After high school he attended Hoftra University for three years before joining the army. DeMille completed Officer Candidate School and served as a First Lieutenant from 1966 to 1969, seeing action as an infantry platoon leader with the First Cavalry Division in Vietnam (in Quang Tri Provence, from November '67 to December '68). A decorated soldier, he was honored with the Air Medal, Bronze Star, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. The Vietnam War is another recurring theme that runs through DeMille's work.
Nelson DeMille Quote
"I suppose to some extent my male heroes are like me - funny, sexy, smart, brave, good looking and humble."
"I use the cliff hanger technique. I try to end every chapter with an air of suspense. I try to leave the reader wanting to turn the page. I try to use short sentences, short paragraphs and short chapters to keep the reader's interest."
Novels by Nelson DeMille: By The Rivers of Babylon, Wild Fire, Night Fall, Plum Island, The Talbot Odyssey, Cathedral, The Lion's Game, The Gold Coast, Mayday, Up Country, By the Rivers of Babylon, Word of Honor, Spencerville, The Charm School and The General's Daughter.