Rex Gooch, former Lighthorse Air Cavalry helicopter pilot, writes from his combat experience and the wealth of information gleaned from interviews with U.S. Army pilots, crew members and other military personnel.

Rex’s first book, Ace: The Story of Lt. Col. Ace Cozzalio, tells the incredible journey of Ace, a bold and courageous U.S. Army helicopter pilot serving in the air cavalry during the Vietnam War. This captivating narrative highlights Ace’s exceptional bravery as he confronts the enemy in the Mekong Delta, revealing the extraordinary character of this dedicated soldier/aviator. Through vivid tales of adventure, unexpected challenges, and acts of valor, the book is a powerful tribute to Ace and the courageous troopers who served in the Air Cavalry in Vietnam.

In 2024, Rex published the Second Edition of the ACE book, now packed with never-before-revealed details about the Battle of Phu My, unearthed during the research for Ace’s Medal of Honor submission. This enhanced version boasts improvements across all chapters, and a bonus of thirty-six extra pages and ten captivating new images. 

Rex’s second book titled, The Aviators: Stories of U.S. Army Helicopter Combat in the Vietnam War, 1971-72 tells the stories of young aviators, fresh out of flight school, who gallantly serve their country in a distant land. Told through remarkable first-hand descriptions, with dramatic images and attention to detail, The Aviators is an action-packed narrative of the helicopter pilots, crew chiefs, and door gunners as they fight an elusive, ruthless enemy, put their lives at risk to rescue fellow soldiers, and come to grips with the realization that their lives are changing forever.