Lieutenant

From the back cover of the Ace first edition: "When Lon Nolan was cheated of his opportunity to serve in the military of planet Earth, he thought his life was ruined. But he got a second chance in Dirigent Mercenary Corps - a second chance to learn the art and craft of war. Having survived the blood rite of first combat, he's now Lieutenant Lon Nolan. He's got the rank - and he's about to learn about the responsibilities that go with it. For to win in battle, sometimes it's necessary to give the devil his due - no matter what the cost."