"Lone Survivor" by Marcus Luttrell and Patrick Robinson

While many may not have heard of it, operation Red Wings, which happened in late June 2005, ended up being the largest loss of life in Navy Seal history as every single member of the team, save for Marcus Luttrell, ended up dying, mostly at the hands of the Taliban.

Marcus Luttrell, being left all alone after being blown unconscious over a cliff from a rocket grenade blast, had only begun the fight. Even though he was presumed dead, Al Qaeda sent six assassins to finish him off, all of which ultimately failed at their task.

He later had to crawl more than seven miles until he met the Pushtu tribe, who undertook a great risk hiding him from the Taliban who were raising hell to find him.As mentioned before, Marcus Luttrell was the only survivor of the operation, and he felt it was his duty to honor his comrades who fell so he could live.

He then decided to write a book about Navy Seals and the Red Wings operation, in honor of all those who gave their lives for their country. At first, Marcus talks in his book about the training Navy Seals go through and the initiation they have to pass in order to become part of America’s elite warriors.

After that first part though, he takes us to mountains in Afghanistan where he and his team went through hell and high water, fighting off the Taliban soldiers all while plummeting a thousand feet down a mountain while dodging bullets and explosions. 

The details given in the account are simply breath-taking and will literally have you shiver while picturing the physical anguish and mental torment these brave men had to endure. If you would like to purchase Marcus’ book and take a look at this incredible account of courage, perseverance and honor, then have a look at the link below.

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Marcus Luttrell Personal site Marcus Luttrell is a former United States Navy SEAL, recipient of the Navy Cross and a Purple Heart for his display of bravery during Operation Red Wings. He established the Lone Survivor Foundation dedicated to helping veterans and their families. He co-authored upon returning home a New York Times bestseller, Lone Survivor, chronicling the events of the afore-mentioned operation.