SCOUTS OUT! - Robicheaux, Ryan

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Résumé :
The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior-a deep reconnaissance scout and attack aircraft-was legendary to those it supported. Regularly flying mere feet off of the ground while intentionally drawing enemy fire, almost everyone called Kiowa pilots crazy. Responsible for hunting elusive enemy fighters and protecting those under their charge, Kiowa crews displayed a fierce and intense devotion that was unparalleled. Through the vantage point of a Kiowa Warrior helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army's Air Cavalry, Scouts Out! offers a truly unique view of the war in Afghanistan. This is accomplished by revealing a deeply personal journey through two deployments, documenting the day-to-day life, struggles, combat, and extreme challenges faced. The after effects of these experiences can be witnessed as Ryan's outlook and very personality are forever altered and changed in unexpected ways. Drawing from copious journals and notes, everything captured in Scouts Out! is raw, real, and in-the-moment. In addition to Ryan's writing, other Kiowa pilots have contributed written accounts which add further balance and enhancement to the story. Of critical importance to note, an approachable style was maintained that always kept the non-military reader in mind. The result is an immersive and rounded out experience which gives a fascinating glimpse into the little known operations of a Kiowa Warrior squadron participating in Operation Enduring Freedom. Richly illustrated with 70 original photographs and maps, Scouts Out! presents an essential and accurate narrative of the conflict in Afghanistan, something that has rarely been shared with the public. Devoid of the filler and misleading propaganda that is so pervasive in modern media and writing, Scouts Out! is an engrossing true story from America's longest and least understood war.

Biographie:
Right out of high school, 9/11 spurred Ryan to join the Army National Guard as a medic. Upon graduating from college, he transferred into the active duty component of the Army, becoming a warrant officer and attending flight school. He deployed twice to Afghanistan as an OH-58D Kiowa Warrior pilot assigned to 3-17 Cavalry-one year out of Bagram Airbase, and nearly a year out of Kandahar. After returning from Kandahar, Ryan separated from the Army and became an airline pilot. Time served in Afghanistan has resulted in a slightly busted verbal filter, a bent yet vibrant sense of humor, and a drive to stay involved with and support fellow veterans. He wishes to simply appreciate and enjoy life, and his wife Lindsey, daughter Robin, and dog Scout are his world. Additionally, in expected fashion, he loves: the outdoors, the smell of gunpowder and jet exhaust, single malt scotch, smoked jerky, strong coffee, and freedom.