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Among Heroes: A U.S. Navy SEAL's True Story of Friendship, Heroism, and the Ultimate Sacrifice
Now from Brandon Webb, Navy SEAL sniper and New York Times bestselling author, comes his personal account of the eight friends and fellow SEALs who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Knowing these great men—who they were, how they lived, and what they stood for—has changed my life. We can’t let them be forgotten. So read about these amazing men, share their stories, and learn from them as I have. We’ve mourned their deaths. Let’s celebrate their lives.”—Brandon Webb
As a Navy SEAL, Brandon Webb rose to the top of the world’s most elite sniper corps, experiencing years of punishing training and combat missions from the Persian Gulf to Afghanistan. Among the best of the best, he led the SEALs’ clandestine sniper training program as course manager, instructing a new generation of the world’s top snipers. Along the way, Webb served beside, trained, and supported men he came to know not just as fellow warriors, but as friends and, eventually, as heroes. Among Heroes gives his personal account of these eight extraordinary SEALs, who gave all for their comrades—and their country.
Here are the true stories behind the remarkable valor and abiding humanity of those “sheepdogs” (as they call themselves) who protect us from the wolves of the world. Of Matt “Axe” Axelson, who perished on the Lone Survivor mission in Afghanistan. Of Chris Campbell, Heath Robinson, and JT Tumilson, who were among the thirty-eight casualties of Extortion 17, the Chinook helicopter shot down in August 2011. Of Glen Doherty, Webb’s best friend for more than a decade, killed while helping secure the successful rescue and extraction of American CIA and State Department diplomats in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012; and other close friends, classmates, and fellow warriors.
In Among Heroes, Webb offers eight intensely personal profiles of uncommon courage—who these men were, what they stood for, and how they came to make the ultimate sacrifice. These are men who left behind powerfully instructive examples of what it means to be alive—and what it truly means to be a hero.
INCLUDES PHOTOS
“Knowing these great men—who they were, how they lived, and what they stood for—has changed my life. We can’t let them be forgotten. So read about these amazing men, share their stories, and learn from them as I have. We’ve mourned their deaths. Let’s celebrate their lives.”—Brandon Webb
As a Navy SEAL, Brandon Webb rose to the top of the world’s most elite sniper corps, experiencing years of punishing training and combat missions from the Persian Gulf to Afghanistan. Among the best of the best, he led the SEALs’ clandestine sniper training program as course manager, instructing a new generation of the world’s top snipers. Along the way, Webb served beside, trained, and supported men he came to know not just as fellow warriors, but as friends and, eventually, as heroes. Among Heroes gives his personal account of these eight extraordinary SEALs, who gave all for their comrades—and their country.
Here are the true stories behind the remarkable valor and abiding humanity of those “sheepdogs” (as they call themselves) who protect us from the wolves of the world. Of Matt “Axe” Axelson, who perished on the Lone Survivor mission in Afghanistan. Of Chris Campbell, Heath Robinson, and JT Tumilson, who were among the thirty-eight casualties of Extortion 17, the Chinook helicopter shot down in August 2011. Of Glen Doherty, Webb’s best friend for more than a decade, killed while helping secure the successful rescue and extraction of American CIA and State Department diplomats in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012; and other close friends, classmates, and fellow warriors.
In Among Heroes, Webb offers eight intensely personal profiles of uncommon courage—who these men were, what they stood for, and how they came to make the ultimate sacrifice. These are men who left behind powerfully instructive examples of what it means to be alive—and what it truly means to be a hero.
INCLUDES PHOTOS
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2015
161 people are currently reading
1584 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
August 24, 2015
-This was a First Read Win-
I was so excited when I won this novel written by Brandon Webb. It was one of the first books I won as a giveaway but I've also been really interested in what is really happening with the war. It's also important that these stories of these men that risk their lives, die saving our countries names are imprinted somewhere, that their stories are shared. These men put their lives on hold, on the line to keep us protected for very little award. Men that play football make more then men that risk their lives to keep us safe. I will not rant about how little these men make but focus more on the story of eight brave men that Brandon Webb introduced me to.
This was a good story and a good memory for these men that passed away some who died protecting our nation, and some who died in different ways, but still deserve to be mentioned for the work they did do to keep the United States safe. Sometimes I did feel as if the author spent too much time talking about himself rather then talking about the men, but his story is important too. 'Glen's story' probably hit me the hardest mainly because my heart shook knowing how important this man was to the author as Glen was nearly mentioned in every other story. I also really connected with the man Matt Axelson and even went on to watch Lone Survivor after I completed the book. I learned not only about eight great men, but I learned more about what the Navy Seals is really about and why some great men put their lives on the line to keep us safe.
I'd recommend this book to anybody that is interested in the SEALS, or just interested in reading about eight amazing men that gave up their lives protecting us, their stories deserved to be told. 4/5 for me!
I was so excited when I won this novel written by Brandon Webb. It was one of the first books I won as a giveaway but I've also been really interested in what is really happening with the war. It's also important that these stories of these men that risk their lives, die saving our countries names are imprinted somewhere, that their stories are shared. These men put their lives on hold, on the line to keep us protected for very little award. Men that play football make more then men that risk their lives to keep us safe. I will not rant about how little these men make but focus more on the story of eight brave men that Brandon Webb introduced me to.
This was a good story and a good memory for these men that passed away some who died protecting our nation, and some who died in different ways, but still deserve to be mentioned for the work they did do to keep the United States safe. Sometimes I did feel as if the author spent too much time talking about himself rather then talking about the men, but his story is important too. 'Glen's story' probably hit me the hardest mainly because my heart shook knowing how important this man was to the author as Glen was nearly mentioned in every other story. I also really connected with the man Matt Axelson and even went on to watch Lone Survivor after I completed the book. I learned not only about eight great men, but I learned more about what the Navy Seals is really about and why some great men put their lives on the line to keep us safe.
I'd recommend this book to anybody that is interested in the SEALS, or just interested in reading about eight amazing men that gave up their lives protecting us, their stories deserved to be told. 4/5 for me!
July 15, 2015
One word. Wow! This book is a must read. Brandon writes about these men with such love, it pours out of his written words. It's not a sad book, Brandon gives us a story of each man's life and only talks about the deaths in only a few sentences. It's about living, loving, failing, moving forward and never giving up. Such an inspiring read. True heroes that will never be forgotten.
July 21, 2025
I want to send my thanks to Brandon Webb and John David Mann for writing this remarkable book in tribute to their fellow Navy SEAL'S and heroes. I also want to thank both of them and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the copy of Among Heroes, A U.S. Navy SEAL's True Story of Friendship, Heroism, and the Ultimate Sacrifice that I was lucky enough to win in the Giveaway.
It was a pleasure to read about the real life and training of Navy SEALS and not the fictionalized versions that are entertaining and interesting, but are not at the same level as the true stories written by another hero who has been there and done it with the friends he honored with this work. Thank you all for your service from the daughter of a MIA & POW that returned to become my father and understands that war stays with the men and women that serve for life.
It was a pleasure to read about the real life and training of Navy SEALS and not the fictionalized versions that are entertaining and interesting, but are not at the same level as the true stories written by another hero who has been there and done it with the friends he honored with this work. Thank you all for your service from the daughter of a MIA & POW that returned to become my father and understands that war stays with the men and women that serve for life.
June 18, 2015
What an amazing read!! BW puts it in a way we can understand what some of his closest friends went through and made that ultimate sacrifice. Brings you laughter and tears. A very emotional read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2015
Last night I finished listening to Brandon Webb’s book Among Heroes. It an anthology of stories about eight men, fellow Navy SEALs he had considered dear friends. These men died in freak accidents, training accidents or in combat, essentially doing what SEALs do--live large and hard, accomplishing all the things that make them who they are, America’s elite.
Webb prefaces each chapter with a commentary in his own voice and ends with a reaction from that fallen soldier’s loved ones. Each story is as different as the person whom that chapter profiles. Webb’s narration is moving and provides a true example of a man who cared about and misses his friends. It is not a sad book; in fact it is filled with crazy stories and daring feats that give the reader, especially those who haven’t had the privilege of knowing such men, feel as if they now know these heroes. Their inspiring stories made me want to be a better person. I don’t know is this was Brandon’s intent but this is the effect it had on me.
Over the years I have become acquainted with numerous veterans who have been wounded in war--life threatening wounds that leave one wearing prosthetics for the rest of their lives. Most of these vets rarely, if ever, complain. I am sure that in the privacy of their homes with the ones they love or with others who have suffered from these same catastrophic injuries, the vets may feel more freedom in voicing their frustrations. I have not suffered the way some of them have, so it is certainly not my place to judge. I do want to say that I have been inspired by these people, in how they have confronted their adversities and how they continue to move forward.
There are a lot of young men and women who have perished in the last fourteen years. Each and every one has a unique and sometimes comparable story. The stories should all be told. Well done, Brandon. Keep doing what you are doing. Later.
Webb prefaces each chapter with a commentary in his own voice and ends with a reaction from that fallen soldier’s loved ones. Each story is as different as the person whom that chapter profiles. Webb’s narration is moving and provides a true example of a man who cared about and misses his friends. It is not a sad book; in fact it is filled with crazy stories and daring feats that give the reader, especially those who haven’t had the privilege of knowing such men, feel as if they now know these heroes. Their inspiring stories made me want to be a better person. I don’t know is this was Brandon’s intent but this is the effect it had on me.
Over the years I have become acquainted with numerous veterans who have been wounded in war--life threatening wounds that leave one wearing prosthetics for the rest of their lives. Most of these vets rarely, if ever, complain. I am sure that in the privacy of their homes with the ones they love or with others who have suffered from these same catastrophic injuries, the vets may feel more freedom in voicing their frustrations. I have not suffered the way some of them have, so it is certainly not my place to judge. I do want to say that I have been inspired by these people, in how they have confronted their adversities and how they continue to move forward.
There are a lot of young men and women who have perished in the last fourteen years. Each and every one has a unique and sometimes comparable story. The stories should all be told. Well done, Brandon. Keep doing what you are doing. Later.
April 27, 2015
I won an ARC of this book through Goodreads and just finished it.
I'm so thankful that Brandon Webb wrote this book. I've heard it said that military men who have seen action deny being thought of as a hero. The true heroes, they say, are the ones that never made it back. This book is about them.
The fact that Webb was a personal friend of so many men who were involved in some of the most heroic and often tragic acts in the fight for freedom is amazing. He really gives you a good sense of the tight-knit community that the spec ops world is. Spec ops guys often seem larger than life, hard-nosed, emotionless, warriors. They almost seem inhuman. Webb does a really good job of describing just what these men were like and a lot of times it's the complete opposite of what is typically considered a "spec ops guy". He makes them real.
It's obvious that he spent a lot of time with these men's families talking about these men and who they were. I would imagine that these families are very proud to have a book talking about their sons/fathers/brothers and showing the world who they were and what they fought for. Flaws and all. Webb doesn't sugarcoat it, these men were not perfect. That makes what they did even more amazing to me. What these men did/do on a daily basis so that I can enjoy the basic freedoms that I enjoy is nothing short of amazing.
I guess that's kind of when it hit home for me, when I realized that these are real men doing extraordinary things and giving the ultimate sacrifice...for me.
Just read the book.
I'm so thankful that Brandon Webb wrote this book. I've heard it said that military men who have seen action deny being thought of as a hero. The true heroes, they say, are the ones that never made it back. This book is about them.
The fact that Webb was a personal friend of so many men who were involved in some of the most heroic and often tragic acts in the fight for freedom is amazing. He really gives you a good sense of the tight-knit community that the spec ops world is. Spec ops guys often seem larger than life, hard-nosed, emotionless, warriors. They almost seem inhuman. Webb does a really good job of describing just what these men were like and a lot of times it's the complete opposite of what is typically considered a "spec ops guy". He makes them real.
It's obvious that he spent a lot of time with these men's families talking about these men and who they were. I would imagine that these families are very proud to have a book talking about their sons/fathers/brothers and showing the world who they were and what they fought for. Flaws and all. Webb doesn't sugarcoat it, these men were not perfect. That makes what they did even more amazing to me. What these men did/do on a daily basis so that I can enjoy the basic freedoms that I enjoy is nothing short of amazing.
I guess that's kind of when it hit home for me, when I realized that these are real men doing extraordinary things and giving the ultimate sacrifice...for me.
Just read the book.
August 18, 2015
This was a nice book about the lives of men that both Mr. Webb served with or knew and all were Navy Seals. Some passed away from training accidents, some from deployments and some were already out of the service but still doing work for the government, example Glenn Doherty who went into Benghazi to help former Seal Ty Woods and others. Each chapter is a memoir of their life and joy had while they were doing what they loved, and also about the family they each left behind. He really did not go into detail about the way each one passed especially if there was or is a controversy surrounding the incident like Benghazi, and Extortion 17, where he knew three of the men that died that fateful day. Went with all of that this book was still good as a testament to the men and their legacy and hopefully for some even their family. I am not going to get into each and every little thing because each one of these men sacrificed themselves for our country and being a son of a WWII vet that is what is important. A fine book of stories of a friend honoring his friends.
May 31, 2015
Story that needs to be told
I have read many memoirs of Special Operators over the years and have read Mr. Webb's own story. This book is a true story of a brotherhood that few among us can understand but could learn from just the same. A couple of the names you may recognize but most you won't; which makes this book even more important. The lessons learned from these heroes are different from each other but put together give a better insight into what makes a Navy Seal. As an American, I am so glad to know their names and their stories, I need to know their stories. We all need to know their stories.
I have read many memoirs of Special Operators over the years and have read Mr. Webb's own story. This book is a true story of a brotherhood that few among us can understand but could learn from just the same. A couple of the names you may recognize but most you won't; which makes this book even more important. The lessons learned from these heroes are different from each other but put together give a better insight into what makes a Navy Seal. As an American, I am so glad to know their names and their stories, I need to know their stories. We all need to know their stories.
March 23, 2016
I really loved this book. It was a very easy book to read but also with a lot of sadness. As I read about each character I began to get connected with that character and every time I heard that they died or how they died, made me felt bad every time. The way the characters are described, it seemed to me that they did not deserve to die. Overall this book is great and I loved it because it also reminds me of the constant sacrifices these men are making everyday and how grateful we should be. The only thing I have against this book is that I thought there would be more action but even without it, it was still a good book.
June 19, 2015
Awesome, inspiring book. I met John Zinn a couple of times and he was such a standup guy. The kind of guy who could talk to anyone and one who you'd never forget once you knew him. I loved reading more about his life and how he became a Navy SEAL. Reading about the other heroes in the book was just awe-inspiring. Such guts and never for the glory. Just to serve and protect the freedoms we so often take for granted. I tip my hat to them and thank them for their service, their sacrifice.
June 12, 2015
You need to know more about the rough men who are protecting us
"We sleep peacefully in our beds because rough men stand by to visit violence on those that would do us harm." - George Orwell. Navy SEALS are among those "rough men," and should be honored as such. Brandon Webb (one himself) teaches about some of the heroes who allow us to sleep peacefully. A great book about some of his friends who have given their lives for us. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
"We sleep peacefully in our beds because rough men stand by to visit violence on those that would do us harm." - George Orwell. Navy SEALS are among those "rough men," and should be honored as such. Brandon Webb (one himself) teaches about some of the heroes who allow us to sleep peacefully. A great book about some of his friends who have given their lives for us. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
July 20, 2015
For those who don't get it
Those who should be leading in these times should understand that these events answer our ex-secretary of state's question. "What difference does it make"?
This is about what our Commander in Chief refers to as "bumps in the road. As one goes forward in these tough times one should be careful when bending over to examine the road ahead after all you are being "led from behind".
Those who should be leading in these times should understand that these events answer our ex-secretary of state's question. "What difference does it make"?
This is about what our Commander in Chief refers to as "bumps in the road. As one goes forward in these tough times one should be careful when bending over to examine the road ahead after all you are being "led from behind".
August 4, 2015
Brandon Webb's book is important. We enjoy the benefits of freedom because people like Brandon and his teammates have bought it with their lives. At a time when this nation sending soldiers all around the world to do some tough things, it's important to remember that.
This book is Brandon's story, and the story of the heroes with whom he served. We need to honor them, support their families, and respect their job much more. This is not only a touching tribute but a great reminder as well.
This book is Brandon's story, and the story of the heroes with whom he served. We need to honor them, support their families, and respect their job much more. This is not only a touching tribute but a great reminder as well.
May 27, 2015
This is an excellent way to remember a few of our fallen heroes. I had been anxiously awaiting this release and found myself unable to put it down. Webb speaks with raw emotion and grit throughout and I appreciate that he speaks as a veteran, something not found in many memoirs. Would definitely recommend this.
July 8, 2015
A book worth a read just even if it is just for the sake of knowing that soldiers of any kind, in this case, Spec Ops soldiers, also have a "human" side to them.
No big war stories yet just one (or two?) peoples personal stories with guys who served the US as SEALS and who lost their lives for the greater good!
No big war stories yet just one (or two?) peoples personal stories with guys who served the US as SEALS and who lost their lives for the greater good!
October 8, 2015
One navy SEAL man telling the story of five other SEALs. They were his friends and guys he served with. One died parachuting, one died slipping on a rock after base jumping, and three die on a helicopter during a mission. The author also talks about his personal life, including after his time in the service.
September 30, 2015
I hope you read this book, just like Brandon Webb asks us to, in order to REMEMBER the lives of those "sheepdogs" who lived to protect others, no matter what the cost. I feel like I knew these men who paid the greatest price and I hope we can all honor ALL those who served and serve by remembering them. Thank you for an amazing journey into the lives of some true heroes.
January 30, 2017
What a great book. Getting a peek into the lives of these courageous, driven and human men is what I needed. I didn't realize this book was going to help part of me heal from the loss of my nephew. Great, honest words can do that and what these men have given all of us can never be repaid. Great book.
July 17, 2015
The most personal and emotionally touching book on the subject I've ever read. so far, my favorite of all. it put me in the lives of the men Brandon speaks about. Not just in the situations they were in, but right into their hearts and souls. Perfectly written with grace and eloquence.
August 19, 2015
I loved this book for a lot of reasons, not the least of which is that it gave a window into the amazing life and character of my old friend Glen Doherty. but the whole book is well written and compelling.
January 1, 2016
An awesome read for those who love and appreciate our service men and women. This book give a different and interesting perspective of our countries military conflicts from the formers SEAL's perspective. Two thumbs up!
March 4, 2016
These six heart-wrenching stories of the US SEALs who gave the ultimate sacrifice leaves me without words. After reading other books about the SEALs, I recognized many of the men's names and it makes me feel like I know them even more. An amazing retelling in short chapters of these men's stories.
April 18, 2016
Great book Brandon can tell a story and this is a valuable one. The is the beginning of laying down the stories of the heroes of this generation. Thank you Brandon for your service and your dedication to the Heroes of today.
August 22, 2015
Good Read!
Another great book by Brandon Webb! Great stories about real American heroes! I really enjoyed learning what kind of people they were. I wish I could have known them.
Another great book by Brandon Webb! Great stories about real American heroes! I really enjoyed learning what kind of people they were. I wish I could have known them.
June 11, 2015
My new 2nd favorite book ever. Great read.
July 16, 2015
So captivating and humbling, a great read through and through.
July 30, 2015
Great Book!
The stories were inspiring and kept you on your seat. I plan on everyday living my life to the fullest just as they had.
The stories were inspiring and kept you on your seat. I plan on everyday living my life to the fullest just as they had.
December 23, 2015
Background of American heroes - gave their life for U S A
November 7, 2016
Great insight into the lives of some Seals.
November 11, 2016
Another great Navy Seal story. Only this one is actually several stories. Well written and great character development. It's comfort to know we are among heroes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews