Charlie Squadron – the iron fist of the South African Defense Force’s 61 Mechanised Battalion Group – led the way on 3 October 1987 during the climactic battle on the Lomba River in Southern Angola.

Not only were they up against a vastly superior force in terms of numbers and weaponry, but they also had to deal with a terrain so dense that both their movement and sight were severely impaired. Despite this, the squadron nearly wiped out the Angolan forces’ 47 Brigade. In Ratels on the Lomba, the reader is taken to the heart of the action in a dramatic recreation based on interviews, diary entries and Facebook contributions by members of Charlie Squadron. It is an intensely human story of how individuals react in the face of death.

“The story of Charlie Squadron is something someone might one day have drawn a picture story about for one of the many war comics that proliferated in the 1970s/1980s. A fantastic account of a climactic battle.”

“This book is a must read for anyone interested in modern armoured warfare and anyone who is mechanised infantry (if we ever get a wheeled IFV). And for all other commanders looking into expeditionary operations where we don't hold the upper hand in technology,firepower and air power...Excellent book,easy to read,couldn't put it down. 5 stars.”

“This book is extremely well written and accessible.”