Once A Pilgrim: The True Story Of One Man's Courage Under Rebel Fire

by Will Scully

In May 1997 ex-SAS soldier Will Scully and his former regiment, known as the "Pilgrims", pulled off what the American ambassador called "the biggest emergency evacuation since Vietnam". In Freetown, Sierra Leone, they were caught in a military coup, their hotel under siege. This is his story.

Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Shay Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just to say one of the best war stories I've read and it's all true. Gripping from start to finish, unable to put down and have read it three times. Unbelievable and heart pounding. Cannot understand why this has ever been made into a film!

[Edozie John · Rating 4 out of 5]

I spoke to the Nigerian who commanded the troops, Capt Achalonu and he confirms that Scully's recollection is fake. He never had a gun and he only had his binoculars to point out the rebels to the Soldiers.
I got in touch will 2 other soldiers that were there and they confirmed the book is completely false. He got a shrapnel hit his head and was evacuated.

[Neil Higginson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, couldn’t put it down, I wish it was out on kindle as I’d like to read it again

[David Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A totally compelling account of one man's experience during the Sierra Leone war. One of those stories that's not had a lot of media attention despite some unbelievable heroics. Apparently there will be a film coming in 2015, can't wait to see if Will Scully gets the accolade & recognition he deserves from the attention that the film should generate.

[Cropredy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the greatest adventure books ever written. My copy was passed around to 20 males on a trip to Macchu Pichu and everyone of them said it was one of the best books they had ever read. The story will leave you in your airplane seat even after the plane arrives.