IN THE SERVICE OF THE SULTAN.
by Ian Gardiner, Seconded from the Royal Marines, 1973 - 75 (Later Brigadier)
Published by Pen & Sword Books Ltd 2006 (Select the book image)

"Ian Gardiner creates a graphic yet very accurate account of what it was like to serve with the Sultan's Armed Forces at a critical period of the Dhofar Insurgency and the civil development that was essential for success during the campaign.

Many of the personalities he mentions featured in my own sphere of training contacts.

Ian's book is a gripping read which brings back memories of some exceptional soldiers." - DJC

WE WON A WAR.
by John Akehurst, Seconded as Commander (Brigadier) Dhofar Brigade, 1974-76
Michael Russell (Publishing) Ltd -1982- (Not currently in print)

"John Akehurst, (later General Sir John Akehurst), provides a strategic military history of the Dhofar 'war', in particular 1974 - 1975, and as the Brigadier in Dhofar at the official conclusion of hostilities, he was well qualified to pen his personal touch to the leadership, prowess and success he achieved.

His book is modestly forthright about the events leading to the conclusion of the Campaign and is a worthy read for those able to obtain a copy or who wish to study Military History in the Middle East."

Postscript - "Brigadier John also 'suffered' as we learned colloquial 'Jaysh Arabic' at the Army School of Languages before moving to Oman. I remember well, during shared weekend car travel to Warminster, the passenger shuffled translation cards and questioned on arabic or english translations. Not a minute was wasted in our language learning.

I had the pleasure of renewing our acquaintance in 1986 when he was representing HM Government on a visit to Saudi Arabia at the conclusion of a Military School of Signals Construction Project with which I had six years of involvement.

Sadly, General Sir John died in February 2007 "
- DJC

OMAN'S INSURGENCIES - The Sultanate's Struggle for Supremacy

J. E. Peterson has produced a detailed history concentrating on the 1950's Jebel Akhdar War of Northern Oman and the 1960s - 70s Dhofar War of the South of Oman.

It elaborates on the changes in Oman produced by the transition from a tribal state which was only partly controlled to a now modern regime, inclusive and progressive, and the development of success in terms of security and the formation of modern armed forces.

"A detailed account of what happened, many of the personalities involved, and the book creates an interesting insight into the political and military support given by Great Britain."

- DJC