Hammerhead Six cover art

Hammerhead Six

How Green Berets Waged an Unconventional War Against the Taliban to Win in Afghanistan's Deadly Pech Valley

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Hammerhead Six

By: Ronald Fry, Tad Tuleja
Narrated by: Ronald Fry
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About this listen

 The incredible story of the Green Berets' "hearts and minds" counterinsurgency in Afghanistan's notorious Pech River Valley, told by the unit commander who led Hammerhead Six.

In 2003, the Special Forces soldiers entered an area later called "the most dangerous place in Afghanistan." Here, where the line between civilians and armed zealots was indistinct, they illustrated the Afghan proverb: "I destroy my enemy by making him my friend."

Captain Ronald Fry recounts how they were seen as welcome guests rather than invaders. Soon after their deployment ended, the Pech Valley reverted to turmoil. Their success was never replicated. Hammerhead Six finally reveals how cultural respect, hard work (and the occasional machine-gun burst) were more than a match for the Taliban and Al Qaeda.

 Afghan & Iraq Wars Armed Forces Military Military & War Special & Elite Forces World War Middle East Solider
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i always like books narrated by the author, the story always seems more authentic and genuine.
when i started this book i was expecting another story of intense fighting and sacrifice, but what i got was so much more. as an ex army nco i truly beleive this book should become a standard text for anyone of rank in any military ground force. the author's selfless leadership style, respect for his subordinates and willingness to fully understand the local culture in which he he operates, is both brilliant and humbling to listen to. if only we had more Ronald Fry's in this world....

genuinely enlightening

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A riveting narrative that was easy to digest and fascinating. Not a typical infantry account but a nuanced interpretation of how to most effectively use special forces and conduct counter-insurgency operations intelligently.

Riveting story and a naunced perspective

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One of the very best books I have read. Having read what the Red Bearded Commander managed to accomplish through care and protection over against gung-ho bravado it was not surprising that the follow up tours were more of the usual bullets, collateral damage and resentment, that's what the politicians want, it pays the bills. Awesome accomplishments from the professionals though and what they achieved. Brilliantly written with humility.

There is another way

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A refreshingly unconventional story of soldiering with an emphasis on cultural deference and understanding that offers up an alternative vision for how the most recent war in Afghanistan might have been 'fought' and 'won'. Well written and very well-read. It took me a chapter or two to get into but is well worth the credit.

Outstanding

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A fantastic account of the realities of what is required for deconfliction between differing cultures.

Outstanding, insightful, humble and moving!

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