Customer Reviews

BLACK CHINOOK: An Army Ranger's Story

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This is a well written straight forward account of the different phases of training of an Army Ranger. Mr. Combs tells of his personal experiences while in training throughout all the phases. Without breeching protocol or security he gives detailed descriptions of some of the harrowing missions he was on. From missions in Laos, the Panama Canal and Korea you will get a true picture of what it takes to be an Army Ranger.

Mr. Combs tells of his dream of becoming an Army Ranger since he was in college and saw a training documentary on them. He barely made it in because there are only a certain amount of spots available per year. He had told them at the enlistment office that it "was the Rangers or nothing." He was accepted and went off to the toughest training the Army can provide.

`Black Chinook' is the name that the Rangers give to death whether while in training (which does happen) or in the line of duty. When a Ranger falls they say the Black Chinook came to take him away. This is a possibility that exists every day of their lives from the moment they start their training. There is a special intensity both physically and mentally that each man who becomes a Ranger must have. Throughout Combs story you will see glimpses of this intensity in himself and the others he served with throughout his tour of duty.

I found this an interesting read if not a bit dry. Black Chinook is very matter-of-fact and probably would appeal greatly to others that have been in the service or those curious about what it's like to be in the special forces. I think it would be a must read for any considering going into the Army Ranger's so that they would know exactly what it was like.

Major (Ret) David Combs has chronicled his military life in an extraordinary book called "Black Chinook: An Army Ranger's Story". He takes the reader through basic, AIT, Jump School, various Ranger Training Classes and OCS in great detail. The hardships both physical and mental become evident to the reader as he shares what it was like going through everything to become not only an Airborne Ranger but also an officer.

The author shares his part in The Panama Invasion, which although was brief, still had much potentially dangerous possibilities. He also tells us about Ranger operations in Haiti and other locations. But there is a moving chapter in the book about going to Normandy and being with the original Rangers who fought on those D-day beaches. The book is full of details about ranger training and the creeds that they follow. It should be required reading for anyone one thinking of this as a military career path or who have an interest in ranger history or who have a family member in the Rangers. This book will give you a better understanding of what they have gone through.

I found myself admiring these men and the sacrifices they make for their country and their fellow ranger team members. Of course, the personal price he pays is a divorce. It is not an easy career path to follow. Combs does not let you learn much about his inner life but shares much about what he has be able to accomplish in the Army. One gets the feeling that there is much emotional energy left undiscovered in this story. So we do not really get to fully know the author accept as a military man doing his job. We do know this much--David Combs is one tough Ranger and a patriot.

I personally recommend this book for your personal military library. It is an informative and entertaining read.

A very honest, exciting glimpse into the world of a US Army Ranger from basic training to real life missions. Brings headlines to life from Panama and Haiti to Germany and Korea. It gives a real appreciation for the sacrifices and dedication of our servicemen.

After spending twenty years in the Army myself in the combat arms, I have the pleasure of working with Dave in Baghdad, Iraq. I can testify that in addition to having written two FANTASTIC books, that are entertaining and riveting, they have the advantage of having been written by a guy who is the REAL DEAL. If you have an interest in military history, the Rangers, POW/MIAs, or just looking for a crackerjack story, buy these books!

Mr. David Combs shares his experience from visiting the recruiter, training at camps, earning Ranger, preparing and executing missions, and training others to do the same. All the episodes give an honest account without military jargon or exagerations. After reading this book I have gained a fuller understanding of the Army Rangers and respect their way of life. This is a great book for fellow veterans or anyone curious about the Rangers. David Combs continues to "lead the way" with this book.