An account of the day-to-day life and combat experiences of an Afghan interpreter. Readers are introduced to the harsh reality and dangers that many of our Afghan partners face. John's journey from child into manhood is essential reading for those wishing to understand the dynamic culture and dangers facing US/Afghan interpreters. A vivid and introspective glimpse into the life of a combat-tested interpreter. Safi's story is hilarious, terrifying and sorrowing and he is a true voice of the Afghan war.
Pat Flanagan, U.S.Army
John at heart is a US Army grunt who risked everything to fight with American soldiers.
-Bing West, Former Assistant Secretary of Defense, Marine combat veteran and New York Times bestselling author
A wonderful account of exceptional service by one of the many great "terps" who were the unsung heroes of the post-9/11 wars. We could not have operated without these talented, selfless battlefield interpreters. They not only translated from the local language to English and vice versa, they also interpreted the context and situation on the ground for our young men and women on the frontlines of the fighting. What they did was truly invaluable, and this book conveys that very vividly.
General David Petraeus, US Army (Ret.), former Commander of the Surge in Iraq, US Central Command, and Coalition Forces in Afghanistan; former Director of the CIA; co-author of the "NY Times" bestselling book "Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine
There are one in a million encounters in life where you meet people that you know are going to change the world or someone's outlook in life. The American government and our allies owe him a debt of gratitude for the thousands of lives he has saved due to his experience and knowledge. Absolutely grateful for our friendship and family addition
- Command Sergeant Major Kevin Devine, U.S. Army
If you want to know why it is important the US government relocates as many Afghans who aided the US and Coalition Forces, read this book. Nasirullah "John" Safi embodies the thousands of Afghans who risked their lives to support the men and women who fought, negotiated, supported, built, and worked tirelessly for better way of life in Afghanistan after the Taliban. His personal commitment to a better life in America, leaving behind all that had meaning in his world, echoes the early 20th century immigrant experience. Our country needs future citizens like John to make our country, and his native land, better. As you read this book, approach it as if you are sitting on a colorful rug, surrounded and comforted by large pillows and drinking chai while you listen to John tell his story. He delivers his message the Afghan way, through a series of stories, just like history has been passed from generation to generation in Afghanistan. You can almost hear the words on the pages speak to you.
-Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Magennis, U.S. Army
