My Year of Living Dangerously

An American Soldier in Afghanistan

Authored by LTC William "Rooster" Jones

What is it like to deploy to Afghanistan? Well, sit back and take a glimpse inside a fascinating yearlong experience told through dramatic photos and uncensored commentary. Bill "Rooster" Jones volunteered for duty in Afghanistan in 2007-08 and served as an Engineer in both the mountainous Hindu-Kush region in the north and the violent and dangerous Helmand Province in southern Afghanistan. He kept in touch with friends and family religiously, chronicling his journey through photos and a running commentary that is direct, descriptive, and often humorous. This book captures what he saw, felt, and thought throughout his tour. Unlike most books about war, this story is not about politics, strategy or tactics. It explains what it was like to be there. Rooster captures the essence of place - the smells, sights, and feelings that we would all experience if we had been in his boots. Join Lieutenant Colonel Jones and see what it is like to work and travel in a war-torn country. You will hang on every word.

I especially recommend this book to anyone who is about to deploy to Afghanistan, particularly as an Individual Augmentee. Read the text and relish the rich imagery. You will experience much of it.

DANIEL A. GILEWITCH LTC, ARMOR
Chief, Military Science Division
Department of Military Instruction
United States Military Academy, West Point, NY