The freelance soldier, or mercenary, whether fighting for moneyor reputation or an adopted cause, has always been a fascinatingand controversial phenomenon. Now, as a result of the situationsin Iraq and Afghanistan, he has become not simply a mercenarybut a vital part of modern and privatized warfare. For some, he isa heroic figure, doing the work governments are too squeamish toadmit to; for others, he is a bloodthirsty killer. In Tony Geraghtyrs"s startling history, he sheds new light on theiractivities, which has until now been shrouded in secrecy. Manyof the soldiers have spoken to the author about their experiencesfor the first time, revealing details of operations that have neverbefore been reported in the media.