Suicide Squads: The Men and Machines of World War II Special Operations

By Richard O'Neill

In a detailed exploration of the hazardous 'Special Attack' weapons and forces of World War II, Suicide Squads examines the role of explosive motorboats, midget submarines, human torpedoes and kamikaze aircraft. In addition to weapon development, Richard O'Neil describes the actions themselves including Pearl Harbour, the raid on Sydney Harbour and special forces mission at Guadalcanal, Midway and Okinawa. The bravery of the men from all sides who went to war in suicidal or near-suicidal weapons cannot be overestimated. The story of these special attack forces remains a testimony to ingenuity, desperation and courage.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Batsford
• Release date: Jun 25, 2015
• ISBN: 9781849943215

Richard O'Neill

Richard O'Neill is an internationally acclaimed performance Storyteller, Author and Playwright. He was born and brought up in large traditional, fully nomadic Romani Gypsy family, travelling throughout the North of England and Scotland. His roots are also to be found in the coal mining communities of the North East having family members who worked down the pits. This co-cultural upbringing is reflected in his creative work. As Richard says, 'Gypsy in my heart and coal dust in my veins'.