The Little Men: An Afghanistan Diary

The Little Men is a book that tells the real story of Operation Herrick 8, from the point of view of the poor bloody infantry. It is full of details that only such a source can provide, such as the courage, loyalty, and sacrifice of the soldiers. It is still to be determined if it was all worth it, but the effort should never be forgotten.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

In 2008, the Helmand Province in Afghanistan held the dubious distinction of being the most perilous place on Earth. At the helm of 12 Platoon Delta Company, 5 SCOTS, was George McCafferty, who led his troops through the grueling fighting season. McCafferty kept a diary, documenting his experiences and observations. During this time, Ross Kemp, a journalist from Sky News, accompanied the platoon to film and report on the ongoing conflict.

One day, as they traversed the desolate terrain, McCafferty and Kemp encountered a peculiar scene. "Ross, what's wrong with this picture?" McCafferty asked, his eyebrows knitted in concern. Kemp looked around, his eyes scanning the barren landscape for any signs of life. "No civvies!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise. "Not a single civilian in sight," McCafferty confirmed. What was even more striking was the complete absence of noise and the absence of the call to prayer, which typically marked the start and end of the day in the region.

The Little Men, a book that delves into the real story of Operation Herrick 8, offers an unvarnished account from the perspective of the infantrymen who bore the brunt of the conflict. It provides a wealth of details that only a firsthand source could offer, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and hardships faced by these brave soldiers.

One such detail is the story of Scotty McGregor, a diminutive gunner who stood just five feet tall. Despite his size, McGregor was chosen for the role of Gimpy gunner due to his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication. Carrying a heavy patrol pack that weighed over 100 pounds, McGregor carried a staggering 800 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and a spare barrel. His ability to control his bursts and maintain a clear understanding of his fall of shot ensured that he never ran out of ammunition during intense firefights.

McCafferty and Kemp were struck by the courage, loyalty, and sacrifice displayed by the men in their platoon. They witnessed firsthand the bravery and selflessness of their fellow soldiers as they faced the relentless threat of enemy fire and the treacherous terrain. The question of whether all of this effort was worth it remained unanswered, but McCafferty and Kemp believed that the memories and experiences of these men should never be forgotten.

The Little Men serves as a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of the infantry and their unwavering commitment to protecting their fellow soldiers and their country. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by these men and women and the importance of honoring their memory and legacy. As we reflect on the conflicts that have shaped our world, let us remember the bravery and resilience of the infantry and the sacrifices they have made for our freedom and security.

Weight: 680g
Dimension: 167 x 247 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398114036