Since 1854 the Victoria Cross has been the highest award for
gallantry in the British Armed Forces. It bears the simple legend
''For Valour'', but behind it are thrilling and ultimately humbling
tales of unimaginable bravery. "Supreme Courage" tells the tales of
some of those who have won the medal, bringing this badge of honour
alive with breath-taking accounts of courage in action. Visiting
battle-scenes across the globe, peppering his accounts with letters
and first-hand accounts, Sir Peter de la Billiere uncovers not just
heroism but the hearts and minds of men. With his accounts of
Australians, Canadians, New Zealanders, Indians and the Gurkhas,
Sir Peter de la Billiere does more than accompany the man into
battle. He reveals their backgrounds, the climate of their times,
what it was that drove them on, and the price of fame - the burden
of expectation in civilian life that accompanied more than one
recipient to a pauper''s grave. Extraordinary and intensely moving,
"Supreme Courage" is a thrilling addition to the literature of war,
and a unique and magnificent monument to heroism.
關於作者:
Sir Peter was born in 1934. He lost his father in WW2 and
joined the army as a private in 1952, becoming an officer in 1955.
In 1956 he joined the SAS. He was made Commander of the British
Forces during the first Gulf War and knighted in 1992.