Overview

Retired after 12 years in the military, Robert Kurtz had never deployed to war, so when he got the opportunity to deploy to Iraq as a private security contractor, he did not hesitate. The two and a half years he spent in Iraq and the people he met would change his life profoundly. Recounts 21/2 years of a security contractor's profound experiences in Iraq, blending gripping vignettes of firefights, cultural encounters, and the human cost of conflict. A candid and multifaceted look at life as a security contractor in Iraq in the early years after the American invasion. It's not just a story of surviving IEDs and firefights while protecting American contractors--though those moments are vividly recounted--it's also an exploration of the broader, often unexpected, experiences that defined the author's two and a half years in Iraq. Structured as a series of concise, self-contained chapters, the book captures a wide range of events and encounters: high-speed crashes, tense standoffs with Iraqi security forces, the ever-present uncertainty of knowing who to trust, and the toll of living in a warzone--but outside the protection of the military--on contractors, clients, and locals alike. The focus isn't just on action but also on the everyday challenges and the strategies necessary to stay safe in such a dangerous and unpredictable environment. The book introduces the diverse people the author met through his work, from former Green Berets, British Royal Marines and South African commandos, through to Gurkhas, a former member of the French Foreign Legion, and even a Buddhist monk. There are stories of heroic, larger-than-life figures and of outlaws who came to Iraq because they didn't fit in anywhere else and ended up not fitting in there either. It also delves into the lives of Iraqi civilians, who offered glimpses of kindness and humanity amid the chaos. These stories provide listeners with a nuanced and personal perspective on a challenging and complex chapter of modern conflict.

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Reviews

""A rollicking, riveting inside look at the life and times of a security contractor downrange. Kurtz navigates the story with perfection, doing a masterful job of showing that amid the uncertainty, the danger, and flat-out weirdness, he found a deep and profound meaning--along with the best and worst of humanity. Beautifully told, with humor and insight. This is one that you will read and reread with relish."" -- ""Soldier of Fortune "" ""An insightful and captivating glimpse into the life of a private security contractor in Iraq, Mercenaries, Gunslingers, and Outlaws delivers an unforgettable journey into the realities of warzone contracting that immerses readers in a world where humor, resilience, and survival intertwine. This isn't a book about shootouts or secret missions; it's a raw and honest portrayal of everyday life in a high-stakes environment, packed with enough detail to make you feel like you were there. Kurtz's knack for storytelling balances laughter, tension, and introspection, making this a must-read for anyone curious about the grit, ingenuity, and humanity behind the headlines."" -- ""USACarry.com""

Author Information

Robert Kurtz is a veteran with a graduate degree and years of experience as an international private security contractor. Besides Iraq, he has worked in hot spots worldwide including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jordan, Israel, the Palestinian West Bank, and Lebanon. An expert in all aspects of personal and operational security, he has written over 150 articles for online magazines on firearms, security, travel safety, and military topics, as well as his time in Iraq. In his life he has climbed mountains, explored ghost towns, commanded a tank platoon, and crossed the North Atlantic during winter storms. John McLain is an actor, professional voice talent, and Earphones Award-winning narrator. He has been a finalist for the prestigious Audie Award for best narration. On stage, he has appeared in The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, Amahl & the Night Visitors, and The Music Man.

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