An interesting read, written in a straightforward manner, covering the complete history of the Parachute Regiment. With an objective to complete the book in 100,000 words it was always going to lack depth in some areas. Inevitably it was also going to cover situations, conflicts, engagements etc. covered in more depth in other books, that focussed on specific theatres or time periods.

Despite these challenges I enjoyed it. The author writes with authority and from a position of intimate knowledge. I learnt more about the selection process and training than I had before and the final chapter on the Circuit was insightful. I found the section on The Troubles uncomfortable, it must have been such a challenging theatre and I feel there was a lack of government support. Likewise Iraq and Afghanistan.

I’m in awe of the stamina, mental strength, fortitude, self control and military skills of these men.

The book moves at a good pace and held my interest. Recommended for anyone who has an interest in the military, the Paras and wants to know more about these elite troops.

Jason Wood's Paras in Action: Ready for Anything – The Parachute Regiment Through the Eyes of Those Who Served is perfect for someone interested in:

-Paratroopers
-British military history
-Special operations
-Elite combat units
-Skydiving warriors

Wood documents a century of paratrooper activity, including:

-WWII
-Cyprus
-The Falklands
-The Balkans
-Afghanistan
-Iraq
-The 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan
-The Circuit (private protection)

Occasionally, Wood reflects on the training.

This tome salutes the brave warriors the fall from the sky.

I would have liked Wood to explain how the Paras differ from US Airmen PJs, Airborne Rangers, and US Special Operations.

VERDICT: 4 out 5 stars.

The story of the Paras as told by a former member, tracks their history from the formation in 1942 through to the present day in a chronological saga of the battles they fought both from a military perspective and with the personal challenges they all faced through the years. It describes a special breed of fighting men who were prepared to face any situation they were given, with determination, fearlessness and the flexibility demanded of rapidly changing situations.
It also highlights that this world of ours is never free of conflict and that necessitates the use of forces such as the Parachute Regiment to negate the ambitions of the rogue dictator or organised terrorist group. The camaraderie of the paras is evidenced in many of the examples of heroism in this book but the men involved always consider they were doing their job because they were Paras.
A great read for any military historian or anyone who wants to read about the real-world heroes that keep us safe.

A thoroughly engrossing read about the history of the parachute corps in Great Britain. The story follows the men from the inception in WW2 to modern day. There is plenty of firsthand accounts to keep your interest and really brings out the inspirational efforts put forth by these men. A great read.

Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.