Commando: The Inside Story of Britain’s Royal Marines

by Monty Halls

'A truly incredible collection of stories of true heroism.' - Bear Grylls

'A barnstorming account of heroism and fortitude from individuals who epitomise the Commando ethos. It's a splendid read.' - Sir Ranulph Fiennes

'Monty brings us a glimpse of what the green beret really means and the bonds it creates.' - Dan Snow

'This book is the epitome of those Commando qualities - courage, determination, unselfishness and cheerfulness in the face of adversity.' - Aldo Kane

There is only one colour that matters, one that unites us all. And that colour is green.

The Royal Marine Commandos have become a byword for elite raiding skills and cutting-edge military operations. They are globally renowned, yet shrouded in mystery. With unique insight and authority, Commando captures the essence and heart of this revered military unit then and now, exploring their role patrolling the high seas and policing coastlines around the globe, and revealing their rich history and what it means to win and wear the legendary green beret.

With full and exclusive access to every level of the organisation, author and former Royal Marine Monty Halls tells the real stories of extraordinary individuals in latter day conflicts and on global from the Mountain leaders in the Falklands War to high profile drugs busts in the Gulf; from amphibious raids in Iraq to feats of ultra endurance to raise money for their brethren in the veteran community. These are the modern vanguard of a legendary unit, descendants of the misfits and eccentrics who were so effective and feared in WW2 that Hitler famously ordered them to be shot on sight.

Accompanying a major BBC series on the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War, Commandos is an unforgettable glimpse into a rarified world of danger, drama, and valour.

Genres: Military Fiction, Nonfiction, Military History

335 pages, Hardcover

Published April 28, 2022

Reviews

[John Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

There have been many books written about the Royal Marines, their history, their battles, their heroes. None have captured their spirit as well as this book.
As a former Royal myself, listening to Monty tell the stories of some of the finest men the Corps has to offer makes me feel a sense of pride as I consider my own, comparatively minuscule contribution. It’s prompted me to get in touch with old oppos and spin a few dits, whether you know what that means or not, you should read this book.

[Nick Harriss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had watched the accompanying BBC documentary series earlier this year, which focussed on different aspects of training in the RM, and this book picks up from there, with the first chapter covering similar ground. However from there on, it is all different material, covering conflicts within recent memory (Falklands, Iraq, Afghanistan), covering off RM involvement, focussed on the story of one particular individual, and each story in turn set against a particular commando activity (raiding, diving, etc.). The author, who spent 8 years in the RM does his job brilliantly, creating a great page turner, and one filled with emotion , heroism and pathos. Well recommended.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written, this gives a good insight into these remarkable soldiers, although towards the end the stories were beginning to run into each other.

[pierre bovington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book. Did not want it to end. My only son served in Afghanistan and Iraq, I now understand the 1000 yard stare that many veterans have.

[Bismark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some really inspiring characters and stories in here. Perhaps lacked the tight structure to deliver the entire way through, so not quite the five stars.