Keep off the skyline was Ron Cashman's watchword in wartime Korea when a silhouette on the horizon invariably meant sudden death. It helped to keep him alive in confronting a vigilant and dangerous enemy for almost two years of armed conflict. And he has applied the same phrase ever since; through another fifty turbulent years. The Korean War has been central to Ron Cashman's life and it is the central theme of the book. The Korean War is ritually referred to in the Australian media as "The Forgotten War;" yet it was never well enough known to be forgotten. How many Australians have ever been familiar with the Kapyong Valley; Little Gibraltar; Maryang San or The Hook? Very few; we believe. These were scenes of Australian heroism and Australian sacrifice that deserve their place in the public mind among the easily recognisable battle grounds of the two World Wars. It is by any measure a fascinating tale of war and post-war chaos; a compelling narrative of frontline exposure to an almost indestructible enemy and a horrifying descent into psychological terror. It is the story of a soldier who joined B Company as a rookie in the middle of savage firefight; who was wounded in action three times; who killed men in hand-to-hand combat; and who; in a brief interlude between long periods of barbaric trench warfare; met and fell in love with the woman who would see him through not only the armed conflict; but its unexpected aftermath.
#964705 in Books 2015-08-18Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.85 x 1.75 x 6.50l; 1.45 #File Name: 1632206412440 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great read; insightful and surprisingBy CustomerThis is fascinating look at the leaders of Israel's intelligence organization over about the last 40 years. The stories of major events (murder of Rabin; for example) are truly interesting; but mostly the comments and insights are surprising. The book offers not only insights into Israel's management of its terrorist problems (both from non-Jews AND Jews!); but insights into how the world in general can view and manage the terrorist threats outside that country. A must-read for anyone concerned about international security.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. but structured in a repetitious and dull manner; with an unnecessary emphasis on one incident ...By dorothea benjaminIs based upon interviews of former Israel internal security chiefs. There was a video presentation of these interviews; I believe that was on HBO or some other premium channel; that was much more interesting. This is a rehash of the many interviews; but structured in a repetitious and dull manner; with an unnecessary emphasis on one incident that is repeated over and over from different perspectives. Couldn't get through it after the 2nd go around revolving this terrorist incident on a bus..31 of 32 people found the following review helpful. Open sesameBy Hande ZThis is clearly an illuminating book because it touches on one of the most secretive aspects of international affairs – the Israeli Secret Service (Shin Bet). What makes it even more attractive is that the information contained in the book comes mainly from the interviews given by six former directors of the Shin Bet.How much of the truth is revealed; and how much more remains concealed; no one might really know; but the book is captivating and thought-provoking. There is a great deal of focus on the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin and the security fall-out thereafter; including questions and self-doubts. Could more have been done? Was the assassination preventable?The former directors also talk about the use and efficacy of torture. The methods employed in countering the enemies of Israel. These men also express their views concerning the politics of the Israeli state; how differently politicians view matters from the security people. No other book has so much information about the inner thinking of the Israeli secret service.
