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Average Customer Rating:

A good read but picky

Customer Rating:

I can only echo the good reviews of this book and demonstrates yet again the heroism and professionalism of our armed forces.I've read "apache","3 para" and "into the killing zone" recently and never fail to be awe struck by the people in our armed services.The book itself covers 3 Commando Brigades tour of Helmand in great detail and is well written capturing very well the heat and danger of battle, aswell as the difficult conditions our forces have to work in. However, there are several comments in the book that seem to have a bit of "a pop" at the Paras. The inside cover accuses them of "a tactical retreat". The book does not really go on to say why this is the case. There is the odd inference but no real criticism from the actual Marines themselves often saying the Paras went in under resourced and it's Commanders had no freedom to move or plan. If you read "3 para" or Sean Rayments book the decision that the Paras were tied into guarding the District Centres in Helmand was a political, one made by the Governor of Helmand and huge pressure being placed on the British forces at the time to comply. Given the large number of honours won by 3 Para in their tour and the casualties they took I find some of the authors comments a bit ungracious to say the least. I know there is a big rivalry between both units, but as a nation we should be proud of them both.I am not denying the author his right to crticise another unit but surely he should make greater effort to qualify them. A shame, as it for me, it takes the edge of a very good book.

3 Commando Brigade	Customer Rating:
If you want the real story of some pretty formidable heroics then this is the book to read about the Marines' tour in Helmand. It gives the true strength of character required and what the troops are having to go through during their tour of duty. A gripping read.

Herrick 5

Customer Rating:

This is a well written account of 3 Commando Brigade's tour of duty in Helmand; one that we've already seen on Chris Terril's COMMANDO. The author (an old Falklands hand) balances some ripping tales of valour with an account of what the Brigade was trying to do on a more operational and strategic level. You see how the individual actions fitted in to the overall picture. At a chapter a month you see the operation unfold with lots of planning and lots of action. Kit-heads will find lots to enjoy as will those who wonder how the blazes you fight an enemy like the Taliban; very professionally, seems to be the answer.

The Marines at their best...READ IT!!!!!!!

Customer Rating:

It is always annoying when reading' that a mistake appears, something a proof reading should have picked up and yet is missed.Page 57, "on 8 October 2008 3 commando Brigade's brigadier, Jerry Thomas, formally took over from 16 air assault Brigade's brigadier, Ed Butler." If this was so then it has not happened yet!!!! Having said that it takes nothing from the account of the marines in Afghanistan. I also like the fact that the Royal Engineers are mentioned often for the work that they have carried out.These boys are usually the unsung heroes in any conflict and at last they have been given recognition in this book. It is written factually and contains many verbal anecdotes from the troops themselves. Along with the all important detail of action by troops and enemy alike, with good annalysis of equipment used, it aligns all parameters with intricate ability to bring all the supporting groups into the equation whilst still giving a first hand account of individual heroism in the field of battle. I like the style of Ewen Southby-Tailyour and indeed found the opening prologue, detailing the Jugroom fort mission to rescue the body of Mathew Ford,an awesome account that puts this book on everyones must read list.

A smashing read	Customer Rating:
An absolutely smashing read - a true history but written in an 'approachable' manner as much for the lay person as the keen military historian. The photographs enhance the text perfectly. Clearly written by a professional, military historian with no personal agenda and huge combat experience. Cannot recommend it highly enough.