A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A brilliant read., 19 Jun 2008
I'm currently reading Damien Lewis's book 'Bloody Heroes' and this is the book that influenced me to get 'Bloody Heroes'. The writing by Damien lewis is utterly compelling and audastic, he captures the sheer horror of being captured and held hostage to the adreniline fueled assault on the rebels base by a SAS/SBS force. Recommend this book and I also reccomend 'Bloody Heroes' By the same author.

Well crafted writing. Enjoyed it., 17 May 2008
The way in which OCD is written, to my mind, is a cross between Terence Strong at his best for the thriller aspect, and Michael Herr (Dispatches) for his ability to move in close to the guys and then zoom out again to paint the broader geopolitical picture.
Its obvious Damien has had face to face meetings with the lads, and seen a bit himself.
I don't have a problem with the attempt at breathing life into the characters; it would obviously have been proof-read by the lads mentioned before printing, and D. wouldn't have wanted to burn that particular bridge by upsetting them with BS. After all, the activities of special forces is where the market is. And yes, there is a BFG (read Cameron Spence's Iraq book to meet him.)

The story needed to be told, but it's the manner in which it's been told that can grate..., 06 May 2008
The book is a solid read, and on a subject which needed telling, but I do wish Lewis had merely 'reported' the exchanges between the troopers on the ground and not tried to re-enact/reconstruct them, almost verbatim (and annoyingly in the vernacular).

Like others I was tempted to skip whole passages whilst Kiwi (who had the cadences here of a South African and not a New Zealander), 'Jimmy the Cockney' and the Big Scottish Monster were bantering-off each other.

Only a minor gripe, but I feel that, in the initial stages of the book, more coverage of the reasons leading to Britain's involvement in Sierra Leone (i.e. Op Palliser being green-lit) could have been accorded the reader - in total contrast to the Analysis section of the book, which is spectacularly well researched, lucid and devastating in its damning indictment of the UN's hopelessly outmoded, inefficient and ultimately completely ineffective deployment, structure and mandating.

The section on the (it is to be hoped for) considered future use of Private Military Companies (PMCs) is sense incarnate: as the UN can no longer sit idly-by and watch (Angola, Rwanda et al) millions of innocents be slaughtered whilst merely wringing its hands whilst intoning "how disappointed we are..." whilst rebel and other bandit groups in Africa (and elsewhere) have unbridled free rein to butcher at will.

There's an old Regiment saying that they play by Big Boys' Rules: and the content of this book leaves you in no doubt that they they are deadly serious in that sentiment.

In complete contrast to the US Rangers and Delta Force débâcle in Mogadishu, even when not fighting in ideal conditions, the books is a textbook example of how a mission can succeed, and Lewis is to be congratulated on his ability to report obvious first-hand accounts of some of the men on the ground.



Not good, 27 Dec 2007
Whilst the story is gripping and no doubt well researched, by the author's admission some of the details especially surrounding the special forces is entirely fictional. As mentioned by another reviewer, the conversations between troopers is downright dire. I can only assume this is where the author ran out of imaginative dialogue to put down on paper. To cap it all off towards the end of the book the author switches from past tense to present tense. Why on earth this is done i have no idea as it completely breaks the narrative flow and adds nothing to the story. It would have been a lot better to stick to the known facts than to start imagining godawful dialogue to put into the story.

When's the film coming out?, 06 Sep 2007
I agree with most of what has been said by previous reviewers. Yes the depiction of some the dialogue is annoying, and yes Lewis does better when he sticks to writing about the operation itself, the build-up and the aftermath. But overall this is a terrific book, and the title - isn't that nabbed from Blackadder Goes Forth?

What I especially like is some of the questions Lewis raises around the periphery of the incident:
- what was the role played by the Jordanian UN troops - were the Rangers set up by their supposed allies?
- why did Martial seemingly take such a stupid risk as to drive out to 'visit' WSB territory?
- having done so why did he keep his convoy in such a close formation that it was easily captured?
- which leads inevitably to the question - were the Rangers sacrificial lambs? Was the whole thing a set-up by British Army command to give us an excuse to go in and administer a severe kicking to Kallay and his thugs?

We'll never know, and speculation can be odious - but these are the hints of conspiracy that would make this a great movie. Ioan Gruffudd as Major Martial and Robert Carlyle as SAS trooper Jimmy? Bring it on!

A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A brilliant read., 19 Jun 2008
I'm currently reading Damien Lewis's book 'Bloody Heroes' and this is the book that influenced me to get 'Bloody Heroes'. The writing by Damien lewis is utterly compelling and audastic, he captures the sheer horror of being captured and held hostage to the adreniline fueled assault on the rebels base by a SAS/SBS force. Recommend this book and I also reccomend 'Bloody Heroes' By the same author.

Well crafted writing. Enjoyed it., 17 May 2008
The way in which OCD is written, to my mind, is a cross between Terence Strong at his best for the thriller aspect, and Michael Herr (Dispatches) for his ability to move in close to the guys and then zoom out again to paint the broader geopolitical picture.
Its obvious Damien has had face to face meetings with the lads, and seen a bit himself.
I don't have a problem with the attempt at breathing life into the characters; it would obviously have been proof-read by the lads mentioned before printing, and D. wouldn't have wanted to burn that particular bridge by upsetting them with BS. After all, the activities of special forces is where the market is. And yes, there is a BFG (read Cameron Spence's Iraq book to meet him.)

The story needed to be told, but it's the manner in which it's been told that can grate..., 06 May 2008
The book is a solid read, and on a subject which needed telling, but I do wish Lewis had merely 'reported' the exchanges between the troopers on the ground and not tried to re-enact/reconstruct them, almost verbatim (and annoyingly in the vernacular).

Like others I was tempted to skip whole passages whilst Kiwi (who had the cadences here of a South African and not a New Zealander), 'Jimmy the Cockney' and the Big Scottish Monster were bantering-off each other.

Only a minor gripe, but I feel that, in the initial stages of the book, more coverage of the reasons leading to Britain's involvement in Sierra Leone (i.e. Op Palliser being green-lit) could have been accorded the reader - in total contrast to the Analysis section of the book, which is spectacularly well researched, lucid and devastating in its damning indictment of the UN's hopelessly outmoded, inefficient and ultimately completely ineffective deployment, structure and mandating.

The section on the (it is to be hoped for) considered future use of Private Military Companies (PMCs) is sense incarnate: as the UN can no longer sit idly-by and watch (Angola, Rwanda et al) millions of innocents be slaughtered whilst merely wringing its hands whilst intoning "how disappointed we are..." whilst rebel and other bandit groups in Africa (and elsewhere) have unbridled free rein to butcher at will.

There's an old Regiment saying that they play by Big Boys' Rules: and the content of this book leaves you in no doubt that they they are deadly serious in that sentiment.

In complete contrast to the US Rangers and Delta Force débâcle in Mogadishu, even when not fighting in ideal conditions, the books is a textbook example of how a mission can succeed, and Lewis is to be congratulated on his ability to report obvious first-hand accounts of some of the men on the ground.



Not good, 27 Dec 2007
Whilst the story is gripping and no doubt well researched, by the author's admission some of the details especially surrounding the special forces is entirely fictional. As mentioned by another reviewer, the conversations between troopers is downright dire. I can only assume this is where the author ran out of imaginative dialogue to put down on paper. To cap it all off towards the end of the book the author switches from past tense to present tense. Why on earth this is done i have no idea as it completely breaks the narrative flow and adds nothing to the story. It would have been a lot better to stick to the known facts than to start imagining godawful dialogue to put into the story.

When's the film coming out?, 06 Sep 2007
I agree with most of what has been said by previous reviewers. Yes the depiction of some the dialogue is annoying, and yes Lewis does better when he sticks to writing about the operation itself, the build-up and the aftermath. But overall this is a terrific book, and the title - isn't that nabbed from Blackadder Goes Forth?

What I especially like is some of the questions Lewis raises around the periphery of the incident:
- what was the role played by the Jordanian UN troops - were the Rangers set up by their supposed allies?
- why did Martial seemingly take such a stupid risk as to drive out to 'visit' WSB territory?
- having done so why did he keep his convoy in such a close formation that it was easily captured?
- which leads inevitably to the question - were the Rangers sacrificial lambs? Was the whole thing a set-up by British Army command to give us an excuse to go in and administer a severe kicking to Kallay and his thugs?

We'll never know, and speculation can be odious - but these are the hints of conspiracy that would make this a great movie. Ioan Gruffudd as Major Martial and Robert Carlyle as SAS trooper Jimmy? Bring it on!

The most explosive untrue war story of the 21st century, 29 Sep 2008
This book isn't quite sure whether it wants to be a novel or a 'true' story. As a novel it's not bad but it is true only in the sense that it is based around true events with most of the narrative invented by the author. How, for example, could he know what the Taliban/Al Qaeda were saying to each other?
The battle scene in the fort is good - apart from the idea that an SBS operator would even try headshots to shoot three enemy while they were scaling a ladder!? And the scene where SBS and Northern Alliance soldiers ran into a minefield which, somehow, the NA soldiers didn't know about although they were stationed at the fort is laughable. [The prisoners could never have had the time or opportunity to have laid a minefield]. There is a bizarre episode where CIA Bob impresses Mat and the other SBS with his knowledge of Richard the Lionheart and Saladin - except the author thinks Richard never got further than Syria and Saladin had something to do with the Moorish conquest of Spain. This is sloppy research at its worst.

The use of the word 'mate' in every other sentence the SBS spoke was irritating in the extreme and totally artificial. As was the idea that Royal Marines SBS ranks would address the senior US officer at base camp as 'mate'. He also writes, "The enemy fighters had somehow worked out how to fire their RPGs at a forty-five-degree angle, so that the grenades acted something like mortar rounds". Again, an example of lazy composition: how could he not guess that they might have 'somehow' worked this out when fighting hundreds of thousands of Russians for year after year?
The inaccuracy and sloppiness in the book is also reflected in the photographs which are, presumably, used to add authenticity to the story. One picture of SBS/SAS roping onto the target ship MV Nisha shows them on a day with blue skies and white clouds. The second picture of the same event is shown on a day, heavily overcast with grey clouds. Also the Naka Valley observation post is shown as being set amongst conifers, which at 12,000ft would have been above the upper limit for trees.

The Epilogue gives a sound, objective analysis of the background to the incident - it is a pity he did not bother to employ the same discipline when writing the book. As a 'war story' it's not a bad read - but as a 'true' story it falls way short of a reasonable standard.

Another reviewer mentioned that SBS should stand for Special Boat Squadron - but the author did get this right. The name was changed to Special Boat Service at the same time non-Royal Marines were allowed to join for the first time - and when the motto was changed from 'Not By Strength, By Guile' to 'By Strength and By Guile'

Bloody incredible, 24 May 2008
It would be very easy to oversimplify the efforts that this author has captured on behalf of the boys that are out there doing the stuff that we mortals dream we'd be good enough or brave enough to do.
This book did many things for me, it excited, thrilled exhilarated, made me proud angry, ashamed and sobered me up when I was drunk on the thrill of war. The storyteller clearly has a talent for telling someone elses tale so very well, but above all I was humbled.

I have been interested in special forces and warfare for years and have to say hat his was one of the best of the special activity stuff I have read. Not least because to get an insight into the SBS is quite difficult. Highly recommended and well received by all those I pass it to. But more than all of that a great story of the heroes that the UK produces. Sad that events went down as described but needless to say our boys showed phenomenal skill and courage in the face of a bloody incredible enemy.

S.B.S., 17 May 2008
Damien Lewis is a great author, But please get facts correct!! I served for nine years in the Royal Marines Commandos, at that time the S.B.S. was part of the Corps of Royal Marines not the army! In his book " Bloody Heroes " Damien makes no mention this. He does however correctly state the S.B.S. base is at Poole in Dorset. ( this also the base of the R.M. landing craft squadrons ) S.B.S. stands for Special Boat Squadron not Special Boat Service.in his book on page 4 Damien refers to a basic grade S.B.S. rank as Trooper!not correct! The basic R.M. rank is MARINE either 1st or 2nd class. For further information please the book " The SBS Special Boat Squadron " by Philip Warner. ( my copy displays the Royal Marines crest on the front cover)

SBS - Ace Quad Bike Drivers Us!, 05 Mar 2008
An amazing and utterly compelling read.

Not just a book about the seige at Qala-i-junghi Fortress, Afghanistan but also deals with an Operation to storm a cargo ship mid ocean, on its way to London, post 11.09.01 and also setting up of an arduous OP overlooking the Naka Valley in Afghanistan.

All three Operations are linked by the central S.B.S Operatives who are involved in each.

Whatever your take on the issues with Afghanistan and the politics involved, you cannot help but be full of admiration for these men that do the hard things that are required of them with such skill, determination and loyalty to each other.

Check out the footage on youtube (search: SBS Afghanistan)!

British Special Forces Do not mess about.



'Outstanding' Bloody Heroes, 06 Sep 2007
This is an absolute must, fast paced, intriguing, end to end action.

An Inspirational story about a tight-knit SBS team who act on a terrorist threat in the UK, which ultimately leads them to the harsh plains of Afghanistan where they come face to face with 500 battle hardened Al Qaeda and Taliban fighters at the Qala-I-Janghi (fort of war).

It shows complete determination and professionalism that these human warriors possess.

This is such a great read, I read cover to cover in just a day and a half.

Don't just read this review go and order a copy now and see for yourself, you will not be disappointed.

A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A brilliant read., 19 Jun 2008
I'm currently reading Damien Lewis's book 'Bloody Heroes' and this is the book that influenced me to get 'Bloody Heroes'. The writing by Damien lewis is utterly compelling and audastic, he captures the sheer horror of being captured and held hostage to the adreniline fueled assault on the rebels base by a SAS/SBS force. Recommend this book and I also reccomend 'Bloody Heroes' By the same author.

Well crafted writing. Enjoyed it., 17 May 2008
The way in which OCD is written, to my mind, is a cross between Terence Strong at his best for the thriller aspect, and Michael Herr (Dispatches) for his ability to move in close to the guys and then zoom out again to paint the broader geopolitical picture.
Its obvious Damien has had face to face meetings with the lads, and seen a bit himself.
I don't have a problem with the attempt at breathing life into the characters; it would obviously have been proof-read by the lads mentioned before printing, and D. wouldn't have wanted to burn that particular bridge by upsetting them with BS. After all, the activities of special forces is where the market is. And yes, there is a BFG (read Cameron Spence's Iraq book to meet him.)

The story needed to be told, but it's the manner in which it's been told that can grate..., 06 May 2008
The book is a solid read, and on a subject which needed telling, but I do wish Lewis had merely 'reported' the exchanges between the troopers on the ground and not tried to re-enact/reconstruct them, almost verbatim (and annoyingly in the vernacular).

Like others I was tempted to skip whole passages whilst Kiwi (who had the cadences here of a South African and not a New Zealander), 'Jimmy the Cockney' and the Big Scottish Monster were bantering-off each other.

Only a minor gripe, but I feel that, in the initial stages of the book, more coverage of the reasons leading to Britain's involvement in Sierra Leone (i.e. Op Palliser being green-lit) could have been accorded the reader - in total contrast to the Analysis section of the book, which is spectacularly well researched, lucid and devastating in its damning indictment of the UN's hopelessly outmoded, inefficient and ultimately completely ineffective deployment, structure and mandating.

The section on the (it is to be hoped for) considered future use of Private Military Companies (PMCs) is sense incarnate: as the UN can no longer sit idly-by and watch (Angola, Rwanda et al) millions of innocents be slaughtered whilst merely wringing its hands whilst intoning "how disappointed we are..." whilst rebel and other bandit groups in Africa (and elsewhere) have unbridled free rein to butcher at will.

There's an old Regiment saying that they play by Big Boys' Rules: and the content of this book leaves you in no doubt that they they are deadly serious in that sentiment.

In complete contrast to the US Rangers and Delta Force débâcle in Mogadishu, even when not fighting in ideal conditions, the books is a textbook example of how a mission can succeed, and Lewis is to be congratulated on his ability to report obvious first-hand accounts of some of the men on the ground.



Not good, 27 Dec 2007
Whilst the story is gripping and no doubt well researched, by the author's admission some of the details especially surrounding the special forces is entirely fictional. As mentioned by another reviewer, the conversations between troopers is downright dire. I can only assume this is where the author ran out of imaginative dialogue to put down on paper. To cap it all off towards the end of the book the author switches from past tense to present tense. Why on earth this is done i have no idea as it completely breaks the narrative flow and adds nothing to the story. It would have been a lot better to stick to the known facts than to start imagining godawful dialogue to put into the story.

When's the film coming out?, 06 Sep 2007
I agree with most of what has been said by previous reviewers. Yes the depiction of some the dialogue is annoying, and yes Lewis does better when he sticks to writing about the operation itself, the build-up and the aftermath. But overall this is a terrific book, and the title - isn't that nabbed from Blackadder Goes Forth?

What I especially like is some of the questions Lewis raises around the periphery of the incident:
- what was the role played by the Jordanian UN troops - were the Rangers set up by their supposed allies?
- why did Martial seemingly take such a stupid risk as to drive out to 'visit' WSB territory?
- having done so why did he keep his convoy in such a close formation that it was easily captured?
- which leads inevitably to the question - were the Rangers sacrificial lambs? Was the whole thing a set-up by British Army command to give us an excuse to go in and administer a severe kicking to Kallay and his thugs?

We'll never know, and speculation can be odious - but these are the hints of conspiracy that would make this a great movie. Ioan Gruffudd as Major Martial and Robert Carlyle as SAS trooper Jimmy? Bring it on!

The most explosive untrue war story of the 21st century, 29 Sep 2008
This book isn't quite sure whether it wants to be a novel or a 'true' story. As a novel it's not bad but it is true only in the sense that it is based around true events with most of the narrative invented by the author. How, for example, could he know what the Taliban/Al Qaeda were saying to each other?
The battle scene in the fort is good - apart from the idea that an SBS operator would even try headshots to shoot three enemy while they were scaling a ladder!? And the scene where SBS and Northern Alliance soldiers ran into a minefield which, somehow, the NA soldiers didn't know about although they were stationed at the fort is laughable. [The prisoners could never have had the time or opportunity to have laid a minefield]. There is a bizarre episode where CIA Bob impresses Mat and the other SBS with his knowledge of Richard the Lionheart and Saladin - except the author thinks Richard never got further than Syria and Saladin had something to do with the Moorish conquest of Spain. This is sloppy research at its worst.

The use of the word 'mate' in every other sentence the SBS spoke was irritating in the extreme and totally artificial. As was the idea that Royal Marines SBS ranks would address the senior US officer at base camp as 'mate'. He also writes, "The enemy fighters had somehow worked out how to fire their RPGs at a forty-five-degree angle, so that the grenades acted something like mortar rounds". Again, an example of lazy composition: how could he not guess that they might have 'somehow' worked this out when fighting hundreds of thousands of Russians for year after year?
The inaccuracy and sloppiness in the book is also reflected in the photographs which are, presumably, used to add authenticity to the story. One picture of SBS/SAS roping onto the target ship MV Nisha shows them on a day with blue skies and white clouds. The second picture of the same event is shown on a day, heavily overcast with grey clouds. Also the Naka Valley observation post is shown as being set amongst conifers, which at 12,000ft would have been above the upper limit for trees.

The Epilogue gives a sound, objective analysis of the background to the incident - it is a pity he did not bother to employ the same discipline when writing the book. As a 'war story' it's not a bad read - but as a 'true' story it falls way short of a reasonable standard.

Another reviewer mentioned that SBS should stand for Special Boat Squadron - but the author did get this right. The name was changed to Special Boat Service at the same time non-Royal Marines were allowed to join for the first time - and when the motto was changed from 'Not By Strength, By Guile' to 'By Strength and By Guile'

Bloody incredible, 24 May 2008
It would be very easy to oversimplify the efforts that this author has captured on behalf of the boys that are out there doing the stuff that we mortals dream we'd be good enough or brave enough to do.
This book did many things for me, it excited, thrilled exhilarated, made me proud angry, ashamed and sobered me up when I was drunk on the thrill of war. The storyteller clearly has a talent for telling someone elses tale so very well, but above all I was humbled.

I have been interested in special forces and warfare for years and have to say hat his was one of the best of the special activity stuff I have read. Not least because to get an insight into the SBS is quite difficult. Highly recommended and well received by all those I pass it to. But more than all of that a great story of the heroes that the UK produces. Sad that events went down as described but needless to say our boys showed phenomenal skill and courage in the face of a bloody incredible enemy.

S.B.S., 17 May 2008
Damien Lewis is a great author, But please get facts correct!! I served for nine years in the Royal Marines Commandos, at that time the S.B.S. was part of the Corps of Royal Marines not the army! In his book " Bloody Heroes " Damien makes no mention this. He does however correctly state the S.B.S. base is at Poole in Dorset. ( this also the base of the R.M. landing craft squadrons ) S.B.S. stands for Special Boat Squadron not Special Boat Service.in his book on page 4 Damien refers to a basic grade S.B.S. rank as Trooper!not correct! The basic R.M. rank is MARINE either 1st or 2nd class. For further information please the book " The SBS Special Boat Squadron " by Philip Warner. ( my copy displays the Royal Marines crest on the front cover)

SBS - Ace Quad Bike Drivers Us!, 05 Mar 2008
An amazing and utterly compelling read.

Not just a book about the seige at Qala-i-junghi Fortress, Afghanistan but also deals with an Operation to storm a cargo ship mid ocean, on its way to London, post 11.09.01 and also setting up of an arduous OP overlooking the Naka Valley in Afghanistan.

All three Operations are linked by the central S.B.S Operatives who are involved in each.

Whatever your take on the issues with Afghanistan and the politics involved, you cannot help but be full of admiration for these men that do the hard things that are required of them with such skill, determination and loyalty to each other.

Check out the footage on youtube (search: SBS Afghanistan)!

British Special Forces Do not mess about.



'Outstanding' Bloody Heroes, 06 Sep 2007
This is an absolute must, fast paced, intriguing, end to end action.

An Inspirational story about a tight-knit SBS team who act on a terrorist threat in the UK, which ultimately leads them to the harsh plains of Afghanistan where they come face to face with 500 battle hardened Al Qaeda and Taliban fighters at the Qala-I-Janghi (fort of war).

It shows complete determination and professionalism that these human warriors possess.

This is such a great read, I read cover to cover in just a day and a half.

Don't just read this review go and order a copy now and see for yourself, you will not be disappointed.


fascinating read, 12 Jul 2008
quirky subject. thats what caught my attention.
Really fascinating read. Whats even more amazing is the amount of nuclear weapons work thats still taking place!

A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A brilliant read., 19 Jun 2008
I'm currently reading Damien Lewis's book 'Bloody Heroes' and this is the book that influenced me to get 'Bloody Heroes'. The writing by Damien lewis is utterly compelling and audastic, he captures the sheer horror of being captured and held hostage to the adreniline fueled assault on the rebels base by a SAS/SBS force. Recommend this book and I also reccomend 'Bloody Heroes' By the same author.

Well crafted writing. Enjoyed it., 17 May 2008
The way in which OCD is written, to my mind, is a cross between Terence Strong at his best for the thriller aspect, and Michael Herr (Dispatches) for his ability to move in close to the guys and then zoom out again to paint the broader geopolitical picture.
Its obvious Damien has had face to face meetings with the lads, and seen a bit himself.
I don't have a problem with the attempt at breathing life into the characters; it would obviously have been proof-read by the lads mentioned before printing, and D. wouldn't have wanted to burn that particular bridge by upsetting them with BS. After all, the activities of special forces is where the market is. And yes, there is a BFG (read Cameron Spence's Iraq book to meet him.)

The story needed to be told, but it's the manner in which it's been told that can grate..., 06 May 2008
The book is a solid read, and on a subject which needed telling, but I do wish Lewis had merely 'reported' the exchanges between the troopers on the ground and not tried to re-enact/reconstruct them, almost verbatim (and annoyingly in the vernacular).

Like others I was tempted to skip whole passages whilst Kiwi (who had the cadences here of a South African and not a New Zealander), 'Jimmy the Cockney' and the Big Scottish Monster were bantering-off each other.

Only a minor gripe, but I feel that, in the initial stages of the book, more coverage of the reasons leading to Britain's involvement in Sierra Leone (i.e. Op Palliser being green-lit) could have been accorded the reader - in total contrast to the Analysis section of the book, which is spectacularly well researched, lucid and devastating in its damning indictment of the UN's hopelessly outmoded, inefficient and ultimately completely ineffective deployment, structure and mandating.

The section on the (it is to be hoped for) considered future use of Private Military Companies (PMCs) is sense incarnate: as the UN can no longer sit idly-by and watch (Angola, Rwanda et al) millions of innocents be slaughtered whilst merely wringing its hands whilst intoning "how disappointed we are..." whilst rebel and other bandit groups in Africa (and elsewhere) have unbridled free rein to butcher at will.

There's an old Regiment saying that they play by Big Boys' Rules: and the content of this book leaves you in no doubt that they they are deadly serious in that sentiment.

In complete contrast to the US Rangers and Delta Force débâcle in Mogadishu, even when not fighting in ideal conditions, the books is a textbook example of how a mission can succeed, and Lewis is to be congratulated on his ability to report obvious first-hand accounts of some of the men on the ground.



Not good, 27 Dec 2007
Whilst the story is gripping and no doubt well researched, by the author's admission some of the details especially surrounding the special forces is entirely fictional. As mentioned by another reviewer, the conversations between troopers is downright dire. I can only assume this is where the author ran out of imaginative dialogue to put down on paper. To cap it all off towards the end of the book the author switches from past tense to present tense. Why on earth this is done i have no idea as it completely breaks the narrative flow and adds nothing to the story. It would have been a lot better to stick to the known facts than to start imagining godawful dialogue to put into the story.

When's the film coming out?, 06 Sep 2007
I agree with most of what has been said by previous reviewers. Yes the depiction of some the dialogue is annoying, and yes Lewis does better when he sticks to writing about the operation itself, the build-up and the aftermath. But overall this is a terrific book, and the title - isn't that nabbed from Blackadder Goes Forth?

What I especially like is some of the questions Lewis raises around the periphery of the incident:
- what was the role played by the Jordanian UN troops - were the Rangers set up by their supposed allies?
- why did Martial seemingly take such a stupid risk as to drive out to 'visit' WSB territory?
- having done so why did he keep his convoy in such a close formation that it was easily captured?
- which leads inevitably to the question - were the Rangers sacrificial lambs? Was the whole thing a set-up by British Army command to give us an excuse to go in and administer a severe kicking to Kallay and his thugs?

We'll never know, and speculation can be odious - but these are the hints of conspiracy that would make this a great movie. Ioan Gruffudd as Major Martial and Robert Carlyle as SAS trooper Jimmy? Bring it on!

The most explosive untrue war story of the 21st century, 29 Sep 2008
This book isn't quite sure whether it wants to be a novel or a 'true' story. As a novel it's not bad but it is true only in the sense that it is based around true events with most of the narrative invented by the author. How, for example, could he know what the Taliban/Al Qaeda were saying to each other?
The battle scene in the fort is good - apart from the idea that an SBS operator would even try headshots to shoot three enemy while they were scaling a ladder!? And the scene where SBS and Northern Alliance soldiers ran into a minefield which, somehow, the NA soldiers didn't know about although they were stationed at the fort is laughable. [The prisoners could never have had the time or opportunity to have laid a minefield]. There is a bizarre episode where CIA Bob impresses Mat and the other SBS with his knowledge of Richard the Lionheart and Saladin - except the author thinks Richard never got further than Syria and Saladin had something to do with the Moorish conquest of Spain. This is sloppy research at its worst.

The use of the word 'mate' in every other sentence the SBS spoke was irritating in the extreme and totally artificial. As was the idea that Royal Marines SBS ranks would address the senior US officer at base camp as 'mate'. He also writes, "The enemy fighters had somehow worked out how to fire their RPGs at a forty-five-degree angle, so that the grenades acted something like mortar rounds". Again, an example of lazy composition: how could he not guess that they might have 'somehow' worked this out when fighting hundreds of thousands of Russians for year after year?
The inaccuracy and sloppiness in the book is also reflected in the photographs which are, presumably, used to add authenticity to the story. One picture of SBS/SAS roping onto the target ship MV Nisha shows them on a day with blue skies and white clouds. The second picture of the same event is shown on a day, heavily overcast with grey clouds. Also the Naka Valley observation post is shown as being set amongst conifers, which at 12,000ft would have been above the upper limit for trees.

The Epilogue gives a sound, objective analysis of the background to the incident - it is a pity he did not bother to employ the same discipline when writing the book. As a 'war story' it's not a bad read - but as a 'true' story it falls way short of a reasonable standard.

Another reviewer mentioned that SBS should stand for Special Boat Squadron - but the author did get this right. The name was changed to Special Boat Service at the same time non-Royal Marines were allowed to join for the first time - and when the motto was changed from 'Not By Strength, By Guile' to 'By Strength and By Guile'

Bloody incredible, 24 May 2008
It would be very easy to oversimplify the efforts that this author has captured on behalf of the boys that are out there doing the stuff that we mortals dream we'd be good enough or brave enough to do.
This book did many things for me, it excited, thrilled exhilarated, made me proud angry, ashamed and sobered me up when I was drunk on the thrill of war. The storyteller clearly has a talent for telling someone elses tale so very well, but above all I was humbled.

I have been interested in special forces and warfare for years and have to say hat his was one of the best of the special activity stuff I have read. Not least because to get an insight into the SBS is quite difficult. Highly recommended and well received by all those I pass it to. But more than all of that a great story of the heroes that the UK produces. Sad that events went down as described but needless to say our boys showed phenomenal skill and courage in the face of a bloody incredible enemy.

S.B.S., 17 May 2008
Damien Lewis is a great author, But please get facts correct!! I served for nine years in the Royal Marines Commandos, at that time the S.B.S. was part of the Corps of Royal Marines not the army! In his book " Bloody Heroes " Damien makes no mention this. He does however correctly state the S.B.S. base is at Poole in Dorset. ( this also the base of the R.M. landing craft squadrons ) S.B.S. stands for Special Boat Squadron not Special Boat Service.in his book on page 4 Damien refers to a basic grade S.B.S. rank as Trooper!not correct! The basic R.M. rank is MARINE either 1st or 2nd class. For further information please the book " The SBS Special Boat Squadron " by Philip Warner. ( my copy displays the Royal Marines crest on the front cover)

SBS - Ace Quad Bike Drivers Us!, 05 Mar 2008
An amazing and utterly compelling read.

Not just a book about the seige at Qala-i-junghi Fortress, Afghanistan but also deals with an Operation to storm a cargo ship mid ocean, on its way to London, post 11.09.01 and also setting up of an arduous OP overlooking the Naka Valley in Afghanistan.

All three Operations are linked by the central S.B.S Operatives who are involved in each.

Whatever your take on the issues with Afghanistan and the politics involved, you cannot help but be full of admiration for these men that do the hard things that are required of them with such skill, determination and loyalty to each other.

Check out the footage on youtube (search: SBS Afghanistan)!

British Special Forces Do not mess about.



'Outstanding' Bloody Heroes, 06 Sep 2007
This is an absolute must, fast paced, intriguing, end to end action.

An Inspirational story about a tight-knit SBS team who act on a terrorist threat in the UK, which ultimately leads them to the harsh plains of Afghanistan where they come face to face with 500 battle hardened Al Qaeda and Taliban fighters at the Qala-I-Janghi (fort of war).

It shows complete determination and professionalism that these human warriors possess.

This is such a great read, I read cover to cover in just a day and a half.

Don't just read this review go and order a copy now and see for yourself, you will not be disappointed.


fascinating read, 12 Jul 2008
quirky subject. thats what caught my attention.
Really fascinating read. Whats even more amazing is the amount of nuclear weapons work thats still taking place!

Slightly less than the title suggests., 21 Feb 2008
This is a valuable history of the closing stages of the {first?} "Cold War" - concentrating particularly on the Reagan/Gorbachev encounters and the resulting agreements to reduce strategic and tactical weapons in Europe. Written in Richard Rhode's usual authoritative style, with copious references to source documents and many personal interviews with some of the surviving protagonists on both sides, my only reservation is that the book concentrates on the 'end' of the Nuclear Arms Race, rather than on it's making, as one might have inferred from the title. Yes, the author mentions both superpowers' native Military Industrial Complexes as being among the prime reasons for sustaining the billions/trillions of dollars expenditure over some fifty years, but the book doesn't really give any detailed history of the major developments during that period - e.g. the misleading claims made by various American presidential candidates {of both parties} during the 1950's over the so-called 'missile gap', which lead to a vast accelaration in the numbers of nuclear delivery systems and warheads by the time of the 1962 Cuban crisis.
Where the book really does score, and where it's historic relevance extends right up to the present, is that it highlights the extremely pervasive negative influences of some of the people surrounding Reagan -e.g. Perle, Wolfowitz, Cheney and Rumsfeld - who simply couldn't accept the notion of nuclear parity, or the point of any effective reductions in the massive overkill potential of the superpowers, and tried to sabotage the negotiations at every step. Unfortunately these same people came back to even more influential positions in George W. Bush's administratiions, and as Richard Rhodes just stops short of pointing-out too explicitly, were largely responsible for the nature of the US military responses around the world since 9/11.

A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A brilliant read., 19 Jun 2008
I'm currently reading Damien Lewis's book 'Bloody Heroes' and this is the book that influenced me to get 'Bloody Heroes'. The writing by Damien lewis is utterly compelling and audastic, he captures the sheer horror of being captured and held hostage to the adreniline fueled assault on the rebels base by a SAS/SBS force. Recommend this book and I also reccomend 'Bloody Heroes' By the same author.

Well crafted writing. Enjoyed it., 17 May 2008
The way in which OCD is written, to my mind, is a cross between Terence Strong at his best for the thriller aspect, and Michael Herr (Dispatches) for his ability to move in close to the guys and then zoom out again to paint the broader geopolitical picture.
Its obvious Damien has had face to face meetings with the lads, and seen a bit himself.
I don't have a problem with the attempt at breathing life into the characters; it would obviously have been proof-read by the lads mentioned before printing, and D. wouldn't have wanted to burn that particular bridge by upsetting them with BS. After all, the activities of special forces is where the market is. And yes, there is a BFG (read Cameron Spence's Iraq book to meet him.)

The story needed to be told, but it's the manner in which it's been told that can grate..., 06 May 2008
The book is a solid read, and on a subject which needed telling, but I do wish Lewis had merely 'reported' the exchanges between the troopers on the ground and not tried to re-enact/reconstruct them, almost verbatim (and annoyingly in the vernacular).

Like others I was tempted to skip whole passages whilst Kiwi (who had the cadences here of a South African and not a New Zealander), 'Jimmy the Cockney' and the Big Scottish Monster were bantering-off each other.

Only a minor gripe, but I feel that, in the initial stages of the book, more coverage of the reasons leading to Britain's involvement in Sierra Leone (i.e. Op Palliser being green-lit) could have been accorded the reader - in total contrast to the Analysis section of the book, which is spectacularly well researched, lucid and devastating in its damning indictment of the UN's hopelessly outmoded, inefficient and ultimately completely ineffective deployment, structure and mandating.

The section on the (it is to be hoped for) considered future use of Private Military Companies (PMCs) is sense incarnate: as the UN can no longer sit idly-by and watch (Angola, Rwanda et al) millions of innocents be slaughtered whilst merely wringing its hands whilst intoning "how disappointed we are..." whilst rebel and other bandit groups in Africa (and elsewhere) have unbridled free rein to butcher at will.

There's an old Regiment saying that they play by Big Boys' Rules: and the content of this book leaves you in no doubt that they they are deadly serious in that sentiment.

In complete contrast to the US Rangers and Delta Force débâcle in Mogadishu, even when not fighting in ideal conditions, the books is a textbook example of how a mission can succeed, and Lewis is to be congratulated on his ability to report obvious first-hand accounts of some of the men on the ground.



Not good, 27 Dec 2007
Whilst the story is gripping and no doubt well researched, by the author's admission some of the details especially surrounding the special forces is entirely fictional. As mentioned by another reviewer, the conversations between troopers is downright dire. I can only assume this is where the author ran out of imaginative dialogue to put down on paper. To cap it all off towards the end of the book the author switches from past tense to present tense. Why on earth this is done i have no idea as it completely breaks the narrative flow and adds nothing to the story. It would have been a lot better to stick to the known facts than to start imagining godawful dialogue to put into the story.

When's the film coming out?, 06 Sep 2007
I agree with most of what has been said by previous reviewers. Yes the depiction of some the dialogue is annoying, and yes Lewis does better when he sticks to writing about the operation itself, the build-up and the aftermath. But overall this is a terrific book, and the title - isn't that nabbed from Blackadder Goes Forth?

What I especially like is some of the questions Lewis raises around the periphery of the incident:
- what was the role played by the Jordanian UN troops - were the Rangers set up by their supposed allies?
- why did Martial seemingly take such a stupid risk as to drive out to 'visit' WSB territory?
- having done so why did he keep his convoy in such a close formation that it was easily captured?
- which leads inevitably to the question - were the Rangers sacrificial lambs? Was the whole thing a set-up by British Army command to give us an excuse to go in and administer a severe kicking to Kallay and his thugs?

We'll never know, and speculation can be odious - but these are the hints of conspiracy that would make this a great movie. Ioan Gruffudd as Major Martial and Robert Carlyle as SAS trooper Jimmy? Bring it on!

The most explosive untrue war story of the 21st century, 29 Sep 2008
This book isn't quite sure whether it wants to be a novel or a 'true' story. As a novel it's not bad but it is true only in the sense that it is based around true events with most of the narrative invented by the author. How, for example, could he know what the Taliban/Al Qaeda were saying to each other?
The battle scene in the fort is good - apart from the idea that an SBS operator would even try headshots to shoot three enemy while they were scaling a ladder!? And the scene where SBS and Northern Alliance soldiers ran into a minefield which, somehow, the NA soldiers didn't know about although they were stationed at the fort is laughable. [The prisoners could never have had the time or opportunity to have laid a minefield]. There is a bizarre episode where CIA Bob impresses Mat and the other SBS with his knowledge of Richard the Lionheart and Saladin - except the author thinks Richard never got further than Syria and Saladin had something to do with the Moorish conquest of Spain. This is sloppy research at its worst.

The use of the word 'mate' in every other sentence the SBS spoke was irritating in the extreme and totally artificial. As was the idea that Royal Marines SBS ranks would address the senior US officer at base camp as 'mate'. He also writes, "The enemy fighters had somehow worked out how to fire their RPGs at a forty-five-degree angle, so that the grenades acted something like mortar rounds". Again, an example of lazy composition: how could he not guess that they might have 'somehow' worked this out when fighting hundreds of thousands of Russians for year after year?
The inaccuracy and sloppiness in the book is also reflected in the photographs which are, presumably, used to add authenticity to the story. One picture of SBS/SAS roping onto the target ship MV Nisha shows them on a day with blue skies and white clouds. The second picture of the same event is shown on a day, heavily overcast with grey clouds. Also the Naka Valley observation post is shown as being set amongst conifers, which at 12,000ft would have been above the upper limit for trees.

The Epilogue gives a sound, objective analysis of the background to the incident - it is a pity he did not bother to employ the same discipline when writing the book. As a 'war story' it's not a bad read - but as a 'true' story it falls way short of a reasonable standard.

Another reviewer mentioned that SBS should stand for Special Boat Squadron - but the author did get this right. The name was changed to Special Boat Service at the same time non-Royal Marines were allowed to join for the first time - and when the motto was changed from 'Not By Strength, By Guile' to 'By Strength and By Guile'

Bloody incredible, 24 May 2008
It would be very easy to oversimplify the efforts that this author has captured on behalf of the boys that are out there doing the stuff that we mortals dream we'd be good enough or brave enough to do.
This book did many things for me, it excited, thrilled exhilarated, made me proud angry, ashamed and sobered me up when I was drunk on the thrill of war. The storyteller clearly has a talent for telling someone elses tale so very well, but above all I was humbled.

I have been interested in special forces and warfare for years and have to say hat his was one of the best of the special activity stuff I have read. Not least because to get an insight into the SBS is quite difficult. Highly recommended and well received by all those I pass it to. But more than all of that a great story of the heroes that the UK produces. Sad that events went down as described but needless to say our boys showed phenomenal skill and courage in the face of a bloody incredible enemy.

S.B.S., 17 May 2008
Damien Lewis is a great author, But please get facts correct!! I served for nine years in the Royal Marines Commandos, at that time the S.B.S. was part of the Corps of Royal Marines not the army! In his book " Bloody Heroes " Damien makes no mention this. He does however correctly state the S.B.S. base is at Poole in Dorset. ( this also the base of the R.M. landing craft squadrons ) S.B.S. stands for Special Boat Squadron not Special Boat Service.in his book on page 4 Damien refers to a basic grade S.B.S. rank as Trooper!not correct! The basic R.M. rank is MARINE either 1st or 2nd class. For further information please the book " The SBS Special Boat Squadron " by Philip Warner. ( my copy displays the Royal Marines crest on the front cover)

SBS - Ace Quad Bike Drivers Us!, 05 Mar 2008
An amazing and utterly compelling read.

Not just a book about the seige at Qala-i-junghi Fortress, Afghanistan but also deals with an Operation to storm a cargo ship mid ocean, on its way to London, post 11.09.01 and also setting up of an arduous OP overlooking the Naka Valley in Afghanistan.

All three Operations are linked by the central S.B.S Operatives who are involved in each.

Whatever your take on the issues with Afghanistan and the politics involved, you cannot help but be full of admiration for these men that do the hard things that are required of them with such skill, determination and loyalty to each other.

Check out the footage on youtube (search: SBS Afghanistan)!

British Special Forces Do not mess about.



'Outstanding' Bloody Heroes, 06 Sep 2007
This is an absolute must, fast paced, intriguing, end to end action.

An Inspirational story about a tight-knit SBS team who act on a terrorist threat in the UK, which ultimately leads them to the harsh plains of Afghanistan where they come face to face with 500 battle hardened Al Qaeda and Taliban fighters at the Qala-I-Janghi (fort of war).

It shows complete determination and professionalism that these human warriors possess.

This is such a great read, I read cover to cover in just a day and a half.

Don't just read this review go and order a copy now and see for yourself, you will not be disappointed.


fascinating read, 12 Jul 2008
quirky subject. thats what caught my attention.
Really fascinating read. Whats even more amazing is the amount of nuclear weapons work thats still taking place!

Slightly less than the title suggests., 21 Feb 2008
This is a valuable history of the closing stages of the {first?} "Cold War" - concentrating particularly on the Reagan/Gorbachev encounters and the resulting agreements to reduce strategic and tactical weapons in Europe. Written in Richard Rhode's usual authoritative style, with copious references to source documents and many personal interviews with some of the surviving protagonists on both sides, my only reservation is that the book concentrates on the 'end' of the Nuclear Arms Race, rather than on it's making, as one might have inferred from the title. Yes, the author mentions both superpowers' native Military Industrial Complexes as being among the prime reasons for sustaining the billions/trillions of dollars expenditure over some fifty years, but the book doesn't really give any detailed history of the major developments during that period - e.g. the misleading claims made by various American presidential candidates {of both parties} during the 1950's over the so-called 'missile gap', which lead to a vast accelaration in the numbers of nuclear delivery systems and warheads by the time of the 1962 Cuban crisis.
Where the book really does score, and where it's historic relevance extends right up to the present, is that it highlights the extremely pervasive negative influences of some of the people surrounding Reagan -e.g. Perle, Wolfowitz, Cheney and Rumsfeld - who simply couldn't accept the notion of nuclear parity, or the point of any effective reductions in the massive overkill potential of the superpowers, and tried to sabotage the negotiations at every step. Unfortunately these same people came back to even more influential positions in George W. Bush's administratiions, and as Richard Rhodes just stops short of pointing-out too explicitly, were largely responsible for the nature of the US military responses around the world since 9/11.

Informatove but flawed, 08 Oct 2007
Bought this as I have a real interest in science and the cold war, but most of the book appears to be a biography of Leo Szilard interspersed with synopses of phrophetic science-fiction books. Undoubtedly Mr Szilard is one of the key figures, but using him as the centrepiece of the book rather changes the focus and gets it a little bogged down in the minutiae of his life where it could be ranging over other parts of the subject. It's still got a lot of information in it that I had not encountered before, but it should have been called Doomsday Man: The life of Leo Szilard. A bit disappointing in the end.

An important book for our times, 13 Sep 2007
Doomsday Men offers a sobering look at the cultural, political and scientific factors influencing the development of superweapons in the 20th century. Smith brilliantly shows how the literary creations of H. G. Wells and others, in works such a "The World Set Free," inspired nuclear scientists to pursue the development of weapons so utterly destructive that they were meant never to be be used. Yet they were, twice, in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, much to the horror of scientists such as Szilard and Einstein who advocated the development of atomic bombs only for preventing the Nazis from gaining a monopoly on the dreadful secret. Instead of the utopias imagined by Wells and the world government advocated by Einstein, the world launched into a sinister Cold War and a continued arms race, which has led, even until the present, to a diversion of needed resources into the development and maintenance of expensive and horrifically lethal armaments. Smith's book is a meticulously researched tour-de-force that offers readers an important glimpse into the rationale behind the creation of the world's nuclear arsenal, as well as a splendid examination of how culture and science interact. All in all, a highly worthwhile read.

So nearly brilliant, 28 Aug 2007
A great story, well told, BUT....

PD Smith seems to be obsessed with science fiction, and page after page is wasted on banging on about what science fiction was writing at the time.

He does have a point (which is that science fiction authors were better than politicians at understanding the power of the atom), BUT one chapter would have covered that nicely.

I found myself paging through the tedious contents of 1950's comics to find the real story

Fantastic Book!, 17 Aug 2007
I bought this on a bit of a whim after reading the blurb on the back. I am so glad I did as it is an amazing book which charts the history of the nuclear bomb from the very first inceptions back with Marie Curie all the way through to the present day. The twist is that this is a sort of history book which also looks at the effect these weapons have had on the psyche of the populous over the years through the mediums of Science Fiction and normal media as well. As a child of the 70s/80s who thought that the world would end I found this book amazing!

A GRAPHIC INSIGHT INTO THE MURKY WORLD OF NUCLEAR DEFENCE., 14 Sep 2007
I must admit that until I picked up this fantastic book I had no idea that these large undergound bunkers even existed. The rational behind these huge military civil defence bunkers came from the Cold War. And during the early 1950's billions of pounds were diverted from the already war torn country to nuclear civil defence. It was feared by the governments that a nuclear attack could happen at any moment and they would need to take shelter to still govern. But not only run the devistated country but to wage nuclear war on the other countrys. So during this post war period thousands of huge bunkers were built in secret undergound across the country. This book delves into only just declassified files to look into the countries defence plans. The staggering idea is that only military and govenment personell would be housed in the large shelters. And if any civilain should find a bunker they would be killed on sight ! and not given refuge. A tell tale sign of a bunker are the large comm's masts not unlike mobile masts dotted about the countryside. I have been to Kelvingdon Hatch which is a large 3 floor 'Rotor' station and it's a revelation. With it's mix of 1950's to 80's technology which would run the main base as it was in command of smaller council based defence stations in the Essex area. The whole complex is very eerie indeed and it's like stepping back 50 years. It does show how seriously the then Governments took the reality of a Nuclear attack. And at how little it thought of the Civil population at large should an attack happen !. This is a must buy and the book itself feels like a forbidden text due to it's nature. The bunker sites themselves are also a shock and even two such's proximity to my own home In Orpington.


Still Cuts it!!!, 25 Feb 2007
Whilst this is a reprint it has to be said that McCamley's seminal work still cuts it. What helps this is the vast array of sites included in the publication. If you need more of a contextual story of British defence then maybe Four Minute Warning by Clarke through Tempus is the one, however this book has some superb aspects to it. Read it or miss out.

Good Read, 01 Sep 2003
An excellent well researched book written in an easy to read style. Plenty of photographs and illustrations support the text. The subject matter was facinating.

Very Interesting, 18 Aug 2003
Bought this book and have to say it was superbly intersting and captivating.

It describes ALL major construction projects over the world such as NORAD etc but also some of the projects I had never heard of such as the Diefenbunker in Canada

Well worth buying for the excellent analysis of all major projects

Forgotten Hidden History, 17 Jun 2003
As someone who used to work in the building pictured on the cover of Nick McCamley's book it was bound to hold some interest. Having read the book from cover to cover in one sitting I can only say that it is fortunate that somebody has been dedicated and indeed interested enough to research and document in a truly scholarly fashion the years of hidden history of underground citadels in the US and UK. The UK sites were for use in times of conflict, and latterly in the worst scenario imaginable. As such many were not neccessarily secret, just not publicised, and with the outbreak of peace that we encountered in Europe in the early '90s so many of these buildings were abandoned, demolished or disposed of. The history of these sites is recorded here in an unbiased and realistic reference work that is well presented and accurate. An excellent book that far outstrips all others on the subject read to date.

A brilliant read., 19 Jun 2008
I'm currently reading Damien Lewis's book 'Bloody Heroes' and this is the book that influenced me to get 'Bloody Heroes'. The writing by Damien lewis is utterly compelling and audastic, he captures the sheer horror of being captured and held hostage to the adreniline fueled assault on the rebels base by a SAS/SBS force. Recommend this book and I also reccomend 'Bloody Heroes' By the same author.

Well crafted writing. Enjoyed it., 17 May 2008
The way in which OCD is written, to my mind, is a cross between Terence Strong at his best for the thriller aspect, and Michael Herr (Dispatches) for his ability to move in close to the guys and then zoom out again to paint the broader geopolitical picture.
Its obvious Damien has had face to face meetings with the lads, and seen a bit himself.
I don't have a problem with the attempt at breathing life into the characters; it would obviously have been proof-read by the lads mentioned before printing, and D. wouldn't have wanted to burn that particular bridge by upsetting them with BS. After all, the activities of special forces is where the market is. And yes, there is a BFG (read Cameron Spence's Iraq book to meet him.)

The story needed to be told, but it's the manner in which it's been told that can grate..., 06 May 2008
The book is a solid read, and on a subject which needed telling, but I do wish Lewis had merely 'reported' the exchanges between the troopers on the ground and not tried to re-enact/reconstruct them, almost verbatim (and annoyingly in the vernacular).

Like others I was tempted to skip whole passages whilst Kiwi (who had the cadences here of a South African and not a New Zealander), 'Jimmy the Cockney' and the Big Scottish Monster were bantering-off each other.