The Daring Dozen: 12 Special Forces Legends of World War II

by Gavin Mortimer

In this new book by journalist Gavin Mortimer, The Daring Dozen reveals the 12 legendary special forces commanders of World War II. Prior to World War II the concept of 'special forces' simply didn't exist. But thanks to visionary leaders like David Stirling and Charles Hunter, our very concept of how wars can be fought and won have totally changed. But these 12 extraordinary men not only reshaped military policy, they led from the front, accompanying their troops into the heat of battle, from the sands of North Africa to jumping on D-Day and infiltrating behind enemy lines. Each embodies the true essence of courage, what Winston Churchill remarked 'is esteemed [as] the first of human qualities.' But Mortimer also offers a skilful analysis of their qualities as a military commander and the true impact their own personal actions, as well as those of their units, had on the eventual outcome of the war.

Genres: World War II, Nonfiction

304 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

For a detailed biography, to learn more about all the books I have written and to discover my forthcoming projects, please visit my website at the above link.

Reviews

[JD · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is on a very interesting subject, but is a big miss for me. Each individuals story lacks a lot of background and operational detail, and the 20-30 pages covering each of these brilliant soldiers just isn't enough.

[JustEvan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book with fun, short sketches of some of the great special forces soldiers of WWII. My only quibble is the lack of mention of Popski's Private Army in the chapters about the North African campaign.

[Tibor Konig · Rating 3 out of 5]

Érdekes történetek a gerillahadviselés második világháborús alakjairól, unalmasan elmesélve.

[Alan Carlson · Rating 3 out of 5]

OK thumbnail sketches of special forces drawn from both sides and several countries during WW2.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting, in-depth look at the development of Special Forces warfare. This book details the development not only those elite units such as the SAS,the Rangers, and the Fallschirmjäger, but also the exploits of 12 of the most famous/notorious SF warriors of all time.