Picture a duo of American storytellers who turned the chaos of the Vietnam War into gripping military thrillers—meet Eric Helm! This pseudonym hides the dynamic writing team of Kevin D. Randle and Bob Cornett, whose authentic, action-packed novels like the Vietnam Ground Zero series have thrilled readers for decades. With Randle’s combat experience and Cornett’s investigative flair, they crafted tales that feel as real as they are riveting.
Eric Helm’s stories aren’t just about war; they’re about the soldiers, their struggles, and the absurdities of command, all woven with humor and heart. Ready to dive into their world of helicopters, jungles, and high-stakes missions? Let’s explore the men behind the name and their unforgettable legacy.
The Making of Eric Helm
Kevin D. Randle, a retired Army lieutenant colonel, flew helicopters in Vietnam, logging over 1,100 hours of combat time. Born in Iowa, he graduated from the University of Iowa and later earned advanced degrees from California Coast University and American Military University. Bob Cornett, his writing partner, was a fellow Iowan with a knack for hunting, fishing, and storytelling. A private investigator and fire medic, Cornett brought a gritty, real-world perspective to their work. The two met in the early 1970s at the University of Iowa, bonding over science fiction and a shared passion for writing. Their collaboration began when literary agent Sharon Jarvis saw their military backgrounds as perfect for crafting Green Beret novels, launching the Eric Helm pseudonym.
Eric Helm’s Unforgettable Stories
The Vietnam Ground Zero series, starting with Vietnam: Ground Zero in 1986, is Eric Helm’s flagship work. This 30-book saga follows the Scorpion Squad, led by Captain Mack Gerber, through the jungles of Vietnam in 1965. Expect pulse-pounding missions, like ambushes and covert ops into Cambodia, laced with sharp dialogue and critiques of military bureaucracy. Readers praise its MASH-like humor and authentic details, drawn from Randle’s wartime experiences.
The Scorpion Squad series, including titles like Body Count and The Nhu Ky Sting, kicks off in 1984 with high-octane Special Forces action. For aviation buffs, the Wings Over Nam series delivers adrenaline-pumping helicopter thrillers, reflecting Randle’s pilot days. The Super Vietnam Ground Zero series, with books like Sniper, dives into intense missions against Soviet Spetsnaz. Helm’s style blends meticulous tactics with human stories, making war’s chaos feel personal and immediate.
What sets Helm apart? Their ability to balance gritty realism with humor and heart. Characters like Gerber and Sergeant Anthony Fetterman leap off the page, facing not just the Viet Cong but also clueless generals and red tape. Fans call the books ‘riveting’ for their blend of action and insight into the soldier’s life.
Why Eric Helm Matters
Eric Helm’s novels do more than entertain—they humanize the Vietnam War. Randle and Cornett, through their pseudonym, gave voice to soldiers’ experiences, capturing the bravery, frustration, and camaraderie of combat. Their work resonates with military fiction fans, offering a window into a divisive era. With 77 books and over 38,000 Goodreads ratings, their impact is undeniable. After Cornett’s passing in 2022, Randle continues their legacy, with recent releases like Bromhead’s War in 2025 proving Helm’s enduring appeal.
- Born: Kevin D. Randle (1949), Bob Cornett (1953–2022)
- Key Works: Vietnam Ground Zero, Scorpion Squad, Wings Over Nam
- Genre: Military Thriller
- Notable: Randle’s 1,100+ hours as a Vietnam helicopter pilot
Ready to experience the jungles of Vietnam through a master storyteller’s lens? Grab Vietnam: Ground Zero and dive into Eric Helm’s thrilling world of action, humor, and heart!