Desert Rats

by John Parker

In the recent war in Iraq, the 7th Armoured Brigade, bearers of the Desert Rats insignia, was immediately engaged in some of the fiercest early fighting, ultimately taking Basra for the Allies. John Parker draws heavily on first-hand accounts for a story that is a seminal part of modern military history.

Genres: Military History, History, Nonfiction

384 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.

John Parker is a former Fleet Street editor who has written many investigative books.

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book on the history of the Desert Rats covering primarily 7th armoured division then brigade but also covering the sister brigade the 4th armoured brigade. The majority of the book is about the formation and battles in the WW2 then it seems to brush over the latter more modern history. Still a worthwhile read some good photos in there and some fine regiments covered.

[Michael Hastings · Rating 3 out of 5]

The best military history books are as gripping as any fiction but this isn't one of them. It is pretty good though.

[Roy Szweda · Rating 3 out of 5]

A mixed bag IMHO but does manage to avoid the trap some I have read where the title can mislead a bit. This one is about a famous British Army unit from when they won the appellation to their most recent battles.
However, there were times when I felt it was yet another essay on the "Gazala Handicap" and Alamein etc. Of course, context is important to ensure the less well informed of that part of WW2 can keep up. But this risks losing focus on the title subject.
Most battles are hard to follow for us armchair types with no forces experience and maps are essential. This book is not bad in this respect but could be better.
And of course, it would be hard if only their bits were here... despite their fame thanks to a media that loves to hang stories on cute labelled things, they were but one part of the action. I did not leave the book with the impression that they won the war like some might think when reading Band of Brothers. Do not mean to offend but...
And I did feel a bit swizzed with coverage of their Desert Storm actions. Perhaps the author bit off more than he could chew...?
Overall, worth the time spent despite my reservations. I feel a TV series coming on...
A part of me feels uncomfy with the prediliction some have with specific units. No one could deny the likes of 617 Squadron, for example, were tough, brave lads but the media preoccupation can be a disservice to the many others who served and gave their all. But if this book and its ilk trigger an interest in the wider scope of these times then so be it.