The Warrior Elite

The Forging of SEAL Class 228

By: Dick Couch

Narrated by: Arthur Morey

Length: 12 hrs and 54 mins

Publisher's summary

With a postscript describing SEAL efforts in Afghanistan, The Warrior Elite takes you into the toughest, longest, and most relentless military training in the world. What does it take to become a Navy SEAL? What makes talented, intelligent young men volunteer for physical punishment, cold water, and days without sleep? In The Warrior Elite, former Navy SEAL Dick Couch documents the process that transforms young men into warriors. SEAL training is the distillation of the human spirit, a tradition-bound ordeal that seeks to find men with character, courage, and the burning desire to win at all costs, men who would rather die than quit.

©2001, 2003 SEAL Productions Limited (P)2011 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Couch has written an exceptionally nuanced and insighful book." ( Washington Post Book World)

Great story, poor narration

Very much enjoyed the story but the narration left a lot to be desired. I’m not sure if it was the voice or the way it was read but I was not a fan of the narrator. Another listener commented on the lackluster “Hooyah” and I agree. Overall worth it if you can get past the narrator.

Great story, pretty good narration

Who was your favorite character and why?

Hard to say, I think the surviving members of the original class 228, especially Lt. Gallagher. All of the men in this book, from the trainees who lasted as long as they could, to the graduating class were incredible men made of tougher stuff then most of us. The SEAL instructors were also amazing. The mix of motivation and pressure is what forges these highly elite warriors.

Need inspiration? Listen to this book!

Have you listened to any of Arthur Morey’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This is my first experience listening to him. I think he was chosen as he has the voice of "wise veteren", but I think they could have gotten someone with just a slight more pep in his voice. The 'Hooyahs' were a tad weak.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Again, so many to choose from. The section on Hell Week stands out, as does the classes final training missions. Again, this book is loaded with inspiring moments.

A good interesting documentary type book.

Makes me want to be a SEAL. HA!!!! Gives me tremendous respect for the men who pursue this life.

Loved the book. Hated the narrator.

I really enjoyed how the author wrote this book. But the narrator REALLY brought this book down. He had no heart or feeling. I read “Lone Survivor”. The guy that narrated that book was excellent.

Great Book

This will be a 5 star book to those who seek more information into the hard work and mental determination that goes into BUD/S training, plus a little extra in the ending :)

Captivating

I love how he portrays seal training. Everyone thinking about joining should read this book first so they see it is not like the movies. Everyone else should read this book and put theirselves into 228’s shoes to gain a respect for the seals and try to pick up in some valuable lessons by proxy that can help their own lives.

Great

It was the complete story of becoming a team member very detailed and very interesting

Phenomenal account of BUD/S class 228 by a retired SEAL

This book is phenomenally written. At times it is repetitive, but I believe that also alludes to how repetitive BUD/S can be… the narrator mispronounced a few words, but that is no big deal. The story itself is phenomenal. The detail of the suffering the candidates endured is spectacular and greatly appreciated. I recommend this book to practically anyone, as it gives a perspective of what Navy SEALs go through that is nearly invaluable.

Good Insider Book On Seal Training

Where does The Warrior Elite rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

This was a good book on all aspects of Seal BUDS training. It was especially good since written by a former Navy Seal. He added a lot of insight into the whole process. Woudl recommend it to any military buffs. The book is even motivational after hearing what these guys go through on a daily basis.

Awesome

Great book it takes you into the BUDS class of 228 and tells about their personal training and comment win