Description

Title: Strike Swiftly – The Australian Commando Story

Author: Collins, Peter

Condition: Near Mint

Edition: 1st Edition

Publication Date: 2005

ISBN: 094928470X

Cover: Hard Cover with Dust Jacket – 336 pages

Comments: The comprehensive history of the 1st Commando Regiment from World War Two through to 2006. Limited Edition of 350 in Box. This is copy No. 323.

The inspirational story of commando service in Australia starts with the early Independent Companies and their remarkable exploits against the Japanese in WWII. In the Cold War era, two commando companies were raised and soon expanded to include signallers before becoming a regiment.

These part time soldiers have diverse civilian occupations but all are bonded by a remarkable spirit that illuminates this book. Over the years commandos have built up an enviable honour roll; several were awarded the very highest decorations for gallantry.

Strike Swiftly, The Australian Commando Story gives a remarkable insight into a close-knit unit of highly trained individuals with extraordinary skills.

Commandos awarded the coveted green beret have specialist qualifications in roping and rappelling, parachuting and amphibious operations. Training is always high-risk; sometimes hair-raising, but often humorous. Strike Swiftly, The Australian Commando Story gives insight into the events and characters that have shaped this superb Regiment over the last half century.

Author, Peter Collins, is a former Honorary Colonel of 1 Commando Regiment and served with 1 RNSWR (Commando) in 1969. He is also a Commander in the RAN Reserve. Earlier in his career, he worked as a journalist for ABC television including the Four Corners program.

He was elected to the NSW Parliament in 1981 and during his political career held many portfolios including Attorney General, Health, and the Arts.

Gold leaf on page block. 

Signed by:

Previous Commanding Officers of the 1st Commando Regiment

Patron: General Sir Phillip Bennett AC KBE DSO

Special Operations Commander Australia: MAJ-GEN Michael Hindmarsh AM CSC