More shameless plugging this month - but it is in a good cause! It is also extremely topical, indeed as I sit on my sofa writing this review the author is being interviewed on BBC South East news. That author is Col. Stuart Tootal, former commander of 3 Para, who led them at the time of their mission to go back into Afghanistan’s Helmand province in 2006. So, if anyone is thinking that their job is tough at the moment…..think on. After this command he became increasingly frustrated at the lack of proper equipment for troops there and resigned from the Army and has concentrated on campaigning on this front ever since.
The plugging bit is that we are delighted to have secured a visit from Col. Tootal to talk about his book (Danger Close- John Murray £18.99) and answer some questions and of course sign copies as well. He is with us on the afternoon of Monday 7Th September from 1.30-3.30 in the Mayfield Scout Headquarters.
Danger Close is fascinating for a host of reasons; it is unusual to find a book written by such a senior officer so close to such an infamously tough conflict; even more so for it to be still so much in the public focus; but more than that it is the campaigning edge, born out of anger and frustration for our troops to be properly equipped, that comes across.
The writing style is simple and direct as befits its subject, but this gives it clarity and effectiveness. You are taken there, to the heat and dust, the smell of aviation fuel and the searing whine of helicopter engines. You are a witness to the bravery and loyalty of his men, the closeness and sense of family. However, the problems creep in, the lack of the necessary kit and its impact, the sense of betrayal by politicians grows. Members of that close family are injured or lose their lives. I found myself getting more involved but more angry as it went on.
The most telling part for me was the appendix containing the list of decorations awarded to members of 3 Para between April and October 2006 - four pages from posthumous VC down. It brings it home to us all.
Danger Close is an interesting book for anyone keen on military history or current affairs. However, much more than that; for all of us, it is an important book.
