FROM GOODREADS: In the summer of 1941, at the height of the war in the Western Desert, a bored and eccentric young officer, David Stirling, came up with a plan that was radical and entirely against the rules: a small undercover unit that would inflict mayhem behind enemy lines.
Despite intense opposition, Winston Churchill personally gave Stirling permission to recruit the toughest, brightest and most ruthless soldiers he could find. So began the most celebrated and mysterious military organisation in the world: the SAS.
Now, 75 years later, the SAS has finally decided to tell its astonishing story. It has opened its secret archives for the first time, granting historian Ben Macintyre full access to a treasure trove of unseen reports, memos, diaries, letters, maps and photographs, as well as free rein to interview surviving Originals and those who knew them.
The result is an exhilarating tale of fearlessness and heroism, recklessness and tragedy; of extraordinary men who were willing to take monumental risks. It is a story about the meaning of courage.
Rogue Heroes – Special Air Service (SAS), Sabotage and World War II
“Rogue Heroes: The History of the SAS, Britain’s Secret Special Forces Unit That Sabotaged the Nazis and Changed the Nature of War” by Ben Macintyre provides a detailed look into the Special Air Service (SAS), a covert military group that played a crucial role in World War II. Macintyre explores the SAS’s origins, missions, and impact, shedding light on its secret operations and the individuals who shaped its history.
The book takes us back to the early days of the SAS, revealing how it was formed and the unconventional strategies used against the Nazis. Macintyre emphasizes the daring nature of SAS missions and their significant contributions to the Allied cause.
Through thorough research, the author introduces key figures within the SAS, offering a human perspective on the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs of these elite soldiers. The narrative vividly captures their courage and resourcefulness as they carried out sabotage, reconnaissance, and guerrilla warfare behind enemy lines.
“Rogue Heroes” also examines the post-war legacy of the SAS and its lasting influence on military tactics. Macintyre illustrates the unit’s evolution, showing how its impact extended beyond the war, shaping modern special forces and transforming the nature of warfare.
Throughout the book, Macintyre employs a compelling storytelling style, making historical events accessible to a broad audience. By focusing on the human aspects of SAS history, he brings depth to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the individuals who risked their lives for the greater good.
In conclusion, “Rogue Heroes” is an engaging portrayal of the SAS, blending military history, personal stories, and strategic insights seamlessly. Ben Macintyre’s narrative skill makes this book an enthralling read for those interested in World War II, military history, and the covert operations that had a lasting impact on history.
Rogue Heroes TV Series
A six (6) episode TV series, entitled Rogue Heroes, is also available. It is about how the SAS was founded. More or less, it tells the same story as the book although some of the characters were shown differently.
AMAZON PRIME DESCRIPTION:
Frustrated with military command and their handling of the war in North Africa, David Stirling and Jock Lewes formulate a plan to parachute men into the desert to attack enemy forces from behind the front line.
My Goodreads Review
Rogue Heroes: The History of the SAS, Britain’s Secret Special Forces Unit That Sabotaged the Nazis and Changed the Nature of War by Ben Macintyre
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The book is a riveting exploration of the SAS, Britain’s secret special forces unit during World War II. The book captures the audacious and daring nature of the SAS missions. It showcases their pivotal role in sabotaging the Nazis and reshaping the very essence of warfare. The author delves into the origins of the SAS. He provides a compelling historical context for its formation and evolution. Key figures enrich the narrative with their personal stories. The book offers readers a profound connection to the sacrifices and triumphs of these elite soldiers. Through research and a captivating storytelling style, the author brings to light the hidden chapters of the SAS’s history. It makes the book an engaging and enlightening read for anyone fascinated by military history and covert operations.
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