Raider: The True Story of the Legendary Soldier Who Performed More POW Raids Than Any Other American in History

by Charles W. Sasser

Book Overview

Raider is the true story of the legendary soldier who performed more POW raids than any other American in history.

He went into battle as a boy. And on one of the most daring missions of World War II, he became a man-- and the perfect soldier for America's next wars...

Galen Charles Kittleson was slight, modest, and born to wage war. The son of an Iowa farmer, Kittleson volunteered in 1943 and caught the eye of his commanders...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0312360657
• ISBN13: 9780312360658
• Release Date: November 2006
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

I grew up with Gay. He was a great man, very very wise

I grew up with gay as a mentor and family friend. He was such a great man commanded respect, but also gave respect when respect was due. He was very giving and generous, and a great Alamo scout leader I was very sad when I heard he had passed.

Refreshing

Galen Kittleson lived an honorable life and participated in some amazing military operations. His story is well told and does not portray him as larger than life. He comes across as the consummate quiet professional. Excellent insight into POW rescue operations during WWII and Vietnam. A quick and easy book to read.

This man was my Team Sergeant - excellent book

I had the honor of being Team Leader of A-402/A-403 for a short period while Galen Kittleson was Team Sergeant and about to leave Vietnam. He was a very steadying force in our unit and greatly admired for his dedicated service and exploits in WW II, the Korean War, and in the Vietnam War. He was also a very gentle and compassionate man. The book's a must read for all soldiers and anyone wanting insight into a real hero, superb gentleman, family man, and all-round great person. However I didn't particularly care for the author's constant use of "Little Sergeant" as an aka for Galen; though only 5'8" he was built like a refrigerator and no one in our unit considered him "little." De Oppresso Liber

A forever friend gone but never forgotten. God Bless.

I served with CSM Kittleson in 1973, on Okinawa, in 1st SFG. He was a father figure to me and kept me, a young soldier in line.... if you enjoy reading exciting and educational books I suggest reading this one.

CSM Galen Kettleson

Galen Kettleson is the most courages person that has inspired many people though out his life. Reading this book has given me a much higher respect for this man. Kettleson has been a friend of my family for close to thirty years, on May 4th 2006, Galen passed away. We have lost a true American Hero. ALAMO ALL THE WAY

A Raider but not a barbarian!

Galen Kittleson's uncanny ability to see the enemy first and valor under fire behind enemy lines are legend. I just finished his biography and am thankful for his service to his country. Through Charles Sasser's words the persona of Kittleson is clear and his humility is reminiscent of medal of honor recipients.I gained insight into the horrific conditions of our prisoners of WWII (especially Baatan) and Viet Nam (Son Tay and Hanoi Hilton) and the bravery of men like Galen Kittleson who dared try to return them home. De Opresso Liber. Thank you Command Sargeant Major Kittleson. You are the epitome of a Special Forces Quiet Professional.