American Heroes in Special Operations [Hardcover]

Oliver North (Author), Chuck Holton (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 2010

Following the success of American Heroes: In the Fight Against Radical Islam (a New York Times best seller), Oliver North moves from the frontline to the world of shadow warriors, introducing readers to the brave, noble work of Navy Seals, Rangers, and Green Berets in American Heroes in Special Operations.

From the sands of Iraq to the mountains of the Hindu Kush, North relays insider stories and full-color photographs that depict soul-stirring missions, hidden victories, and desperate fights against impossible odds. Yet for these faithful, inspiring patriots, it's "all in a day's work."

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Oliver North is a combat-decorated Marine, the recipient of the Silver Star, the Bronze Star for valor, and two Purple Hearts for wounds in action. From 1983 to 1986 he served as the U.S. government's counter-terrorism coordinator on the National Security Council staff. President Ronald Reagan described him as "an American hero." A New York Times best-selling author, syndicated columnist, and host of the award-winning War Stories documentary series on the FOX News Channel, North lives with his wife, Betsy, in Virginia. They have four children and eleven grandchildren.

Chuck Holton is a best-selling author, international reporter, photographer, video producer, and public speaker. He lives with his wife and five children in West Virginia.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: Fidelis; First Edition/First Printing edition (November 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0805447121
• ISBN-13: 978-0805447125
• Product Dimensions: 7.1 x 1 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (58 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #231,437 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

65 of 66 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars I had to frequently remind myself that this is not fiction or fantasy, but real stories about real people. November 13, 2010

By mybookchatter

Format:Hardcover

I chose this book to read because of the author, Oliver North. I was very curious to read what he had written. It is actually a part of a series that he has produced. Had I fully known the subject matter of the book, prior to my selection, I wouldn't have chosen it. (I shy away from war stories, due to the violence.) That would have been tragic for me. My timing (Veteran's Day) was a coincidence, but made it all the more relevant.

"American Heroes in Special Operations" is a compilation of short stories , reporting true Special Operations Force's events that have taken place since the launch of the War on Terror. The stories are reported with as much fact and detail as is allowed by law. The book includes: amazing photos, to help support the stories written about events in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq; detailed definitions for novices (like me); and most importantly, recounts the honors awarded to the participants in these events.

Once I started reading this book, I could not put it down. It is written in such a manner so as not to titillate the reader by the horrorifics of battle, but to recount the stories in as much detail as possible, so the reader gets a very good sense of what the participants endured. The words flow smoothly so it is easy to become engaged in the stories and with the participants. I was cheering for the good guys, boo/hissing the bad guys, and weeping for those who were lost. The stories seem so fantastic that I had to frequently remind myself that this is not fiction or fantasy, but real stories about real people.

I've found this book of true stories to be important to me, because it has helped me become more of a participant in the War on Terror, if only through new knowledge.... I feel very strongly that this book belongs in every home in America. If there were ever a reason to get everyone moving in one direction at one time, it should be to collectively read this book so as to more fully appreciate what it actually means to go to war. This series should be mandatory reading for every government official. Read more ›

24 of 26 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A Must Read for every american November 4, 2010

By Scott Witner

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

This book is one of the most eye opening and realistic accounts of the bravery of our men fighting the war on terrorism. These are the guys you will never hear about or read about in the newspapers or see on TV, but may have the greatest influence on the war itself. If you are an American regardless if you support the war or not; you need to read this so that you will gain a better understanding of whats REALLY going on and the sacrifices the men and women in uniform are making so that we can have our everyday freedoms. A big thank you to both Chuck Holton and Oliver North for exposing the truth about what our "Men in Black" are doing and the impact they are having on the war.

22 of 26 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Eye-opener November 3, 2010

By VeronicaK

Format:Hardcover

American Heroes: Special Operations gives an in-depth look into the hearts, minds, and operations of our elite heroes. It's easy as a observer to idolize these heroes who sacrifice everything, but this book gave me a deeper perspective and appreciation of those sacrifices. With North and Holton embedded with these elite warriors, readers are able to see the intricacies and frustrations these men face on a daily basis. What we see on the news is often slanted and a mere sliver of the truth, and that's why I love this American Heroes series because, in essence, it humanizes these warriors--it peels away the armor, the weapons, the deadly missions--and allows me to "see" a man behind all that gear and action. A man with a family, a dream. It's an absolutely fascinating, informative, realistic, and engaging read!

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Special information December 13, 2010

By A. Braswell

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

This is not my usual read, but I saw Oliver North on a television program and decided that I should read it since I know nothing about the special ops forces. I found much information that I wouldn't have gained anywhere else, I suppose, and I am glad that I read it. It's a book that one could read a page or two at a time. It's good to know that there are still "stout-hearted men".

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars the real deal December 26, 2010

By Linda J. Tipler

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

I haven't read this yet but saw plenty of reviews from the author on an interview, including video clips of his experiences in war. A very American,Patriotic, truthful, respectful account of our soldiers. Pro-freedom from tyranny of Government, pro-faith in God, humanity and country. Faith, truth,charity and honor.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars special ops great book December 15, 2010

By GULFDADDY

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

This is my first Oliver North book and was not what I expected....but was different and better. Better in that it was a series of brief accounts with many photos and bios associated to the events. What great brave people these special ops guys are. I sleep better knowing they are at our service. gulfdaddy

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars AMERICAN HEROES IN SPECIAL FORCES November 15, 2010

By Daniel Herring

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

VERY GOOD BOOK. ALTHOUGH MOST OF THE GUYS FEATURED IN THE BOOK PASSED ITS NICE TO HEAR ABOUT THE THINGS THEY DID TO SAVE EACH OTHER. THE WORLD WOULD BE A MUCH BETTER PLACE WITH PEOPLE LIKE THAT.

4 of 5 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Grateful and Proud November 10, 2010

By DLR

Format:Hardcover

On the eve of Veteran's Day, I just finished American Heroes in Special Operations....it took me a day and a half to read it. I could not put it down. This book takes you on a journey inside the life and struggles of America's best and brightest. I was humbled by the courage and sacrifice of these brave young warriors. Regardless of your politics, if you read this brief summary of American Military history and don't come away with an awe and sense of gratitude and pride, you don't have a heart. Thank you Oliver North and Chuck Holton for shining a light on America's best. Thanks to all veterans past and present for your service. This is a must read.