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Giant Killers, War Heroes and Special Forces Legends
What causes a soldier to make the split second to decision to jump on a grenade and sacrifice his life to save his men?
What drives a man to go from homeless to the recipient of the military’s highest commendation, The Medal of Honor?
How does a prisoner of war survive years of unspeakable torture and deprivation and yet never give up hope?
A vivid collection of stories spanning multiple wars and military branches chosen by military enthusiasts from around the world. These compelling accounts of heroism and sacrifice depict the raw and brutal realities of war, without a shred of sentimentality or false patriotism.
Included are some names you might already know, like Pappy, Mad-Dog, Bong, Benavidez, and Hathcock, along with others you should know, like Pitsenbarger and Poolaw.
Veteran police detective and best-selling author, David A. Yuzuk, brings you this gripping collection of spectacular battle stories and trial-by-fire lessons of honor and duty from WWII to Iraq, all in one action-packed volume.
“I always make sure to say that when I wear my Medal of Honor I wear it for everybody. There were so many brave servicemen and women that accomplished incredible acts of selflessness and gallantry that either didn’t get recognized, or didn’t have anyone to witness those acts and many of them didn’t make it home. I’m proud to be part of this book of gripping combat accounts that provide a small glimpse into the painfully raw high-speed realities of war.”
- Gary Wetzel
What drives a man to go from homeless to the recipient of the military’s highest commendation, The Medal of Honor?
How does a prisoner of war survive years of unspeakable torture and deprivation and yet never give up hope?
A vivid collection of stories spanning multiple wars and military branches chosen by military enthusiasts from around the world. These compelling accounts of heroism and sacrifice depict the raw and brutal realities of war, without a shred of sentimentality or false patriotism.
Included are some names you might already know, like Pappy, Mad-Dog, Bong, Benavidez, and Hathcock, along with others you should know, like Pitsenbarger and Poolaw.
Veteran police detective and best-selling author, David A. Yuzuk, brings you this gripping collection of spectacular battle stories and trial-by-fire lessons of honor and duty from WWII to Iraq, all in one action-packed volume.
“I always make sure to say that when I wear my Medal of Honor I wear it for everybody. There were so many brave servicemen and women that accomplished incredible acts of selflessness and gallantry that either didn’t get recognized, or didn’t have anyone to witness those acts and many of them didn’t make it home. I’m proud to be part of this book of gripping combat accounts that provide a small glimpse into the painfully raw high-speed realities of war.”
- Gary Wetzel
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2023
About the author
David A. Yuzuk
13 books16 followersBorn and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., David's journey has been anything but ordinary. After attending Stony Brook University on Long Island, he set his sights on Miami, where he spent 19 years serving with the Aventura Police Department. As a uniformed patrolman, undercover officer, and detective, he tackled some of the city’s most challenging cases. His dedication earned him two Officer of the Month awards from his department and a prestigious recognition from the Dade County Chief’s Association.
In 2017, David turned his investigative skills toward an even greater mystery—the incredible life of his friend, Green Beret Captain Richard J. Flaherty. His deep dive into Flaherty’s shadowy past led to the critically acclaimed documentary The Giant Killer, a gripping account of one of the most enigmatic figures in military history.
After five years of relentless research, David brought Flaherty’s story to life in the bestselling nonfiction book and audiobook The Giant Killer. He continued his exploration of military legends with the books, "Giant Killers, War Heroes, and Special Forces Legends" and "Women in War" further cementing his reputation as a master storyteller.
Still based in Miami, David travels the country, immersing himself in creative projects that bring extraordinary stories to light.
In 2017, David turned his investigative skills toward an even greater mystery—the incredible life of his friend, Green Beret Captain Richard J. Flaherty. His deep dive into Flaherty’s shadowy past led to the critically acclaimed documentary The Giant Killer, a gripping account of one of the most enigmatic figures in military history.
After five years of relentless research, David brought Flaherty’s story to life in the bestselling nonfiction book and audiobook The Giant Killer. He continued his exploration of military legends with the books, "Giant Killers, War Heroes, and Special Forces Legends" and "Women in War" further cementing his reputation as a master storyteller.
Still based in Miami, David travels the country, immersing himself in creative projects that bring extraordinary stories to light.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
September 13, 2023
Incredible Valor
Stories of heroism that defy logic and explanation.
What an incredible collection, told in a realistic way, of the "guts" of our brothers-in-arms.
Stories of heroism that defy logic and explanation.
What an incredible collection, told in a realistic way, of the "guts" of our brothers-in-arms.
October 13, 2024
Excellent
This book must be a mandatory read for all senior high students. It outlines what real courage is and what it means to be an American. Recommend it.
This book must be a mandatory read for all senior high students. It outlines what real courage is and what it means to be an American. Recommend it.
February 25, 2026
It feels a bit unmanly and unpatriotic to give a muted review about a good nonfiction book that tells story after story about the bravest and most decorated military men in the past 80 years, most of which are Medal of Honor winners. But this book just did not knock me over the head and drag me in. Sure, I liked reading about the fighting men. But what is missing is that feeling that you are getting a fair and balanced perspective of what these warriors went through. The book felt like propaganda at times rather than real life tales of the most awesomeness and manly of them all.
Also, the writing style is pretty simple, written, and I mean no disrespect, at a lower grade level. This is not a detailed examination of the heart of the hero. It is part hagiography and part 8th grade level literature. Yet, at the same time, it is a decent book and I liked the stories.
All in all, 3 stars. I wish it were better. But you don’t get 4-5 stars just by slapping a flag on the book. Earn it Giant Killers. Don’t take the easy way out and hide behind cool medals.
Also, the writing style is pretty simple, written, and I mean no disrespect, at a lower grade level. This is not a detailed examination of the heart of the hero. It is part hagiography and part 8th grade level literature. Yet, at the same time, it is a decent book and I liked the stories.
All in all, 3 stars. I wish it were better. But you don’t get 4-5 stars just by slapping a flag on the book. Earn it Giant Killers. Don’t take the easy way out and hide behind cool medals.
December 30, 2023
Giant Killers
We go about our lives and for the most part are oblivious to the valor and truly epic events that many have lived. Instead of made up super heroes who brave danger for the greater good,kids should be taught that they are among us daily. I read this book in amazement, often with tears in my eyes, and disbelief at the adversity these men fought . I stand in awe and respect of their courage, dedication, tenacity and selflessness. Would that I could count myself among them. True heroes !!
We go about our lives and for the most part are oblivious to the valor and truly epic events that many have lived. Instead of made up super heroes who brave danger for the greater good,kids should be taught that they are among us daily. I read this book in amazement, often with tears in my eyes, and disbelief at the adversity these men fought . I stand in awe and respect of their courage, dedication, tenacity and selflessness. Would that I could count myself among them. True heroes !!
December 25, 2023
Super read
What a superlative depiction of an incredible individual. What a heart this man had. God love him. I would love to read !ore.
What a superlative depiction of an incredible individual. What a heart this man had. God love him. I would love to read !ore.
January 17, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. These men, are Real heroes. IMO. Each one of them.
May 9, 2024
Great stories about incredible people. Not bad for a cop! Sincerely, a hose dragger. Stay safe out there!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews