Sarge informing the team that their unit is being disbanded and they are being sent back to the United States. Notch reflects on his uncertain future and the loss of his comrades, while Sarge offers them a chance to join his “contracting” business. The chapter ends with a mix of emotions as the team prepares to leave Vietnam and return to civilian life.

CHAPTER 15: THEN-DEATH AND FORNICATION

Chapter 15: THEN-DEATH AND FORNICATION
In this chapter, Notch and the team embark on one of their most dangerous missions, an incursion deep into North Vietnam. Their target is General Lan Tan Fong, whose unit conducts raids into Thailand, kidnapping women for forced prostitution. The team travels from Thailand to Laos and then crosses into North Vietnam. The journey is fraught with danger, and the team faces numerous challenges, including booby traps and sniper attacks.
As they approach the compound, they discover that US troops are working with the enemy, loading kidnapped Thai women onto trucks. Notch and the team decide to free the hostages, eliminate General Fong, and destroy the trucks. The mission is intense and chaotic, with the team taking out multiple targets and facing heavy gunfire. Tragically, Notch’s friend Allan and another team member, Miles, are killed during the operation. Notch is severely injured but manages to survive.
The chapter highlights the brutality and complexity of war, the camaraderie among the team members, and the personal sacrifices they make. It also underscores Notch’s determination and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.

CHAPTER 14: THEN: THE INVISIBLE HANDS OF GOD

Chapter 14: THEN-THE INVISIBLE HANDS OF GOD
In this chapter, Notch’s unit often supports a highly classified special ops unit known as MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group). This unit conducted covert unconventional warfare operations during the Vietnam War. Notch’s team, although secret, often provides long-range sniper support during these operations. Notch recalls a particular mission where their support was highly appreciated, and they were referred to as "Bàn tay vô hình của Chúa" or "The invisible hand of God" by the Viet Cong. This chapter highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect between Notch’s team and the MACV-SOG unit, as well as the dangerous and covert nature of their missions.

CHAPTER 13. THEN: I DON’T SAY ‘SABATAGE’ [SIC]

Chapter 13: THEN-I DON’T SAY ‘SABATAGE’ [SIC]
In this chapter, Notch reflects on the power of friendship and camaraderie within their group. They find solace in watching the TV show "Star Trek," which emphasizes the importance of friendship. The group, forged in the fires of their experiences, becomes iron-clad friends. Despite the challenges and dangers they face, they maintain a strong bond and support each other.
The chapter also highlights Notch’s admiration for their leader, Sarge, who instilled a sense of family and unity within the group. Sarge's leadership and the group's intellectual debates on various topics, including religion and philosophy, showcase their depth and complexity. Notch appreciates the education and values imparted by Sarge, which help him navigate the corruption and death surrounding them.

Chapter 12. THEN: WILD THINGS

Chapter 12: THEN: WILD THINGS
In this chapter, the Notch reflects on the wild and unpredictable nature of their life as a hitman. The chapter delves into the camaraderie and intellectual debates among the members of the assassination unit, highlighting their deep bond and shared experiences. Despite the grim nature of their work, the team finds solace in the philosophical discussions and the sense of family instilled by their leader, Sarge. The chapter also touches on Notch’s internal struggles and the impact of their violent profession on their psyche. Through a series of anecdotes and reflections, the chapter paints a vivid picture of Notch's life, blending moments of humor, introspection, and the harsh realities of their profession.

CHAPTER 11. THEN: GEDUNKS

CHAPTER 11. THEN: GEDUNKS
 
In this chapter, Notch and the team are dealing with the intense heat and humidity while sitting around bored. Coop, one of the team members, suggests going out for "gedunks," which is Navy slang for snacks or desserts. The team decides to go to a place called "The Rampant Geisha," which turns out to be a brothel. Despite initial reservations, they end up enjoying “ice cream” and the atmosphere.
The chapter highlights the camaraderie and humor among the team members as they navigate their challenging and often dangerous lives. It provides a glimpse into their coping mechanisms and the lighter moments that help them endure the stress and danger of their work.

Chapter 10. THEN : DEATH OF A SPY

Chapter 10: Death of a Spy
In this intense chapter, Notch faces a moral and emotional dilemma after eliminating Lan Bich Hong, a Viet Cong spy. Notch's mentor, Sarge, reassures them that the mission was necessary to save lives, but Notch struggles with the psychological impact of killing a woman. The chapter delves into the complexities of espionage and sabotage during the Vietnam War, highlighting the blurred lines between friend and foe. Notch's internal conflict is further explored as he grapples with the arousal he felt during the kill, questioning his own motivations. Sarge provides guidance and support, helping Notch understand the importance of their actions in the larger context of the war. This chapter is a poignant exploration of the emotional toll of being a hitman and the moral ambiguities of their profession.

CHAPTER 9. THEN: DEATH OF A MAIDEN

Chapter 9: Death of a Maiden
In this gripping chapter, we delve into one of Notch’s most memorable and challenging missions. Tasked with eliminating Lan Bich Hong, the mistress of a high-ranking US General, Notch faces a formidable opponent. Lan Bich Hong, a Viet Cong spy, proves to be both beautiful and deadly. Notch's meticulous planning and execution are put to the test as he navigates the complexities of the mission. The tension builds as Notch confronts the reality of taking a life, especially that of a woman who is both an enemy and a captivating presence. This chapter is a testament to Notch's skills and the psychological and physical toll of his profession.

CHAPTER 8. THEN-GOOD MORNING VIETNAM

Chapter 8: Then- Good Morning Vietnam
In this chapter, Notch arrives in Vietnam on February 25, 1967, and is greeted by Sarge at Tan Son Nhut Airbase. They head to the Continental Palace Hotel in District One, where Notch is reunited with his brothers. The chapter vividly describes his initial experiences in Vietnam, including the bustling streets of Saigon and the luxurious quarters at the hotel. Notch quickly adapts to the new environment, enjoying the perks of unlimited booze and female companionship, but soon realizes the seriousness of their mission. The chapter explores his role in conducting specified operations against specific targets, highlighting the complexities and dangers of their work. Notch’s skills and training are put to the test as he navigates the challenges of espionage and sabotage during the Vietnam War. This chapter provides a detailed look into Notch’s life in Vietnam, emphasizing the camaraderie among the team and the psychological toll of their profession.

CHAPTER 7. NOW: THURSDAY, THE FOURTH CASING AND MAKING THE SCENE

Chapter 7: Now: Thursday the Fourth-Casing and Making the Scene
In this chapter, the Notch meticulously prepares for the upcoming mission. He meets with Major, who provides a dark burgundy overcoat to ensure Notch is recognizable. Notch is shown the layout of the building, including the entrance, the patsy's position, and the target's approach. Notch’s strategic mind is highlighted as he questions the logistics and ensures everything is in place for a smooth execution. The tension builds as Notch navigates the complexities of the mission, emphasizing the importance of precision and planning. This chapter is a masterclass in the art of assassination, showcasing the Notch’s expertise and the constant danger he faces.