Category: War Publisher: Greenleaf Book Group
ISBN-10: 1608320405
Pages: 400
Copyright: Aug 1, 2010
ISBN-13: 9781608320400
The surprise, speed, and violence of the forebears of U.S. Army Rangers, U.S. Navy SEALs, and SAS Commandos prove that 'those who dare, win.'
By May 1940, panzer divisions had decimated Belgium, sliced through France, and reached Calais. Lieutenant John Randal, a veteran of the U.S. 26th Cavalry Regiment, volunteers to help slow their advance. What unfolds is a blend of military guerrilla tactics, suspense, humor, and brotherly camaraderie—plus a little romance between the American GI and the widowed Lady Jane Seaborn.
Along the way readers meet such colorful characters as the movie star Captain David Niven in MO-9 and Captain “Geronimo Joe” McKoy with his Traveling Wild West Show and Shooting Emporium. The author—a decorated Ranger—covers the details of war extensively, from the five points of contact of a parachute landing fall to descriptions of a British raider’s A-5 flinging Jerries like rag dolls before the first shell casing even hits the floor.
As the novel ends, Major Randal’s men, fresh from Operation Tomcat—the first British parachute raid in France—learn they’ll deploy via sea transport within forty-eight hours on their next mission. The second book, which has already been written, tells that tale.
Professional Reviews
Dan Savage, retired publisher, Waco Tribune-Herald
I have read many war books, but none like this. It will grab you on page one and not turn you loose until the final page. I understand Phil Ward’s second book is in the hopper, and I can’t wait until it comes out. If you are looking for a military thriller based on actual events, Those Who Dare is a great read.
Colonel John Gargus, USAF (Ret.)
With sound intelligence on assigned targeted area, a small force trains repetitiously in utmost secrecy to deliver a surprise blow to a much larger and better-armed enemy. This World War II story contains a model blueprint for successful joint service special operations raids by modern-day military forces. It describes a small, well-recruited, volunteer ground force led by a proven commander whose clearly defined mission is supported by elements of naval and air forces.
Ken Williams
Mr. Ward, I recently finished your book and loved every page. I have never learned so much about commando and jump training or the thought in application for the early war years. The Calais screening led by Lt. Randal was riveting. I have encouraged my wife to include your book on the recommended reading list for her ‘Families of WWII Veterans’ non profit organization.
