The Search for Puma 164: Operation Uric and the Assault on Mapai Hardcover – June 1, 2011

I have rated this 5 star, simply because of the amount of research and facts that have been collated for its telling. It is especially pertinent to those of us who were from that part of the world, and who, as best we could, served in the armed forces, to make a stand against the forces of evil. Events today have shown how our stand was indeed a principled one, a brave one against all odds, and yet it was wiped off the map by a flurry of politicians in their thirst for power, aided and abetted by others keen to wipe it from their agendas.Furthermore, the book, story and it's authors, have brought both closure and a long overdue explanation to the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in that operation. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to them all, along with a salute of absolute pride and respect for their bravery.The fact that the truth has at last been revealed, and the honesty and compassion in which it has been told, was for me, a reminder of the bravery, not only of the men who fell, but also of all their families, friends and loved ones. It is both heart wrenching and very poignant.A must read for those from that era, and beyond!

It's amazing how the fortunes of war can change with the blink of an eye. To believe that someone could target an inbound helo with such limited background or education on the system is problematic. However the impact of the downing of the helo had a major impact on the Rhodesian/SADF forces involved. Rather than lose more men, the higher brass called off the assault on Mapai when they were so close to complete victory.Could not put the book down.

Inspiring to follow the discoveries, the planning, the return, the marking of discoveredsites, the ceremony(s) honouring those who perished, the recording, the write upfor present 'victims' who were left behind, the reference material included in thisamazing book for those in the future who may want to plan their own visit into suchisolated areas is an absolute treasure. Thank you Neill Jackson and TEAM forproducing a remarkable book on the history of the "forgotten" "bush war". Withoutthis evidence, there would be a huge loss of history not available to anyone interestedin what took place during Operation Uric. In particular the families who were neverable to 'move on'. Thank you.

This is a sad but triumphant book, extremely well written. It explains the battle in which the Puma and the fourteen young men were lost. However it is the search for their final resting place that grips you and makes this an unforgettable book. The care of the villages in the area where the graves are show the respect that rural Africans have for the dead, no matter who they were. I confess that I cried a little reading this book but it was wonderful to see that the families finally had closure.A great read and one that has to be in your Africana library.

What a great, moving story of what happened to our brave men killed on that raid. I remember that weekend as clear as day even though we were still at school. I taped the commentary of the match Rhodesia vs Natal from the radio. I wish I still had it to listen again. Thank-you to Neill Jackson & Rick Van Malsen for recording this story & keeping our history alive. I can not imagine how it would have felt for the families of these men. Thankyou again to everyone involved.

Having been part of both the overt and covert South African Rhodesia "aid" era I can only say "What a truly emmotionaland moving read" This book stirred memories and emotions I did not think still existed. A MUST READ for allwho served in this war.

Incredible research into an event that while not momentous in a global sense was the forerunner of many things to come.

Great ready for those from the region and interested in understanding the history of the region. Sad at times but true stories.