1 Recce: The night belongs to us

1 Recce #1

by Alexander Strachan

1 Recce. One of the sharpest, most versatile and deadliest specialist units in the South African Defence Force. These men - superfit and unbelievably tough - were dauntless. Time and again they put their lives on the line in covert operations that were mostly conducted under the cover of night, far behind enemy lines. For decades, the participants have kept silent about these secret missions. Now, for the first time, the Recces' legendary commanders reveal details about their many politically sensitive operations. The award-winning author Alexander Strachan, himself a former Recce, tells the full story of 1 Recce's formation, history and role in the Bush War. After years of myth and secrecy, this book provides an inside look at the Recces and the work they did invisibly behind the scenes.

Genres: Military Fiction

366 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 17, 2018

About the author

Alexander Strachan is 'n Afrikaanse skrywer. Hy matrikuleer in 1972 aan die Hoër Landbouskool Tweespruit. Hy studeer tale aan die Universiteit van die Oranje-Vrystaat en later ook literatuur-wetenskap aan Unisa. Hy word 'n professor in Zoeloe aan die Universiteit van Zoeloeland; hy praat Zoeloe vlot. Ná sy bedanking skryf hy voltyds en sit sy wildboerdery voort.

Reviews

[Jacques Hollands · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was lying on my desk for several months now, and I only read it when I had the honour of meeting Col Frans van Dyk a month ago as he is a new neighbour of my mother-in-law. What a quiet and unassuming gentleman! And therein lies the problem. TV and movies have us believe that all special forces are these gung-ho, macho and big-talking types, but the real scary and competent soldiers are the ones that don't stand out.

It was an enjoyable read, and once again, I was amazed at the level of training and endurance these Recces had. My only gripe would be that the story is a bit disjointed at times, and didn't always flow well. But don't let that deter you from reading it. It is worth your time if you have any interest in the Border war.

[Anthony Siebert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stunning recollection of events and operations of the “then” era and circumstances of our time. In wartime no one wins - only loose. The loss of lives are invaluable and innumerable. Yet, it is either you or the other person - a quick decision or in many cases just a response - and someone dies. A good read

[Jono Glover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent History of the South African Recce's. However, the style of writing is often disjointed and I had difficulty following the narrative at times.

[Patrick Mowatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book and makes you even appreciate the Recce even more.

[Steve Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting view into the early history of the "Recces" up to the transition of 1 Reconnaissance Commando into 1 Reconnaissance Regiment. I'm looking forward to the follow up that will cover the next part of their history.

[KayCee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this read.

[Marno · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is inspiring to know how great SA's special forces were.

[Wiese Human · Rating 4 out of 5]

For anyone interested in special operation units within the military, their training and the mission the executed in detail.

Often heart breaking, sometimes funny, always fascinating