A Handful of Hard Men

The SAS and the Battle for Rhodesia

By: Hannes Wessels

Narrated by: Jack Chekijian

It is difficult to find another soldier's story to equal Captain Darrell Watt's in terms of time spent on the field of battle and challenges faced. Even by the lofty standards of the SAS and Special Forces, one has to look far to find anyone who can match his record of resilience and valor in the face of such daunting odds and with resources so paltry.

In the fight, he showed himself to be a military maestro. A bush-lore genius, blessed with uncanny instincts and an unbridled determination to close with the enemy, he had no peers as a combat-tracker (and there was plenty of competition). But the Rhodesian theater was a fluid and volatile one in which he performed in almost every imaginable fighting role.

After 12 years in the cauldron of war, his cause slipped from beneath him, and Rhodesia gave way to Zimbabwe. When the guns went quiet, Watt had won all his battles but lost the war. In this fascinating biography, we learn that in his twilight years, he is now concerned with saving wildlife on a continent where they are in continued danger and devoting himself to both the fauna and African people he cares so deeply about.

©2015 Hannes Wessels (P)2017 Tantor

Inspirational story of what can be achieved by individuals and small teams against the odds.

I would have preferred a less posturing performance however the story was astounding. Bravery, discipline, resilience and true love of country which does not necessitate hate of others. A story for us, our children and for all country leaders.

Incredible story about a forgotten war

If you like special forces stories, this is a great book to get. If, added to that, you have an interest in the forgotten struggles of Africa, doubly so. Told through the lens of the Rhodesian SAS experience, the struggle for Rhodesia and how many European powers and Britain in particular chose to play populist politics at the expense of a young nation's future is a riveting tale. I did find the narration a touch off the mark, partly through the mis-pronunciation of some names and the laconic style. But played at 1.3x speed, this was all resolved.

Great story and narration

I don’t understand the complaints about the narration, I thought it was perfect. His dry, gritty tone sets the perfect mood for a story about tough men fighting a tough war. I wish Wessel’s follow up book had used the same guy, and hope the third book will return to him.
The book itself is fantastic. It’s personal enough to make feel involved, but broad enough that you get to see the big picture as well. If you want action, this is your book. It is an inspiring story of heroism, determination, and bravery, and a tragic tale of betrayal and loss. I cannot recommend it enough.

Eye Opening

This was a difficult listen. It makes you uncomfortable at times and not just for a few reasons. It was recommended to me by an old trooper and farmer that lived through the time. It also sheds light on a story a lot of people either misunderstand or have never heard of. I highly recommend it and pray that these Rhodesians will never die.

Best of the Best

An absolute must listen for anyone that believes in freedom at any price. The courage and bravery shown by the Rhodesian SAS is nothing short of amazing.