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Navy SEALs: Their Untold Story

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“[The] definitive history of the U.S. Navy SEALs and their forefathers” (Master Chief Bill Bruhmuller (USN, Ret.), founding member of SEAL Team two).Written with the unprecedented cooperation of the Naval Special Warfare community, this vivid and definitive history of the U.S. Navy SEALs reveals the inside story behind the greatest combat operations of America’s most celebrated warriors. New York Times–bestselling authors Dick Couch—a former SEAL—and William Doyle chart the SEALs’ story, from their origins in the daring Naval Combat Demolition Teams, Underwater Demolition Teams, Scouts and Raiders commando units, and OSS Operational Swimmers of World War II to their coming of age in Vietnam and rise to glory in Iraq and Afghanistan after 9/11.Illustrated with forty pages of photographs and based on exclusive interviews with more than 100 U.S. frogmen (including multiple Medal of Honor recipients), here is “the first comprehensive history of the special operations force” (Military.com).

357 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 11, 2014

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About the author

Dick Couch

34 books159 followers
Mr. Couch graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1967. He graduated from BUD/S training in Class 45 in 1969. He was a case officer for the CIA.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Gerald.
277 reviews11 followers
February 13, 2015
Absolutely FANTASTIC! NAVY SEALS - Their Untold Story traces the rich history of the SEALs from their predecessor days as WWII Frogmen and Underwater Demolition Teams doing beach recon and blowing up the German obstacles preparatory to the D-Day landings through the roles they were assigned in the Korean War. These led to the "birth papers" issued for them in the same speech President Kennedy charged us with landing on the moon by the end of the 1960's. The SEALs matured with all the operations in which they were a part in Vietnam to become the truly ELITE warriors that they have become in Iraq and Afghanistan after having learned some hard lessons in operations in Grenada and Panama. Undoubtedly, they are best known for their essentially flawless accomplishments in the rescue of Captain Phillips from Somali pirates and the killing of Osama bin Laden.

I thoroughly enjoyed this superb telling of the history of this group of warriors who are without any doubt the elite of the elite of ANY military group from ANY country in the history of the world. Having personally spent 28 years of my life in the Navy, I am exceedingly proud to call the SEALs my brothers if only by the narrowest thread of association. I very highly recommend this book to all mature, interested readers

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POSTSCRIPT: I spent my active duty military service with the U.S. Navy. My ship - U.S.S. Vernon County (LST-1161) - was deployed frequently during my time on board from June 1968 to January 1971, to that area of South Vietnam south of Saigon, initially as a part of the Mobile Riverine Force on the Mekong River and later just around the western side of the extreme southern tip at the Ca Mau Peninsula. While reading NAVY SEALS - Their Untold Story, I learned of a number of SEALs assignments which we were supporting, although I did not know that at the time. The following quote from the book gives some insight into this: “SEALs were soon operating from riverine bases around the lower Mekong Delta. From 1966 through 1971, platoons from SEAL Teams One and Two conducted direct-action operations against the Viet Cong.” An interesting side quote from the same page as the previous quote is: “SEALs also wore pantyhose, to keep the leeches off of you when you’re going through the canals.”

The incredibly brave Seawolf helicopter pilots were a significant part of the success of the SEALs missions in the Mekong Delta region. They would fly into some pretty rough combat areas to extract the SEALs when needed. They were always there whenever needed and without any hesitancy. The main responsibilities U.S.S. Vernon County had when deployed in this area was to provide helicopter and small riverine craft support, i.e., bullets and food. The Seawolf helos would land on our deck when we were at anchor in the Mekong River to get those supplies for their SEALs. I am proud to know that I played a small role, peripheral though it may have been, in helping the SEALs accomplish some of their missions.

Another quote from the book gives some insight into the relationship between the SEALs and their supporting helos and between the helos and the LSTs (i.e., my ship and her sister ships): “The Seawolf pilots were superb. ‘I don’t know a single SEAL who operated in Vietnam and wasn’t saved by those guys at least once,’ wrote veteran Vietnam-era SEAL leader Robert Gormly. ‘They were the best helo crews I’d ever seen. Land-based throughout the Delta and aboard LSTs (amphibious support vessels anchored at the mouths of rivers), they’d fly anywhere, any time, to support us.” {Actually, the LSTs were anchored VERY CONSIDERABLY up the river from the mouth. In fact my almost 400’ ship made a transit from one site to another on the river almost to the Cambodian border, a VERY LONG, LONG way from the mouth of the river.}

My final Postscript comment relates to the only Navy-controlled area of operations in Vietnam, i.e., Sea Float/Solid Anchor. It was a SEAL/UDT base anchored in Cua Lon River, 1969. The floating base (later moved ashore and called Solid Anchor) was a focal point for SEAL/UDT operations in Vietnam. A contributor SEAL described it as follows: “Solid Anchor was located in the southern portion of An Xuien Province. If Florida were Vietnam, it was the area at the southern tip, just below and west of Miami. Most of the territory was controlled by local-force Viet Cong guerrillas with an occasional company-sized North Vietnamese Army (NVA) unit moving through the area. A SEAL command history from that time described the environment like this: ‘exposure to almost impenetrable mangrove swamps, mud, tidal flats, prolonged immersions in water, and infestations of crocodiles, snakes, and other tropical animals, insects, and diseases, in conjunction with enemy booby-traps, punji stakes, and direct contact, have become a matter of routine on patrols, ambushes, and listening post operations.’ It was miserable, but it was equally miserable for our enemy.” The reason for including this quote as part of my postscript is as a basis for commenting that on several deployments my ship was assigned to the area around Square Bay, where the Cua Lon River flows into the Gulf of Thailand. We were at anchor about a mile or so off the coast. One time I was the boat officer assigned to make a re-supply run from our ship to Sea Float, several miles up the Cua Lon River from the coast. It was quite a “hairy” experience.

[Book 4 of 2015 Target 50 (Jan-3; Feb-1)]

Profile Image for Keith.
40 reviews
December 6, 2014
If you are looking for the "untold story", as promised by the title - keep looking. There is very little in this history of the Navy Seals that hasn't been written elsewhere. Much of what the authors choose to write about has been covered in much more detail, and with much more engagement of interest, in other books and articles.

Part of this is the nature of the book. Dick Couch is a prolific author of military books, and is a former SEAL himself. But because of that, he is extremely careful to write only authorized material. This book not only went through the normal vetting process that former SEALS and others must submit to when writing of their experiences - the Navy gave particular blessing to this work, and gave a lot of access to Couch and his co-author William Doyle that other authors can't get. That access came with strings - big strings.

UnSEALed is a hagiographic work - you won't find much, if any, criticism of SEAL operations or operators. The closest we get to that is when a few SEALS make critical remarks about how the teams were used in conflicts past. For example, several operators from the Vietnam era are quoted as believing that if the entire military had taken a more SEAL-like approach, the Vietnam War could have been won by the US. Whether you buy into that rather dubious idea or not, it isn't really a criticism of SEAL operations or tactics. You won't find anything like real criticism in this book - all SEALS are heros, and any mistakes made are left unaddressed, or at most attributed to rear echelon brass.

In their zeal to never write about what the government doesn't want them to write about, they leave a lot of known material out. They reference the fact that US POWs in Hanoi were in direct communication with the US military/government during their imprisonment - but say that the method used is still "classified", over 40 years later. These methods have been written about extensively in other works - but you wouldn't know these methods are available publically by reading this book.

The beginning of the book is also rather boring. In an effort to give a more full history of where the SEAL teams came from, the authors go back to WWII and the Naval Combat Demolition Teams, and the later UDT teams. While these men were extremely brave and worthy of writing about, the authors have little source material to work from. Most of the NCDT members are dead, and operational after-action reports were not the norm at that time. It takes quite a while into the book before things get interesting.

I would love to see an outside author tackle this subject at length - without the hagiography, without the overly-adhered to restrictions of "national security".
5 reviews
March 8, 2017
(SPOILER WARNING)the Navy Underwater Demolitions Teams, Couch and Doyle present personal experiences of individual SEAL unit veterans, often through interviews with the authors. The authors also highlight historical aspects of SEAL operations and training that continue to be important today, such as explaining the origin of the relationship between SEALS and the CIA. Though serious students of special operations warfare will find little new material here, it is an entertaining and informative to read about the marines training .
Profile Image for Devyn.
636 reviews
February 28, 2023
I have been trying to read this book for the last six years.

I'm one hundred and eighty-one pages in and I'm finally ready to admit that it isn't going to get better.

It needs to be said; Navy SEALs: Their Untold Story is not a quick, informative history of the Seals with a dash of excitement, it's really just 336 pages of regurgitated, condensed, over simplified, adulatory propaganda for the Navy.

As a war history buff, I'd recommend skipping this one.
Profile Image for Mike Hohrath.
182 reviews36 followers
February 9, 2018
"In times of war or uncertainty there is a special breed of warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man with uncommon desire to succeed.

Forged by adversity, he stands alongside America’s finest special operations forces to serve his country, the American people, and protect their way of life...

I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight."

Excerpts from the SEAL Code.

This book covers the operational and cultural history of the Navy SEALs from the inception of the Under Water Demolition Teams that took part in D-Day through their operations in the Middle East in the mid 2010's. It discusses in detail their evolution from a beach demolition force to the fierce all-purpose super soldiers they are today.

In addition, it covers their basic equipment, tactics, and vehicles. Well as much that can be publicly released, as the CIA and DoD went through the book prior to publication.

My favorite parts of the books were the descriptions of personal bravery and combat prowess exhibited by the SEAL Teams including the stories of many Silver Star and Medal of Honor winners. The other parts I liked were the interviews done of many Navy Seals(over 100) and how the author tied their quotes in and told much of the story in their voices.

I am glad that the SEALs are on our side, they are professional and courteous hunter killers dedicated to protecting the American way of life with a legendary reputation that is well deserved.
Profile Image for William Schram.
2,379 reviews99 followers
November 6, 2021
I am not a military man, but I admire the people willing to sacrifice their lives for a cause or their country. The United States has five military branches; Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, and Marines. They added one called the Space Force for a total of six. The one I would be most worried about entering would be the Navy. I cannot swim to save my life. I assume they would train me up for that, but still, I don't swim well. Soon I won't have to worry about that, though, since I am aging to the point where they won't allow me to enlist.

Among the military branches, there is a special operations team in each, I think. I might be wrong in this case. I know the Army has the Green Berets, but I don't know about any others besides the Seals.

Dick Couch is a former Navy Seal. Along with William Doyle, they both go and recount the past experiences of the Navy Seals and how they became what they are today. The book is a companion to a PBS series, I think.

Much of the information on the Seals is still classified data, but they made do with what they had. The book is fine, but I couldn't get into it. I tried to get out of my comfort zone a bit with something I don't usually read. Thanks for reading my review, and see you next time.
Profile Image for &#x1f913;&#x1f336;️.
82 reviews5 followers
June 11, 2018
One has to be enticed by the nature of such literature. A brief history of the notable events throughout a little over 60-year-old naval special operations force division. Ever so captivating, the Navy SEAL stories are packed with action, thrill, loss, lessons and chain of circumstances that showcase why and how certain occurrences happen. There should be a book about each of the notable events to describe them even in more detail to gain a clearer picture, however, just like history, everyone will have a point of view. One can read endlessly, and still never really understand, as everyone has a perspective on occasions.
Exciting and informative, this is a good read.
Profile Image for Brad.
125 reviews
September 8, 2018
This was an engaging top-level survey of several Navy SEAL missions about which I did not know very much. It’s not the most detailed book, but to military readers and those interested in the special ops community, this one will peak your interest. After reading this one, I’d like to do a bit more research on Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada) for example. Overall, good book, and one that I’ll reference in the future.
5 reviews
June 1, 2019
This book was pretty dry. It read more like a history text book with added details and some opinions. After I was half way through, I couldn't process all of the information that was shared. This book was a bit different than the authors previous books. The author loves the details and this book sort of read in waves. The book does shed light on the Vietnam era seals and their importance during that conflict.
Profile Image for Federico Bergés.
Author 17 books30 followers
December 23, 2021
Una fascinante historia de los SEALs, escrita por uno de ellos, Dick Couch, que es también autor de Act of Valor.

Desde sus orígenes en la SGM, pasando por los equipos de demolición submarina a las operaciones clandestinas en Cuba, pasando por su bautismo de fuego en Vietnam.

Luego vinieron Granada y Panamá y, finalmente, la adaptación a unas guerras muy poco navales: Afganistán e Irak. La historia es alucinante y está contada de forma muy amena y entretenida.
Profile Image for Jason Riemens.
64 reviews6 followers
March 13, 2017
Good....not great. My expectations might have been too high, but it was easy to stop reading it and not care if a I picked it up again for days. That's a fail in my evaluation. The content was good, but again, not put together in a way I found interesting enough to just keep reading. Certainly recommended based on content, but not on intrigue.
Profile Image for Jeff Wombold.
248 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2017
SEALS

Great book! I had known about the rangers in the Philippines that were part of the rescue at Batan, but it was enlightening to learn about the formation of the NCDU and the UDT. When I first joined in 71, it was SEAL/UDT training. I had thought about going with the SEALS or Submarines and I went with the latter. My hats off to these great warriors.
Profile Image for Katharyn Ahart.
5 reviews
May 25, 2018
Non-fiction must read

I don't normally read nonfiction, but the book is a must read for anyone that cherished our fighting elite. Mostly, no surprises, but I did get a few. A lot was reinforced. As a veteran, I say to these special operations warriors, "thank you for your service."
Profile Image for Josh.
12 reviews
February 27, 2019
Very informative history of the Naval Special Warfare Group dating back to its roots in World War 2 and spanning up to the recent exploits of Navy SEALs and the methods of unconventional/asymmetrical warfare as it is conducted today across the globe. Pretty good read, quick and easy and accessible.
16 reviews
December 27, 2019
History in the making

This book looks at a group of warriors and how they came to be the most dominant force in Spec Ops. From WWII and their meager beginnings up to today, many men have laid the foundations of the SEALS. This book shows the reader how why and where. It is an honor to read about these warriors, to know their history and to associate with their legacy.
33 reviews
June 14, 2020
The book reviews the actions and events of SEALS. If you want to hear short stories of heroic actions, then this is a great book.

I deeply admire and respect the SEAL culture. I was disappointed when the authors choose to focus on stories of actions. The culture of the SEALs embodies American values. This is why we all naturally admire the special band of brothers.
Profile Image for Tom.
7 reviews
November 18, 2020
Reading this book offers an appreciation of the service and commitment of these special warriors. Honor, Integrity and Character set them apart. Humility and privacy allow them to blend with the fabric of our nation. Their service and sacrifice (training / Operations) elevate them as exceptional people. Thanks to all and their families for the service to our great nation.
46 reviews
February 16, 2021
This is a solid book about the history of the US Navy Seal teams. Starts with the UDT ancestors and moves through UDT action in Korea, Kennedys formation of the Seal Teams, the Cuba invasion, Vietnam, Desert Shield and Storm, and the modern war on terror. Definitely a worthwhile read for those interest in history and military history.
181 reviews2 followers
June 30, 2019
A great story

The best history of a proud heritage I have ever read. Truly amazing Americans and super men. We are blessed to have them on our side. A great read and a superb tribute to America's finest.
Profile Image for Beth Daane.
145 reviews12 followers
February 27, 2020
This was a great read, focusing on the history and progression of the Navy Seals. I enjoyed the personal stories as well as the tales of others. I have an immense respect for our military and I’m glad to have read about this specific branch within it.
Profile Image for Ben.
439 reviews2 followers
October 26, 2023
I can't say how many Navy SEAL books I've read, its a lot. They do start to all blend together sometimes, but this one, like many of them always find a way to tell some new stories that I haven't heard before.
11 reviews
June 3, 2019
Amazing book, very well written. Loved reading about the original UDT guys!!!!
Profile Image for Ken Hamner.
370 reviews13 followers
July 1, 2019
Great book about the history and accomplishment of the Navy SEALs and their contributions today. Well worth reading.
16 reviews3 followers
December 30, 2020
I really enjoyed listing to the behind the scenes stories of these larger than life American Heros. Fun fact there is a mission early on that overlaps with a story told in The Right Kind of Crazy, but from a different point of view.
Profile Image for Lisa.
77 reviews1 follower
March 10, 2023
Beautifully told. A must read for patriots and anyone with an interest in history.
10 reviews1 follower
August 27, 2023
great read

dick couch is a great writer, if youve read any of his books youll enjoy them all. this book also has some really cool photos in it! definitely worth reading!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews

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