Supplemental Commentary from
Warriors, Authors, and Historians

Here’s a chance for an inside look at some of the most controversial periods of world military history from a unique perspective. It’s not often readers get a chance to mine first-hand observations from a warrior who fought in the Boer War as well as the Spanish Civil War. The insights are fascinating and the authors back them with solid period context. This is no dry recitation of historical facts. It’s a powerful recounting of pivotal world events from an African perspective. The detail recounted in chapters on Rhodesia and the famed Selous Scouts is encompassing and intriguing.

—Captain Dale Dye, United States Marine Corps (Ret.), Warriors, Inc.

Pieter Krueler was a warrior I have to admire. Whether he was fighting as an insurgent, or against insurgents, his perseverance, adaptability and ingenuity as one of the fathers of special operations is seen here in its genesis. I know of no one else who can match his unique and collective experience, such as the longest infantry reconnaissance patrol in history, over 1,300 miles. I would have readily followed him into battle, and dreaded the prospect of fighting against him. His ability to learn from his enemies, educate his allies, live off the land, adjust to the ever changing combat condition, and survive the harshest variable environments and battles Africa had to offer hallmark this man, and the proud legacy of those select few, the cream of the elite who would later become the Selous Scouts. This book is a must read for anyone who wears a uniform, leads men into battle, or plans on fighting against those who do not conform to conventional warfare methods. Outstanding!

—Colonel Robert Howard, United States Army (Ret.)
U.S. Army Special Forces, Medal of Honor, Vietnam

While I never had to suffer the tribulations and challenges of the elite ground forces, I can look at this book as a tactical bible. Leading men into combat is the most challenging and noble of human endeavors, and Krueler did so without the benefit of formal training. He was bred for warfare. His guts and his inherent genius allowed him to survive, and keep his men alive, but his humanity comes through, which is perhaps the most honorable aspect of his legacy.

—Brigadier General Robin Olds, United States Air Force

Krueler’s story is one of high adventure, deadly incessant combat, and the evolution of warfare from cavalry to the nuclear age. His life as a warrior came full circle, from Boer commando as a boy to helping establish anticommunist special operations in Africa. A gripping tale, his prophecies regarding his own nation are chilling in retrospect. A must-read for all military leaders.

—Major General James E. Livingston, United States
Marine Corps (Ret.), Medal of Honor, Vietnam

Four-War Boer is the fascinating story of Pieter Krueler; a warrior in the truest sense of the word. From his service in the Boer War, to fighting with von Lettow in East Africa, to fighting as a mercenary with “Mad” Mike Hoare in the Congo before training Rhodesia’s famed Selous Scouts, Four-War Boer is essential reading for every serious military historian.

—Andrew Lubin, author & defense analyst

Though Pieter Krueler may not be a household name his legacy of leadership, intense ground fighting, and valor under the most unforgiving conditions redefines the meaning of “guts.” His life-long tale of courage, sacrifice, and lessons learned should be woven into the curriculum at every level of command—from Platoon Leader to Division Commander. Krueler is indeed a special breed of man whose legacy will remain forged in the annals of military history. Simply put, Pieter Krueler is one of a kind.

—Dr. Steve Greer, Command Sergeant Major,
United States Army Special Forces (Ret.)

This is a must-read for anyone leading men in combat or for those who ever wondered what close-in combat was really like. Probably the best description of warfare that I have ever read and of the heroism that was demonstrated on the battlefield. Krueler was indeed one of a kind and to have one individual schooled in so many critical areas of combat makes him an example for all who may need to close with and do the hard fighting with an armed enemy. Combat that is up close becomes very personal and there is no greater test of your fortitude, tenacity and ability to stand your ground. Krueler was not only a master of these traits but was able to teach these skills that are absolutely essential for winning the day. I cannot emphasize enough the lessons that are taught in this book and that must be mastered by Privates through Generals in order to be successful in the toughest tests you will face in a lifetime.

—Jack Deichman, Lieutenant Colonel,
United States Marine Corps (Ret.),
Bronze Star, and Purple Heart Medal
awardee for the Battle of Dai Do in Viet Nam

A captivating story of a South African boy who came of age during the Boer War and went on to become a warrior. Pieter Krueler’s story is the tale of a boy destined to make history during two world wars and conflicts in his beloved Africa. Following his life is learning military history. This is one of those books that capture you in the very first pages. I could not put it down.

— Walter S. Zapotoczny Jr., Sergeant Major,
U. S. Army Historian (Ret.)