The Phantom Major: The Story of David Stirling and the SAS Regiment

This is the 2nd time I've read this book, and it was as exciting as the first. Perhaps more so because the first time was in 2004. I chose to read this book for research on my second book, a World War II story about behind-the-lines activity in North Africa.This book is not only insightful about the War, but entertaining on how a small detachment grew in what today is the S.A.S. (Special Air Service). It's very interesting how despite the success of this small military unit during the early days of the War in the Desert, military leaders were slow to recognize its importance. David Stirling seemed the unlikely man to create such a force. He was not the dashing handsome hero, but rather an ordinary, even quiet-looking person whom one would hardly take notice. However, Stirling proved looks can be deceiving, for he was an extremely confident, competitive, determined and capable leader.Stirling recognized the Afrika Korps' weaknesses and penetrated enemy lines with American jeeps outfitted with Vickers and Lewis machine guns. They raided enemy aerodromes, destroyed over 250 enemy planes (more than any single squadron of the R.A.F.), fuel depots, machine shops, trucks, you name it, they hit it. At one point Stirling was considered to be awarded the highest award for valor by the Royal Air Force (R.A.F.), but jealous officers nixed the idea.This book takes you through how Stirling came up with the idea for L Detachment, the obstacles he faced within the British Army, his recruitment of officers and men, acquiring supplies and training, and actual engagements with the enemy. Their exploits are described in detail, and it is truly amazing how close they came to capture in the middle of the desert. The author writes in clarity the depravations they faced with low rations, water, fuel and ammunition. The Special Air Service was such a threat to Rommel's Afrika Korps that a specially-trained unit was formed in Germany and flown to North Africa to deal with them. If you love military fiction, or history, you will love this book because it combines them both. I found it highly entertaining and am glad to have this in my personal collection.David Lucero, author

Amazing how much damage a small group of badassess can do.

This book is an easy and most educational read. It is a MUST read for all students of the Brit's involvement in WW II.

I bought this book b/c I am a history nut, and also my son-in-law is one, too. So we are really enjoying this book.

One of the best of all time. Too bad amazon has no other choice but VHS.The heroine stands up to bullying of any kind in the most charming and brave way you'll ever see. The director did the same. She almost pays with her life. He did - died in suspicious circumstances after his lovely-ridicule of organized crime.

Thorough coverage of a fascinating idea that is probably the origin of the US Special Forces, Seals, and other small behind the line operational units.

Great historical telling of the Phantom Major’s history during WWII

Well written

This book illustrates the old adage that truth is stranger than fiction. The inescapable truth is that a few good men, given the opportunity to think for themselves whilst, at the same time, working cohesively with others of the same mind, can achieve great ends. The book is very well written, being readable and believable, yet astounding in its understated narrative, is almost incapable of being put down! The term “men” used in my review is not gender bias. The book is solely about men and so no women are referenced.

My Dad was in Stirling’s force but did not speak much of that time. I now have a much greater understanding of what he went through and how courageous he was. This book is a must read for anyone who’s interested in the SAS. It’s a very easy and informative read.

Who dares wins!!!What an amazing generation they were, brave beyond belief.A regiment that other countries can only dream aboutReal heroes

I have the original which contains photographs.This edition does not.Very disappointed

The history of modern warfare with the inception of UK Special Forces, from an idea grew a concept of operations that today knows no bounds.