Combat Civilian stands comparison with books of reportage by journalists like John Simpson, and provides a fascinating history of the period, particularly of Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. Most importantly, it gives a unique insider’s view and combines vivid vignettes from the sharp end of each conflict or disaster with penetrating insights into the policies and machinations of the United Nations, governments and NGOs... The book is skilfully edited so that the pages turn by themselves, but the reader is left wanting much more; it only scratches the surface of no fewer than 25 operations. Combat Civilian captures all the warped humour, excitements and privations of operational theatres, but Greenall’s sharp analysis makes it much more than just a thrilling story. Buy it as a Christmas present to inspire nieces and nephews with an ambition to be a force for good in a world that is still ripe with adventure.
