Black Chinook, An Army Ranger's Story
David Combs

Reviewed by Dinae Kasperski

This is a well written straight forward account of the different phases of training of an Army Ranger. Mr. Combs tells of his personal experiences while in training throughout all the phases. Without breeching protocol or security he gives detailed descriptions of some of the harrowing missions he was on. From missions in Laos, the Panama Canal and Korea you will get a true picture of what it takes to be an Army Ranger.
 
Mr. Combs tells of his dream of becoming an Army Ranger since he was in college and saw a training documentary on them. He barely made it in because there are only a certain amount of spots available per year. He had told them at the enlistment office that it “was the Rangers or nothing.” He was accepted and went off to the toughest training the Army can provide.
 
‘Black Chinook’ is the name that the Rangers give to death whether while in training (which does happen) or in the line of duty. When a Ranger falls they say the Black Chinook came to take him away. This is a possibility that exists every day of their lives from the moment they start their training. There is a special intensity both physically and mentally that each man who becomes a Ranger must have. Throughout Combs story you will see glimpses of this intensity in himself and the others he served with throughout his tour of duty.
 
I found this an interesting read if not a bit dry. Black Chinook is very matter-of-fact and probably would appeal greatly to others that have been in the service or those curious about what it’s like to be in the special forces. I think it would be a must read for any considering going into the Army Ranger’s so that they would know exactly what it was like.