Punk's War reveals the inner workings of the US Navy as only an insider can. An authentic and riveting thriller, it is a highly acclaimed novel of a fighter pilot's experience in the era just before 9/11. As the US military enters another postconflict period, the themes of leadership during crisis and accomplishing the mission make Punk's War more relevant than ever.

As if flying for the Navy isn't dangerous enough... The only female aviator in Rick "Punk" Reichert's fighter class rolls wildly during a hop, almost causing a deadly disaster. Punk is initially skeptical of her assertion that faulty equipment is to blame. But when a similar accident claims the life of a fellow instructor, Punk begins to suspect a cover-up involving the use of faulty parts. Just as he starts creating waves with allegations, his squadron is activated to pursue a more urgent matter—the War on Terrorism.

On a mission over central Afghanistan, Punk is hit—and taken captive by the Taliban. And after he escapes, the challenge is not over. Because now Punk must navigate the war-torn country not from the skies, but on the ground—seeing up close for the first time the world resistance fighters, warlords, CIA undercover ops, and corrupt officers who are putting their lives on the line.