THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB discussion
Authors and Their Books
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AUTHOR FORUM - REGULO ZAPATA Jr.
Mod
Hi Rick, Thank you for the nice comments and the welcome to your Book Club.
Well, I guess, I would have to say, that I never in my wildest dreams would of thought, that I would soon become a writer later in my following years.
Having served in the U.S. Military and having to write and work on several other writing projects for the U.S. military would of never lead me to believe, that I would be writing such a true story on my book.
I do have to say there were several authors and friends who did inspire me to share and write my story on Desperate Lands and about my experience as a U.S. Special Forces Soldier known as the Green Berets conducting special operations in Horn of Africa and Afghanistan.
These are stories that must be shared and told to the public during times of war!
As an author, I would do the same for new inspiring authors and readers, to go ahead and write what they want to say and express and share their stories to the public and interested readers! This would be in either as a book writer, or film screenwriter!
Please... feel free to ask me any questions! I look forward to talking to anyone on your book club!
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Well, I guess, I would have to say, that I never in my wildest dreams would of thought, that I would soon become a writer later in my following years.
Having served in the U.S. Military and having to write and work on several other writing projects for the U.S. military would of never lead me to believe, that I would be writing such a true story on my book.
I do have to say there were several authors and friends who did inspire me to share and write my story on Desperate Lands and about my experience as a U.S. Special Forces Soldier known as the Green Berets conducting special operations in Horn of Africa and Afghanistan.
These are stories that must be shared and told to the public during times of war!
As an author, I would do the same for new inspiring authors and readers, to go ahead and write what they want to say and express and share their stories to the public and interested readers! This would be in either as a book writer, or film screenwriter!
Please... feel free to ask me any questions! I look forward to talking to anyone on your book club!
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Regulo; Welcome! fantastic bio! In fact, did you consider writing a biography about yourself when you decided to write a book? Considering the topic of your book were some parts difficult to write since there are emotional overtones within the pages? Some soldiers do not even wish to speak about the events they saw so I figure some parts of your writing must have been difficult. Yes, people are divided on those wars weather it is civilians or government officials. Your perspective would be most interesting. Many people forget the soldier's who fight it and their feelings, experiences, etc. I have a friend who served in the Canadian version of Special Forces and he will talk about what it was like to be him. So, I believe I would have a better perspective than the average citizen. I first read about the introduction of U.S. Special Forces in the Battle for Rome in WW2 on the Anzio bridgehead. I commend you to write such a book. I have read the biography of General Chuck Yeager. However, dogfighting is just not the same as fighting the enemy on the ground. How has been you reception for such an unusual and valuable book?
Regulo, one of my Goodreads friends served as a Marine intelligence officer in Iraq (she's no longer on active duty, but still with the reserves). She writes novels with soldiers or ex-soldiers as characters, which incorporate some of her own experience; but much of the latter is classified, so she can't talk about it very freely. Given your background in Special Ops, did you run into similar problems in relating your experiences --especially in a nonfiction context?Best wishes for success with your writing venture!
Werner wrote: "Regulo, one of my Goodreads friends served as a Marine intelligence officer in Iraq (she's no longer on active duty, but still with the reserves). She writes novels with soldiers or ex-soldiers as..."
Hi Werner, Thank you for the nice comments and for stopping by to say hello to me! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and comments! Please...keep the questions coming!
As for your friends experience as a writer and Marine Officer in Iraq. I am sure she has some great stories to tell, as do all military personnel, who have served in the U.S. Military in all wars! What's the name of her book?
This is why it is important for these soldiers to share with the public these incredible stories of times of war. As you look around in book stores today in Europe or in the United States. You see more and more non-fiction stories written of soldiers experiences in the war of Iraq and Afghanistan and of their experience on the Global war on terror! It's incredible!
But for those who are still under U.S. military contract, they are restricted to share or expose certain topics because of dangers and privacy of the soldiers who are still serving and in harms way, and are not authorized to share certain topics or events!
As for my experience as a writer and having served as an active duty U.S. Special Forces soldier. I too, kepted myself from sharing certain topics and events.
My story in Desperate Lands is only a small piece of the bigger mosaic puzzel of U.S. and foreign Special Operations Forces operating in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
As I wrote my book, I wanted to share the day to day events of what we as Special Forces soldiers were doing, dealing and facing in the battle fields. The book comes with several photos to share and give you a perspective view of what we saw and did!
I look forward to talking to you some more!
Thank You,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Werner, Thank you for the nice comments and for stopping by to say hello to me! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and comments! Please...keep the questions coming!
As for your friends experience as a writer and Marine Officer in Iraq. I am sure she has some great stories to tell, as do all military personnel, who have served in the U.S. Military in all wars! What's the name of her book?
This is why it is important for these soldiers to share with the public these incredible stories of times of war. As you look around in book stores today in Europe or in the United States. You see more and more non-fiction stories written of soldiers experiences in the war of Iraq and Afghanistan and of their experience on the Global war on terror! It's incredible!
But for those who are still under U.S. military contract, they are restricted to share or expose certain topics because of dangers and privacy of the soldiers who are still serving and in harms way, and are not authorized to share certain topics or events!
As for my experience as a writer and having served as an active duty U.S. Special Forces soldier. I too, kepted myself from sharing certain topics and events.
My story in Desperate Lands is only a small piece of the bigger mosaic puzzel of U.S. and foreign Special Operations Forces operating in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
As I wrote my book, I wanted to share the day to day events of what we as Special Forces soldiers were doing, dealing and facing in the battle fields. The book comes with several photos to share and give you a perspective view of what we saw and did!
I look forward to talking to you some more!
Thank You,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian wrote: "Hi Regulo; Welcome! fantastic bio! In fact, did you consider writing a biography about yourself when you decided to write a book? Considering the topic of your book were some parts difficult to wri..."
Hi Brian, I Thank you so much for the nice comments and for stopping by to say hello to me! Please...keep the questions coming!
Desperate Lands; is only a small piece of the bigger mosaic puzzel of U.S. and foreign Special Operations Forces operating in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
My book is only one small piece of the story, but I have many other stories to tell and share!
Some parts of my story were difficult to write, and some were not mentioned in the book, because of certain restrictions and because of anger and privacy. Somethings you just dont want to talk about, or remember!
War is not perfect, and things don't always go the way you plan for during your missions, and things turn out to be very ugle!
I wrote my book, because I wanted to share the day to day events of what we as Special Forces soldiers were doing in Horn of Africa or in Afghanistan.
I wanted share, what we were dealing, and facing in the battle fields. The book comes with several photos to share and give you a better perspective view of what we saw and did while in the combat zones.
I had the opportunity in working with other foreign special forces and Canadian Special Forces soldiers while in Bagram, Afghanistan and it was an experience to be with them. They were very serious and very professional soldiers!
I have not read the book you mentioned on U.S. Special Forces in the Battle for Rome in WW2 on the Anzio bridgehead. I have to put this book on my reading list! Thanks for sharing with me.
Brian, I look forward to talking to you some more!
Please stop by at my goodreads author profile site.
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Thank You,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Brian, I Thank you so much for the nice comments and for stopping by to say hello to me! Please...keep the questions coming!
Desperate Lands; is only a small piece of the bigger mosaic puzzel of U.S. and foreign Special Operations Forces operating in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
My book is only one small piece of the story, but I have many other stories to tell and share!
Some parts of my story were difficult to write, and some were not mentioned in the book, because of certain restrictions and because of anger and privacy. Somethings you just dont want to talk about, or remember!
War is not perfect, and things don't always go the way you plan for during your missions, and things turn out to be very ugle!
I wrote my book, because I wanted to share the day to day events of what we as Special Forces soldiers were doing in Horn of Africa or in Afghanistan.
I wanted share, what we were dealing, and facing in the battle fields. The book comes with several photos to share and give you a better perspective view of what we saw and did while in the combat zones.
I had the opportunity in working with other foreign special forces and Canadian Special Forces soldiers while in Bagram, Afghanistan and it was an experience to be with them. They were very serious and very professional soldiers!
I have not read the book you mentioned on U.S. Special Forces in the Battle for Rome in WW2 on the Anzio bridgehead. I have to put this book on my reading list! Thanks for sharing with me.
Brian, I look forward to talking to you some more!
Please stop by at my goodreads author profile site.
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Thank You,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Well, I think it is great you would share what you have seen, the good and the bad. I have read many history books on war and I do realize that some wars of justified. My great grandfather was a part of Maritime Intelligence in WW1 and my grandfather served as a sapper in WW2 based in England. My grandfather never mentioned anything about it, not even disclosing his injury and thus an honourable discharge. Of course he was part of the Legion here in Timmins. I was wondering if I should ask this question. Soldiers in Vietnam were only following orders and it was a very unpopular war and the veterans were treated unkindly back then. Have you received a better welcome back home? My friend in the Canadian Special Forces separates the horrible things he saw and is well adjusted. For those who came back with Post Traumatic Stress it is very sad for even our own government does not know how to treat them. My friends job was to go alone in stealth mode several miles behind enemy lines and eliminate certain targets. He has many medals for being an elite sharpshooter. I think it is a crime what he gets for a pension for risking his life greatly. Is retirement after duty comfortable in the U.S. pension wise? My message to all my friend on Facebook was simply thank a veteran before there are none to thank. Through their efforts the world is so much more democratic.
Hi Regulo,Welcome to the book club!! Your book is right up my alley as I love non-fiction accounts on far away places. I just ordered your book from Amazon and look forward to reading it!
My question concerns your time in Afghanistan. One of the great tragedies linked to 9/11 was the murder of Afghan hero Ahmad Shah Massoud on 9/9/01 by Al Queda probably in conjunction with the 9/11 plot. Had Ahmad Shah Massoud still been alive, he almost certainly would have been the top ally for the US in that country. I'd like to know if Massoud is still revered in Afghanistan and if you saw reminders of him such as portraits, etc while there? Also, if you think he would have made a difference in how successful we have been there so far had he been alive?
Gary wrote: "Hi Regulo,Welcome to the book club!! Your book is right up my alley as I love non-fiction accounts on far away places. I just ordered your book from Amazon and look forward to reading it!
My ..."
Hi Gary, I Thank you so much for the nice comments and for stopping by to say hello to me! I also Thank you for getting my book to read! Please...keep the questions coming!
My understanding is that Ahmad Shah Massoud ultimately drew military support from the United States during the administrations of Ronald Reagan.
Under the Reagan administration, U.S. support for the mujahideen ultimately evolved into an official U.S. foreign policy doctrine, known as the Reagan Doctrine, under which the U.S. supported anti-Soviet resistance movements in Afghanistan.
Therefore, this provided the key connection which later on, Ahmad Shah Massoud was known as the military commander of the United Islamic Front for the Salvation of Afghanistan known as the (Northern Alliance) then!
During the early stages of the CIA/U.S. Special Forces infiltration into Afghanistan. U.S. Special Forces linked up with the Northen Alliance forces to begin attacks on Al Qaeda/Taliban positions.
It's very interesting and disturbing to learn, that Ahmad Shah Massoud was murdered just days before the Sept 11, 2001 attacks in the United States. Question is Why?
I guess, I would say that Ahmad Shah Massoud and the CIA had been working very closely together as to following the Al-Qaeda network and locations of Bin Laden and his commanders. Sometimes the spider-web traps and networks on Intelligence gathering gets very dangerous!
As I arrived in Afghanistan in early 2002, I was able to see reminders of Ahmad Shah Massoud still revered in Afghanistan with reminders of him such as portraits and writings on the walls.
I would have to say that Ahmad Shah Massoud would definitely be a better connection/favor to the United States, due to his pass accomplishments in Afghanistan and the support of certain Afghanistan people. Although very political!
I look forward to talking to you some more soon.
Thanks,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
My ..."
Hi Gary, I Thank you so much for the nice comments and for stopping by to say hello to me! I also Thank you for getting my book to read! Please...keep the questions coming!
My understanding is that Ahmad Shah Massoud ultimately drew military support from the United States during the administrations of Ronald Reagan.
Under the Reagan administration, U.S. support for the mujahideen ultimately evolved into an official U.S. foreign policy doctrine, known as the Reagan Doctrine, under which the U.S. supported anti-Soviet resistance movements in Afghanistan.
Therefore, this provided the key connection which later on, Ahmad Shah Massoud was known as the military commander of the United Islamic Front for the Salvation of Afghanistan known as the (Northern Alliance) then!
During the early stages of the CIA/U.S. Special Forces infiltration into Afghanistan. U.S. Special Forces linked up with the Northen Alliance forces to begin attacks on Al Qaeda/Taliban positions.
It's very interesting and disturbing to learn, that Ahmad Shah Massoud was murdered just days before the Sept 11, 2001 attacks in the United States. Question is Why?
I guess, I would say that Ahmad Shah Massoud and the CIA had been working very closely together as to following the Al-Qaeda network and locations of Bin Laden and his commanders. Sometimes the spider-web traps and networks on Intelligence gathering gets very dangerous!
As I arrived in Afghanistan in early 2002, I was able to see reminders of Ahmad Shah Massoud still revered in Afghanistan with reminders of him such as portraits and writings on the walls.
I would have to say that Ahmad Shah Massoud would definitely be a better connection/favor to the United States, due to his pass accomplishments in Afghanistan and the support of certain Afghanistan people. Although very political!
I look forward to talking to you some more soon.
Thanks,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian wrote: "Well, I think it is great you would share what you have seen, the good and the bad. I have read many history books on war and I do realize that some wars of justified. My great grandfather was a pa..."
Hi Brian, Thank you for sharing your story about your great grandfather who served in World War-I and about your grandfather who served in World War-II. Those were some very intense days and times of war. Can you just imagine if they were to share their stories of war in those days!
There is not a day, that I dont think about, when I was in Afghanistan. It feels, as if it was just yesterday in Afghanistan. I think it will be the same for many men and women who have served in Iraq or in Afghanistan.
I feel, that the American people have welcome all U.S. military personnel returning home from the war of Iraq and Afghanistan. Believe me, the military men and women appreciate this welcome back home!
Just three weeks ago, in my small home town in Gilroy, California/USA, population of about fifty thousand people. I witness a funeral of our first U.S. Army soldier killed in Afghanistan on 25 Dec 2009 while in combat. This hit close to home in our community! This young soldier had a young wife and three children.
It was incredible to see our community attended the funeral. I had never seen anything like this before. I was just amazed to see the Army Honor Guard, The Gilroy City Police force, Gilroy Fire Department involved during the funeral.
I would say that the retirement is good for most soldiers in the United States. As for our injuried soldiers coming home. The VA does the best they can to help these soldiers, I Think! There is always room for more Health improvemnts, but over all good.
I look forward to chating with you some more.
Thank You,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Brian, Thank you for sharing your story about your great grandfather who served in World War-I and about your grandfather who served in World War-II. Those were some very intense days and times of war. Can you just imagine if they were to share their stories of war in those days!
There is not a day, that I dont think about, when I was in Afghanistan. It feels, as if it was just yesterday in Afghanistan. I think it will be the same for many men and women who have served in Iraq or in Afghanistan.
I feel, that the American people have welcome all U.S. military personnel returning home from the war of Iraq and Afghanistan. Believe me, the military men and women appreciate this welcome back home!
Just three weeks ago, in my small home town in Gilroy, California/USA, population of about fifty thousand people. I witness a funeral of our first U.S. Army soldier killed in Afghanistan on 25 Dec 2009 while in combat. This hit close to home in our community! This young soldier had a young wife and three children.
It was incredible to see our community attended the funeral. I had never seen anything like this before. I was just amazed to see the Army Honor Guard, The Gilroy City Police force, Gilroy Fire Department involved during the funeral.
I would say that the retirement is good for most soldiers in the United States. As for our injuried soldiers coming home. The VA does the best they can to help these soldiers, I Think! There is always room for more Health improvemnts, but over all good.
I look forward to chating with you some more.
Thank You,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Much better in the U.S. for pensions that is for sure. I was wondering what has made the biggest difference to infiltrate the terrorists, technology, better intelligence or better training, all of the above? The Battle For Rome was a gruesome factual account that I tracked down through the song "When The Tigers Broke Free' by Roger Waters. The allies were facing German crack troops and were afraid of nothing except the "Devils Brigade". An elite group of U.S. Special Forces they could not see and feared greatly. The fear spread as every time they attacked out of nowhere they left the ace of spades to let them know who did it. The "Devil's Brigade" use to go miles behind enemy lines and captured captains, privates, for example and emerge on the allied side with livestock, chickens, all kinds of food. They even ran a gambling casino behind enemy lines in an old church establishment. The U.S. government did not bother to reprimand them for they more than achieved results. From a German commanders point of view, all their soldiers were relieve when they left an area to be redeployed. Thus a new era was born in combat tactics. I highly recommend this book. My grandmother told me what it was like for she was born and raised in England. Horrible, is how she described the sirens, blackouts, bombs exploding. As for myself, I just did not ask questions. Also two DeGrechie's in the family tree who served in WW2. Sadly the last one had passed away recently before I could track him down. They were all braver than I am.
Regulo, you asked about my friend's book. Her name is Janie Pendleton, and she's a Goodreads author; her profile is at http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/... . You two would probably have much in common! Her book is fiction (a first novel), but I think you might like it. It's titled The Gates to Love and War (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33... ).
Regulo, Thanks for the info on Massoud! Very interesting! When you were writing this book, how difficult was it to relive some of the events? Did you get any sort of closure by telling the stories of those heroes who gave their lives and yet many of us back here never knew of them as individuals?
Werner wrote: "Regulo, you asked about my friend's book. Her name is Janie Pendleton, and she's a Goodreads author; her profile is at http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/... . You two would..."
Hi Werner, Thank you for sharing the links on the author Janie Pendleton. I look forward to talking to her soon about her book releases! Looks like I need to get her books on my reading list..
Thank You,
Reggie
Hi Werner, Thank you for sharing the links on the author Janie Pendleton. I look forward to talking to her soon about her book releases! Looks like I need to get her books on my reading list..
Thank You,
Reggie
Gary wrote: "Regulo, Thanks for the info on Massoud! Very interesting!
When you were writing this book, how difficult was it to relive some of the events? Did you get any sort of closure by telling the stori..."
Hi Gary, Well, I guess I have to say, that there is not a day that I dont think about my experience spent in Afghanistan. It feels, as if it was just yesterday!
For the most part, I would say that it was difficult to relive certain events that took place in the war. In most part, there were some good times and bad times, and therefore, some individuals seem to block out the bad times!
As for writing my book Desperate Lands, I decided to focus and share, what we as Special Forces soldiers did, day to day, and saw in a combat zone.
I do not mention of our fallen heroes, due to the respect and privacy to the families, although there were a few from our unit. You will always remember the faces!
Look forward to talking to you again!
Regulo Zapata Jr.
When you were writing this book, how difficult was it to relive some of the events? Did you get any sort of closure by telling the stori..."
Hi Gary, Well, I guess I have to say, that there is not a day that I dont think about my experience spent in Afghanistan. It feels, as if it was just yesterday!
For the most part, I would say that it was difficult to relive certain events that took place in the war. In most part, there were some good times and bad times, and therefore, some individuals seem to block out the bad times!
As for writing my book Desperate Lands, I decided to focus and share, what we as Special Forces soldiers did, day to day, and saw in a combat zone.
I do not mention of our fallen heroes, due to the respect and privacy to the families, although there were a few from our unit. You will always remember the faces!
Look forward to talking to you again!
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Just got your book in mail and really like the writing style! Very upsetting to hear about the payroll glitches for soldiers called to duty. Has that since been fixed? Just amazing with today's technology that could happen.
Gary wrote: "Just got your book in mail and really like the writing style! Very upsetting to hear about the payroll glitches for soldiers called to duty. Has that since been fixed? Just amazing with today's te..."
Hey Gary, I Thank you for reading my book and I'm glad you enjoyed the readings. I hope you were able to get something out of the readings.
As I mentioned before, this is only a small piece of the bigger mosaic puzzel of U.S. and Foreign Special Operations Forces operating in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
I am sure these problems on payroll are now fixed. But during the initial period it took a while for certain soldiers to get their payroll issues fixed and corrected.
Gary, I look forward to talking to you some more!
Thank You,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hey Gary, I Thank you for reading my book and I'm glad you enjoyed the readings. I hope you were able to get something out of the readings.
As I mentioned before, this is only a small piece of the bigger mosaic puzzel of U.S. and Foreign Special Operations Forces operating in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
I am sure these problems on payroll are now fixed. But during the initial period it took a while for certain soldiers to get their payroll issues fixed and corrected.
Gary, I look forward to talking to you some more!
Thank You,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian wrote: "Much better in the U.S. for pensions that is for sure. I was wondering what has made the biggest difference to infiltrate the terrorists, technology, better intelligence or better training, all of ..."
Hi Brian, You had mentioned about a book called "When The Tigers Broke Free" by Roger Waters. You also mentioned about Devils Brigade units fighting the germans. This reminds me of an old movie called the "Devils Brigade" the first U.S.Special Forces unit created with the help of the Special Forces Canadians, and British Forces awesome film! A MUST SEE!
Look forward to talking to you again!
Thank You,
Regulo
Hi Brian, You had mentioned about a book called "When The Tigers Broke Free" by Roger Waters. You also mentioned about Devils Brigade units fighting the germans. This reminds me of an old movie called the "Devils Brigade" the first U.S.Special Forces unit created with the help of the Special Forces Canadians, and British Forces awesome film! A MUST SEE!
Look forward to talking to you again!
Thank You,
Regulo
I thought you may be interested in the history of U.S. Special Forces. "When The Tigers Broke Free" is a very factual and chilling song by bassist Roger Waters of the band Pink Floyd. Now I am interested in anyone who knows the movie you mentioned. In your opinion what has made the biggest difference in the successes of the prime objective for the U.S Special Forces, technology, better intelligence or better training? all of the above? Thanks! The very brave mission to rescue a female private is just one example of great intel, planning and skill of the U.S. Special Forces. I was in awe when the news broadcasted the details.
Regulo,What military books are your favorites? Do you have any particular memoirs you have enjoyed?
Brian wrote: "I thought you may be interested in the history of U.S. Special Forces. "When The Tigers Broke Free" is a very factual and chilling song by bassist Roger Waters of the band Pink Floyd. Now I am inte..."
Hi Brian, I would have to say that in modern battlefield with satellites, sensors, unmanned reconnaissance drones, and special operations personnel conducting strategic reconnaissance there is very little that commanders don't know.
When these units are backed by rapid reaction forces and technology, they cannot be defeated.
But the bottom line is the warrior who operates in using basic reconnaissance, stealth, weapons capabilities to his best advantage will be the winner, it may come at a high cost to the foot soldier.
Fire superiorty is important in a firefight!
Darkness belongs to the unit and warriors that has trained the most in it using night vision devices and understands the night is his friend!
Looking forward to talking to you some more.
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Brian, I would have to say that in modern battlefield with satellites, sensors, unmanned reconnaissance drones, and special operations personnel conducting strategic reconnaissance there is very little that commanders don't know.
When these units are backed by rapid reaction forces and technology, they cannot be defeated.
But the bottom line is the warrior who operates in using basic reconnaissance, stealth, weapons capabilities to his best advantage will be the winner, it may come at a high cost to the foot soldier.
Fire superiorty is important in a firefight!
Darkness belongs to the unit and warriors that has trained the most in it using night vision devices and understands the night is his friend!
Looking forward to talking to you some more.
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Gary wrote: "Regulo,
What military books are your favorites? Do you have any particular memoirs you have enjoyed?"
Hi Gary, I would have to say a book called Masters of Chaos by Linda Robinson. It's a very good book to read about the real secret history of the U.S. Special Forces and their missions.
This book will give you a quick glimpes of what these special forces warriors have been doing around the globe fighting the war on terror.
It will share with you operations executed back during the post-Vietnam generation to the present situation in Iraq, Afghanistan.
A must read for anyone interested on what U.S.Special Forces have been doing!
There is another book that I'm reading at this very moment, written by a warrior, author, friend and has been the best book I have ever read.
This individual was my mentorship and guidance in my becoming a special forces warrior. I'm not at liberty to give the name of the book yet, but will soon!
Hey Gary, Can you tell me what books you like to read on todays military? What interest you the most about these books?
Reggie
Linda Robinson
What military books are your favorites? Do you have any particular memoirs you have enjoyed?"
Hi Gary, I would have to say a book called Masters of Chaos by Linda Robinson. It's a very good book to read about the real secret history of the U.S. Special Forces and their missions.
This book will give you a quick glimpes of what these special forces warriors have been doing around the globe fighting the war on terror.
It will share with you operations executed back during the post-Vietnam generation to the present situation in Iraq, Afghanistan.
A must read for anyone interested on what U.S.Special Forces have been doing!
There is another book that I'm reading at this very moment, written by a warrior, author, friend and has been the best book I have ever read.
This individual was my mentorship and guidance in my becoming a special forces warrior. I'm not at liberty to give the name of the book yet, but will soon!
Hey Gary, Can you tell me what books you like to read on todays military? What interest you the most about these books?
Reggie
Linda Robinson
Mod
thanks Regulo! Your answers really helped me understand the different roles of a unified modern approach to battlefield tactics. I really believe that the Taliban and their allies could not be infiltrated since they do not use any communications except written messages and are always on the move. I was wrong. I am sure you heard of the recent U.S. air strike that resulted in talks with the Taliban. Those recon drones are something special for sure. One time the Isreali forces launched a bunch of them in an effort to provoke Syria to reveal their anti-aircraft missile sites. It worked amazingly well. Well worth the price of losing many of them for then the Israeli air force destroyed almost all the missle sites. Fascinating! Despite huge leaps in technology it is the foot soldier that has to do the most dangerous work. Overall, how effective do you think the effort to elminate or severely limit the Taliban and its allies has been? Could you foresee in the near future the capture or surrender of the Taliban?
Regulo,I really like to read books on the soldier pulled out of regular life and forced to confront the wartime situation. It just seems so daunting and the bravery needed so great. A great book I read was called "The Last True Story I'll Ever Tell: An Accidental Soldier's Account of the War in Iraq" and was written by John Crawford. I am also looking forward to reading Sole Survivor by Marcus Lutrell and My War: Killing Time in Iraq by Colby Buzzell.
Rick wrote: "have you read the books of James Jones- he was a "grunt private" during WWII and proud of it and tried to make his war trilogy from the Grunt's point of view"
Hi Rick, The book on James Jones sounds like a great book to read. Do you know what the actuall name of the book is called or the ISBN number on the book? I am sure its a fascinating story to read especially if its about grunts/Infantry in the battle field in world War II.
I just recently too, met a World War II, American hero, who was a pilot, who flew P-51 Mustangs and was shut down by the Germans near England and Europe and became a prisoner of war, until Gen.Pattons U.S.Army came to his rescue.
He just wrote a book called Now They Fly With Angels, by Edward J. Thorne. ISBN:9780974498621
I had the humble honor to be at his birthday and book signing last year in Dec 2009. It was his 90th birthday.
This guy was incredible as a soldier, and what he saw and did as a P-51 Mustang pilot during world war II.
I read his book and it was an excellent read. A MUST READ!
Look forward to your comments!
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Rick, The book on James Jones sounds like a great book to read. Do you know what the actuall name of the book is called or the ISBN number on the book? I am sure its a fascinating story to read especially if its about grunts/Infantry in the battle field in world War II.
I just recently too, met a World War II, American hero, who was a pilot, who flew P-51 Mustangs and was shut down by the Germans near England and Europe and became a prisoner of war, until Gen.Pattons U.S.Army came to his rescue.
He just wrote a book called Now They Fly With Angels, by Edward J. Thorne. ISBN:9780974498621
I had the humble honor to be at his birthday and book signing last year in Dec 2009. It was his 90th birthday.
This guy was incredible as a soldier, and what he saw and did as a P-51 Mustang pilot during world war II.
I read his book and it was an excellent read. A MUST READ!
Look forward to your comments!
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Gary wrote: "Regulo,
I really like to read books on the soldier pulled out of regular life and forced to confront the wartime situation. It just seems so daunting and the bravery needed so great. A great book..."
Hi Gary, I have read the book, "The Last True Story I'll Ever Tell: An Accidental Soldier's Account of the War in Iraq" by John Crawford.
It's an incredible story depicting the day to day work of a National Guard soldier as an Infantryman in Iraq.
The story is very well written and depicts the real life of an Infantry's soldiers life in the battlefield. The issues the problems the politics in the U.S. military.
A must read for anyone wanting to experience what it was like for an Infantry National Guard soldier in Iraq.
I have not read the book on Sole Survivor by Marcus Lutrell. It's a best seller and I need to get it on my reading list. Its an amazing story too. A must read!
Looking forward to your comments!
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
I really like to read books on the soldier pulled out of regular life and forced to confront the wartime situation. It just seems so daunting and the bravery needed so great. A great book..."
Hi Gary, I have read the book, "The Last True Story I'll Ever Tell: An Accidental Soldier's Account of the War in Iraq" by John Crawford.
It's an incredible story depicting the day to day work of a National Guard soldier as an Infantryman in Iraq.
The story is very well written and depicts the real life of an Infantry's soldiers life in the battlefield. The issues the problems the politics in the U.S. military.
A must read for anyone wanting to experience what it was like for an Infantry National Guard soldier in Iraq.
I have not read the book on Sole Survivor by Marcus Lutrell. It's a best seller and I need to get it on my reading list. Its an amazing story too. A must read!
Looking forward to your comments!
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian wrote: "thanks Regulo! Your answers really helped me understand the different roles of a unified modern approach to battlefield tactics. I really believe that the Taliban and their allies could not be infi..."
Hey Brain, I feel that the options for the Taliban and Al Qaeda is running out. The window is closing and the circle is getting tighter as the months go by.
Both Al Qaeda and Taliban insurgents have been losing several high commanders and leaders. The United States has been using Join Task Force Operations and High technology Intelligence collections by other foreign countires to help with the capture of Taliban, Al Qaeda forces.
From my understanding there is on-going U.S. and Taliban Negotiations and discussions to help the United States to oppose and keep radical/faction Taliban and Al Qaeda insurgents out of the cities and villages.
Although it will take a long time to see improvements in the coming months. This will have better tribal unity within the regions in Afghanistan hopefully!
Again winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people! It Takes time.
Looking forward to your comments!
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hey Brain, I feel that the options for the Taliban and Al Qaeda is running out. The window is closing and the circle is getting tighter as the months go by.
Both Al Qaeda and Taliban insurgents have been losing several high commanders and leaders. The United States has been using Join Task Force Operations and High technology Intelligence collections by other foreign countires to help with the capture of Taliban, Al Qaeda forces.
From my understanding there is on-going U.S. and Taliban Negotiations and discussions to help the United States to oppose and keep radical/faction Taliban and Al Qaeda insurgents out of the cities and villages.
Although it will take a long time to see improvements in the coming months. This will have better tribal unity within the regions in Afghanistan hopefully!
Again winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people! It Takes time.
Looking forward to your comments!
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Regulo and Brian,I am of the belief that Afghanastan is a lost cause as far as bringing stability and the only objective for us should be to ensure we can destroy any terrorists who use it as a base of operations. Maybe being at the WTC on 9/11 has made me only care about preventing another one, but that is what I feel.
Mod
Gary wrote: "Regulo and Brian,
I am of the belief that Afghanastan is a lost cause as far as bringing stability and the only objective for us should be to ensure we can destroy any terrorists who use it as a b..."
Hi Gary, Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this discussion! I would say that many people feel the way you do, so thats OKay!
Just Give War a Chance! It takes time to capture and destroy the enemy! I do believe that the United States and Foreign Special Operations forces are closing the circle on the terrorist.
A good example is look as to what happened a few days ago on the confirmed killing of Taliban Pakistan Terror leader Hakimullah Mehsud.
This is the pay back for the killings of several CIA agents in Afghanistan. Todays technology and use of drones and Special Operations Forces does work.
Read Article Source: Taliban Leader Killed in Strike
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/...
I look forward to your Thoughts & Comments!
Thank You,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
I am of the belief that Afghanastan is a lost cause as far as bringing stability and the only objective for us should be to ensure we can destroy any terrorists who use it as a b..."
Hi Gary, Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this discussion! I would say that many people feel the way you do, so thats OKay!
Just Give War a Chance! It takes time to capture and destroy the enemy! I do believe that the United States and Foreign Special Operations forces are closing the circle on the terrorist.
A good example is look as to what happened a few days ago on the confirmed killing of Taliban Pakistan Terror leader Hakimullah Mehsud.
This is the pay back for the killings of several CIA agents in Afghanistan. Todays technology and use of drones and Special Operations Forces does work.
Read Article Source: Taliban Leader Killed in Strike
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/...
I look forward to your Thoughts & Comments!
Thank You,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Rick wrote: "James Jones, whose daughter Kaylie is a Group Member and Author in her own right, wrote his debut novel- which turned out to be a blockbuster- FROM HERE TO ETERNITY - he then wrote THE THIN RED LIN..."
Hi Rick, Thank you for sharing this great information on this author and of the book. My hat goes out to this brilliant author for writing this great story. I have to put that book on my reading list.
I have not read the book called The Thin Red Line, but I have seen a film/movie called the "Thin Red Line." A story of Marines in the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II. An excellent story!
I Look forward to your Thoughts & Comments!
Thank you,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Rick, Thank you for sharing this great information on this author and of the book. My hat goes out to this brilliant author for writing this great story. I have to put that book on my reading list.
I have not read the book called The Thin Red Line, but I have seen a film/movie called the "Thin Red Line." A story of Marines in the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II. An excellent story!
I Look forward to your Thoughts & Comments!
Thank you,
Reggie
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Regulo wrote: "Rick wrote: "James Jones, whose daughter Kaylie is a Group Member and Author in her own right, wrote his debut novel- which turned out to be a blockbuster- FROM HERE TO ETERNITY - he then wrote THE..."I should add also that Kaylie Jones' recent memoir "Lies My Mother Never Told Me" was an amazing read. Really worth checking out.
Regulo,Have you ever heard of a book called "House to House: An Epic Memoir of War" by David Bellavia?
Mod
I respectfully disagree Gary. As a history professor at the local library pointed out with historical facts that if you cut the head off of one monster most of the time a worse monster takes the place. The youth in those countries need to learn not to hate. Generations upon generations are taught hate, hence 10 year olds with AK-47's. If the U.S./Canadian mission is just to destroy Al Qaeda and the Taliban, other terrorist will most certainly replace those as history has demonstrated. Educating tolerence is the only approach to slowly end terrorism.
Brian wrote: "I respectfully disagree Gary. As a history professor at the local library pointed out with historical facts that if you cut the head off of one monster most of the time a worse monster takes the pl..."Brian, I admit my opinion is based more on emotion than truly knowing all the facts and consequences. Overall, I just don't think you can talk poeple into not hating, so doing what you can to protect against the results is the next best thing.
Well, I hope your right. My wish is that the fighting comes to an end. A time will come when all troops will be able to come home. For many decades when a dictator was overthrown by forces in their own country or influence by others a worse dictator emerges. I do believe that a group of people can be taught not to hate. If this is not achieved there will always be war. There are at least 4 rebel forces in Iraq. A few of them will not negociate with the U.S. When the withdrawl happens there is a good chance that one of those militant groups will take Sadam's place. Regardless, I sure hope you are right, it is heartbreaking to see brave soldiers killed in the line of duty. It affects families, communities, moral, etc. It will be a great day when it all ends. Do not forget that the U.S. forces are teaching the Aftgan. forces to police themselves. That was tried before with South Vietnam and the results were miserable. Two years after all troops were withdrawn North Vietnam invaded the south easily.
Hi Regulo; the natural question I would have deriving from the last two posts is, is there education being taught of tolerence? I am compromised by what the media relates about the war. There are a number of rebel forces in Iraq, are any of them much to worry about? My opinions are always subject to change with better information. I would be more than happy that my above post would not be accurate. One thing I know is there is a big difference in what the media reports and actual facts. What is your opinion since you served in the war against terrorism?
Gary wrote: "Regulo wrote: "Rick wrote: "James Jones, whose daughter Kaylie is a Group Member and Author in her own right, wrote his debut novel- which turned out to be a blockbuster- FROM HERE TO ETERNITY - he..."
Hi Gary, Thank you for sharing book information on Kaylie Jones' recent memoir "Lies My Mother Never Told Me" I have not read this story yet. It sounds very interesting. I have to place it on my reading list.
Thanks
Regulo
Hi Gary, Thank you for sharing book information on Kaylie Jones' recent memoir "Lies My Mother Never Told Me" I have not read this story yet. It sounds very interesting. I have to place it on my reading list.
Thanks
Regulo
Gary wrote: "Regulo,
Have you ever heard of a book called "House to House: An Epic Memoir of War" by David Bellavia?
"
Hi Gary, Thanks for sharing this awesome book called House to House! Yes, I have heard of this book, its one of the Bestsellers.
An extraordinary story of Staff Sergeant Bellavia's account of the fierce 2004 fighting in Fallujah battle.
It's on my reading list! If I'm not mistaken his unit was known as the Devils Duce 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade an Infantry unit.
I was assigned to this unit years back. We were just grunts. Its a small community in the Infantry!
Thanks,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Have you ever heard of a book called "House to House: An Epic Memoir of War" by David Bellavia?
"
Hi Gary, Thanks for sharing this awesome book called House to House! Yes, I have heard of this book, its one of the Bestsellers.
An extraordinary story of Staff Sergeant Bellavia's account of the fierce 2004 fighting in Fallujah battle.
It's on my reading list! If I'm not mistaken his unit was known as the Devils Duce 2nd Battalion, 2nd Brigade an Infantry unit.
I was assigned to this unit years back. We were just grunts. Its a small community in the Infantry!
Thanks,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Rick wrote: "it took James Jones 4 years to write his first novel- which became- FROM HERE TO ETERNITY- which was later made into a film - he also worked as a consulatant on war films to make sure of the accura..."
Hi Rick, great to hear from you again. I definitley would like to see this film. Sounds like a great film to watch. I'm going to look for it od DVD.
Thanks,
Regulo
Hi Rick, great to hear from you again. I definitley would like to see this film. Sounds like a great film to watch. I'm going to look for it od DVD.
Thanks,
Regulo
Brian wrote: "I respectfully disagree Gary. As a history professor at the local library pointed out with historical facts that if you cut the head off of one monster most of the time a worse monster takes the pl..."
Hello Brian, Gary, Rick, Well guys I have real mix feelings about this discussion. I do believe and agree to a certain point that the youth in those countries are exposed to a lot of hate, violence, horrors and exposed to their family deaths.
I do agree, that youths in these countries, who have witness their families being killed by U.S. or Foreign Coalition Forces does create generations of hate. Which does make it harder to deal with.
I do agree, that at one point the head of the snake needs to be cut in order to destroy its organizational leadership structure for us to win!
Its hard to win the hearts and minds of the people!
Thanks,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hello Brian, Gary, Rick, Well guys I have real mix feelings about this discussion. I do believe and agree to a certain point that the youth in those countries are exposed to a lot of hate, violence, horrors and exposed to their family deaths.
I do agree, that youths in these countries, who have witness their families being killed by U.S. or Foreign Coalition Forces does create generations of hate. Which does make it harder to deal with.
I do agree, that at one point the head of the snake needs to be cut in order to destroy its organizational leadership structure for us to win!
Its hard to win the hearts and minds of the people!
Thanks,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian wrote: "Well, I hope your right. My wish is that the fighting comes to an end. A time will come when all troops will be able to come home. For many decades when a dictator was overthrown by forces in their..."
Hi Brian, I agree with you, Sometimes war never turns out the way its planned to be executed. This is going to be a difficult war for all U.S. and Europen Foreign Coalition Forces.
It will be interesting to see what happens in the next one year of the war. War and battles take time especially this type of unconventional Warfare, Counter-insurgency type operations.
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Hi Brian, I agree with you, Sometimes war never turns out the way its planned to be executed. This is going to be a difficult war for all U.S. and Europen Foreign Coalition Forces.
It will be interesting to see what happens in the next one year of the war. War and battles take time especially this type of unconventional Warfare, Counter-insurgency type operations.
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian wrote: "Hi Regulo; the natural question I would have deriving from the last two posts is, is there education being taught of tolerence? I am compromised by what the media relates about the war. There are a..."
Brian, I agree with your thoughts! My opinion is that when fighting this type of war in counter-insurgency, and Foreign Internal Defense Operations, it takes time for the U.S. & European Coalition Forces to learn the areas they operate in and to understand the native peoples habits.
It takes time to train the Afghan & Iraq forces, due to culture, different religions. Yes, its a difficult war and as I said before battle plans dont go as you want them to happen. It changes quickly in counter-insurgency operations!
There is No room for Politics or Politicians in War. Give War a Chance!Let the military do what they need to do, to get the hell out of these wars!
I never saw the media in the Area of Operations I was in, near the Afghanistan/Pakistan borders.
On my book "Desperate Lands" it will give you a glimpse of what we were facing in Afghanistan.
Thanks,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
Brian, I agree with your thoughts! My opinion is that when fighting this type of war in counter-insurgency, and Foreign Internal Defense Operations, it takes time for the U.S. & European Coalition Forces to learn the areas they operate in and to understand the native peoples habits.
It takes time to train the Afghan & Iraq forces, due to culture, different religions. Yes, its a difficult war and as I said before battle plans dont go as you want them to happen. It changes quickly in counter-insurgency operations!
There is No room for Politics or Politicians in War. Give War a Chance!Let the military do what they need to do, to get the hell out of these wars!
I never saw the media in the Area of Operations I was in, near the Afghanistan/Pakistan borders.
On my book "Desperate Lands" it will give you a glimpse of what we were facing in Afghanistan.
Thanks,
Regulo
Regulo Zapata Jr.
I agree Regulo; it is a difficult subject and only time will tell the outcome. My thoughts on the war is not meant to undermine the bravery and sacrafices made by yourself and your commrades or the U.S. Special Forces. I feel every effort must be made in those regions with the hopeful result of the two major terrorist groups surrender. There probably will always be rebels. However, many small rebel groups pose no threat to the U.S. or Canada. With the Taliban and Al Qaeda militant forces neautralized then people in both countries will relax more. That is the objective.
Mod
Yes, Rick! Right on the money! This political correctness is a real problem. That ideology is dangerous thinking. In WW1 and 2 there were no half measures. I think that if military force is deemed necessary than a war is fought to be won. In our present situation a man like Dr. Henry A. Kissinger is needed. He would have sold out his own mother if it meant the objective to stop the spread of communism at that time helped. Anyways, in a recent poll of "political correctness" most Americans agree it is a formidable enemy restricting American armed forces. In war civilian causualties are cosequences that is a reality. The cold hard fact is to limit civilian causualties and win a war based on an objective makes the task much more difficult. Isreal had no problem with "political correctness" when their forces invaded to destroy the infrastruture of Haasbala(?).
Well, I'll play devil's advocate and share my opinion. The idea that civilian casualties are to be avoided in war doesn't derive from modern notions of "political correctness." Rather, it's a very long-standing part of Christian "just war" doctrine, going back to Augustine, and taken as normative in the military tradition of every civilized country for centuries. It was not generally abandoned, in what we used to call the "civilized" world, until the 20th century, under the influence of Darwinism and secular humanism with their attendant rejection of the idea that individual human life has transcendent worth. The German military were historically the leaders in the new trend; much of America's own military tradition was scrapped and replaced in the 20th century by politicians and bureaucrats enamored of the supposedly "efficient" and "realistic" German model. (Why losing two world wars qualifies Germany to be a military model for anybody has never been explained to my satisfaction.)
THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
Books mentioned in this topic
Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through The Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier (other topics)Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through The Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier (other topics)
Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through The Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier (other topics)
Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through The Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier (other topics)
Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through The Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Regulo Zapata (other topics)Regulo Zapata (other topics)
Regulo Zapata (other topics)
Regulo Zapata (other topics)
Regulo Zapata (other topics)
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Regulo Zapata Jr, US Army (Retired) joined the Special Forces in 1974. Since then he has participated in numerous operations in several countries. Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata was a Special Forces Operations Sergeant with twenty-eight years of service with the US Army. Sergeant Zapata served as an enlisted soldier in the United States Army Special Operations Forces with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Rangers Airborne, 5th Special Forces Group, and 19th Special Forces Group while on active duty. He graduated from the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center School, Army Special Forces Operations and Intelligence Course, United States Army Ranger School and many other Secret Special Forces Courses available to a Green Beret, Army Special Forces enlisted soldier. Regulo Zapata Jr, now lives in Gilroy, California, USA.
AUTHOR PROFILE
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Book: Desperate Lands: The War on Terror Through The
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21...
Eyes of a Special Forces Soldier
Author: Regulo Zapata Jr.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21562...
Genre: History, Non-Fiction
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Nadores Publishing & Research (October 17, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0979784700
ISBN-13: 9780979784705
Description:
From The Front Lines of The War on Terror:
DESPERATE LANDS is the unprecedented story of U.S. Army Special Forces Soldiers and the missions they have carried out while fighting the war on terror in Horn of Africa and in Afghanistan.
The book is unique and timely, in that it tells the compelling story of our nation's struggle and of its soldiers fighting a new and different war never fought before-a Global War on Terror.
The true story comes at a time when our nation has divided feelings and opinions about the war-a division that exists among both government leaders and the American people.
These pages offer a different perspective-that of the lower enlisted soldiers-reflecting their personal experience in combat zones in Africa and Afghanistan as they witness and experience the fog of war.
The author-Special Forces Master Sergeant Regulo Zapata, Jr.- shares his extraordinary journey through ancient and desperate lands at the front lines of this on going war.
Here are true stories-of sacrifice, bravery, excitement, horror, anger, tedium, fear, camaraderie, and more - a firsthand look behind the headlines at the reality of the exceptional and difficult challenges U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers face as they defend America against the terrorist threat.
Website Recommendations:
Amazon Customer Book Reviews:
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21...
Amazon Customer Book Reviews:
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21...
Book Publisher:
http://www.nadorespublishing.com/
Goodreads Author Profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/regulozapata
Interest: My Family, Movies, Reading, Writing, Film ScreenWriting, Photography, Hiking, Kayaking, Concert, Music, Dancing, Politics, water rafting.
Please, feel free to ask me any questions!
Thank You for stopping by!
Reggie
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21...