A Special Kind of Courage by Chris Ryder

A Special Kind of Courage by Chris Ryder

321 EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Squadron was posted to Northern Ireland at the outset of the Troubles, to provide bomb disposal expertise. Since then, it has answered over 50,000 'bomb scare' calls, over 5,500 of them to deal with actual devices. It is impossible to estimate the number of lives, or value of property, saved by its work. But, the cost is clear. Conspicuous courage is an essential qualification, and 321 EOD is the most decorated unit in the entire British Army. Its members have been awarded 2 George Crosses, 29 George Medals and 281 other medals for outstanding gallantry, many posthumously. As peace emerges in Northern Ireland, 321 EOD is now ready to tell its story for the first time. Written with its full co-operation, "A Special Kind of Courage" traces the history and development of bomb disposal and the use of explosives by terrorists; the human courage and techniques used to counter it; and the international dimension - how violent revolutionary groups abroad, such as ETA in Spain, copied the methods of Irish terrorists. It describes how 321 EOD's pioneering devices - notably the remote-controlled 'wheelbarrow' - have been exported around the world, earning it a global expertise that is sought by many other nations facing the threat of terrorism.

"'Incredible tales of heroism in the face of absolute dangerA thrilling read.' Western Mail (Cardiff) * 'This remarkable book stands testimony to an inspirational record of public service' Lt. Gen. Sir Alastair Irwin, GOC Northern Ireland 2002-2003 * 'Chris Ryder's book is a fitting and important tribute to men and women whose raw courage became second nature but must never be taken for granted or forgotten' Newsletter (Northern Ireland) * 'Ryder has a vast knowledge of the Northern Ireland conflict and brings it to bear with unusual clarity' The Times"

Chris Ryder is a writer and journalist who was Northern Ireland correspondent for the Daily Telegraph and was previously on the staff of the Sunday Times. His previous books include The RUC 1922-2000, Drumcree (with Vincent Kearney), Inside the Maze and The Fateful Split. He lives in Belfast.

SKU	Unavailable
ISBN 13	9780413775672
ISBN 10	0413775674
Title	A Special Kind of Courage
Author	Chris Ryder
Condition	Unavailable
Binding Type	Paperback
Publisher	Methuen Publishing Ltd
Year published	2006-05-11
Number of pages	352
Cover note	Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
Note	Unavailable