Sky Men

Description

Seventy years ago the army's elite air assault force, the Parachute Regiment was formed, tough and well-trained, designed to fight hazardous operations behind enemy lines, with little or no backup. These are the 'Sky Men'. Dropping into the middle of enemy territory, these British, American, German and Russian soldiers engage in gruelling combat in the most dangerous conflict zones around the world. Robert Kershaw, an ex-Parachute Regiment officer, reveals the history of these airborne forces, and their role during the most dramatic battles of the twentieth century. He finds out what makes them tick, what drives a 'Sky Man' to take these extraordinary risks, and what marks these sky warriors out from ordinary soldiers. Based on exclusive interviews with soldiers from around the world, as well as letters and diaries, Sky Men is full of vivid personalities and nail-biting action.

Reviews

'Historian Robert Kershaw uses interviews, diaries and letters to give a unique insight into day-to-day life during the conflict ... a moving testimony' -- Daily Mail on Never Surrender 'A highly original and valuable piece of military history. It ought to transform our idea of the Second World War, it has mine...a marvellous and origninal book based on the most detailed research.' -- Sir John Keegan on Tank Men 'A triumph ... a really fine piece of work' -- Richard Holmes on Tank Men 'Very well written, with excellent photographs, it's an indispensable addition to the body of knowledge about modern warfare.' -- South Wales Argus on Tank Men 20080329

Author description

Robert Kershaw, who until recently held a senior position within NATO, joined the Parachute Regiment in 1973 and has served actively in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and the first Gulf War, for which he was awarded the US Bronze Star. He has written four books of military history, starred in numerous TV documentaries and has contributed to the Daily Mail, The Times, the Sunday Times, the Daily Telegraph and the Sunday Telegraph.