An Ordinary Soldier cover art

An Ordinary Soldier

Afghanistan: A Ferocious Enemy. A Bloody Conflict. One Man's Impossible Mission

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An Ordinary Soldier

By: Doug Beattie, Philip Gomm
Narrated by: Drew Dillon
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About this listen

An Ordinary Soldier offers an extraordinary insight into the mission in Afghanistan and, crucially, the relationship between British troops and the Afghans they serve alongside.

On 11th September 2006 - five years after the attacks on the Twin Towers - a modern day Rorke's Drift was played out in the town of Garmsir, known as the Taliban gateway to Helmand Province. 40-year-old Capt. Doug Beattie of the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Regiment was charged with the mission to help retake Garmsir from the Taliban. His commanders said it would take two days; it actually took two weeks of exhausting, bloody conflict. For his repeated bravery Doug Beattie was decorated with the Military Cross. This is Beattie's personal story of being what he modestly calls 'an ordinary soldier' - someone who balances being a loving father and husband with that of fighting in the world's most hostile place. It demands to be heard.

©2009 Doug Beattie (P)2020 W F Howes Afghan & Iraq Wars Military Military & War

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All stars
Most relevant  
I actually felt guilty having read this book as it almost became repetitive in the sense that Doug Beattie MC seemed to be under intense fire for the duration of the book - how he never got hit I just dont know. Real story about real people fighting a war in a foreign land - throughly enjoyed and would recommend.

A True Legend of a Man

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Well documented conflict, lots off action and great detail, I would follow you anywhere Mr Beattie a true leader

Brilliant memoir

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Truly amazing story, I laughed and cried the whole way through it and couldn't put it down

Amazing eye opener

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Told in a matter of fact style without the drama you usually get because those need a bit more jazz. Not this

Amazing

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Fantastic book without doubt one of the best books written on war, never glorifying what had to be done written with modesty and honesty, some amusing bits where black humour helped but not hiding the true horror of armed conflict, as for the narrator like the book bloody excellent great style and relayed the events perfectly all in all a book that l could listen to time and time again as I said fantastic

Great Story one of the best books l have listened

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This is a cracking story, good tempo, good detail, well written. But spoilt by the narration, lacking in emotion, wether it be excitement, urgency or sadness, all the same tone. And, yet again, another narrator of military books that doesn’t do their research regarding pronunciations and acronyms, it’s so infuriating!! PLEASE SORT IT OUT AUDIBLE! Just need to ask any squaddie how to pronounce certain phrases, or how about asking the author himself?!!

Poor narration AGAIN.

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Samuel served in Afghanistan 2009. He came home a changed man. I have heard the " 1000 yard stare" thing from a Vietnam war movie and I have witnessed it first hand.
This excellent and well written account has really helped me to understand what he went through. Even if you have no connection to the military, this is an excellent story of an ordinary soldier leading others through hell.
I sincerely hope we do not fall into the same trap as greeted the Vietnam veterans. These people have all served their country that many of us may struggle to fully comprehend.

Helped my understand my son

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This is an incredible story of an "ordinary soldier". This really shows the true story of war.

Outstanding

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Outstanding story of a young man who devoted his life and capabilities to recent world events. He comes across as a humble soul who cared for human beings, did not relish the need to fight, take life, or see others give up theirs. He, thankfully, received some recognition, the Military Cross, but truly was little for his professional life in service to his Country, Regiment, and Queen.

Ordinary??

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It's a great book and well-written. My only complaint is the inaccurate pronunciation of military acronyms. Each letter is read out, for example M.K. instead of "mark" or I.S.A.F instead of "eyesaf." It's a minor issue, but it really bothers me.

Brings the battle to life

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