The Giant Killer

American Hero, Mercenary, Spy... The Incredible True Story of the Smallest Man to Serve in the U.S. Military - Green Beret Captain Richard J. Flaherty

By: David A. Yuzuk, Neil L. Yuzuk

Narrated by: Steven Wenger

At 4' 9" 97 lbs, Richard J. Flaherty is believed to be the smallest man to ever serve in the US military. Needing a congressional waiver just to join the army, he achieved the impossible by becoming a Green Beret captain and a Vietnam vet war hero, earning the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and two Purple Hearts - 101st Airborne and 3rd Special Forces Group.

Author and police officer David Yuzuk befriended Richard J. Flaherty in 1999, when Flaherty was living homeless on the streets of Miami. Flaherty warned Yuzuk that asking too many questions about his secretive life could be bad for Yuzuk’s career and dangerous to his own health. Sure enough, eight hours after Yuzuk made a call to confirm Flaherty’s identity, Flaherty was killed in a hit-and-run and that set the stage for a bewildering plummet down a rabbit hole of CIA conspiracies and shadow governments. It would be the last investigation in Yuzuk's 20-year police career, stretching from the bloody jungles of Vietnam to the dangerous streets of Iraq and Venezuela.

In riveting rifle, rucksack style author David Yuzuk takes you deep into the jungles of Vietnam to walk in the combat boots of America’s smallest soldier, Richard Flaherty. Starting with the bloody Tet Offensive, Flaherty and his units are engaged in harrowing, nonstop action. Written with extensive access to surviving members of the 101st Airborne and 3rd Special Forces Group, on-the-ground eyewitnesses, family members, and friends, as well as archival and declassified military records, Yuzuk has created a gripping narrative of Richard Flaherty’s inspiring life and career. Yuzuk also releases never published information of a covert operation Flaherty worked in order to locate and recover a recently declassified stolen weapon of mass destruction (Project Green Light).

Number one New York Times best seller.

"Giant Killers are among us - author David Yuzuk walked with one and returned with this tale.” (Doug Stanton, author)

©2020 David Yuzuk (P)2020 David Yuzuk

l had to make a choice.

struggled to finish.
l got interested in other subjects.
I t was not the subject.

The Giant Killer, such a good read

I loved hearing about the giant killer Richard Flaherty. The story grabs you right from the start. Having served in the military 23 years I have a huge respect for those that served especially those from the Vietnam War. I would love to know more about this man and those mentioned in this book.

Great story with EXCELLENT narration.

The story was interesting and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed the narrators voice and characters. excellent book overall!

Amazing story

I think the idea that each person has a story , and the universal truth that no one knows the whole story and that perceptions can be wrong are themes of this sad, truth of our service men and women.
I am so glad his story was not lost.

Awesome Read!

From the very first page of The Giant Killer, the author weaves a compelling narrative that completely captivates the reader. The story is a masterful blend of thrilling action, deeply human emotions, and thought-provoking themes, making it impossible to put down.

What stands out most is the depth of the characters. The protagonist’s journey is not just one of physical challenges but also of internal growth and discovery. Each character feels authentic, with their own struggles and triumphs that resonate with the reader. The stakes are high, and the vivid descriptions pull you into every scene, making you feel like you’re right there in the heart of the action.

The pacing is perfect—just the right balance of tension and resolution, keeping you on the edge of your seat without feeling rushed. The author’s attention to detail brings the world of The Giant Killer to life, making it both tangible and immersive.

Beyond its entertainment value, the story also offers meaningful commentary on courage, sacrifice, and the human spirit. It challenges the reader to reflect on what it truly means to stand up against overwhelming odds.

Overall, The Giant Killer is a must-read for anyone who loves a gripping tale that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page. I highly recommend it and am eagerly awaiting more from this talented author.

My top 2 listens on Audible

Richard Flaherty remains an enigma in death as he did in life. The only way to see that is this honest investment into the actual man he was.

Intrigue, danger, endless tunnels

I was immediately drawn into the story by the way Captain Flaherty's character was introduced.
From that moment I had a hard time taking the necessary breaks in between listening.
I was shaking my head in certain parts when I read of our government's involvement in so many other countries internal affairs. Lots of those moments where I was surprised/not surprised.
I gained a whole new level of respect for the men of the armed special forces. The situations they were often placed in were full of danger. And yet they returned and fought for the country they believed in.
I'm sure there are many more stories similar to this where we are left with more questions than answers.

Storytelling

I usually take a while to finish audiobooks, but I was so invested in this one that I finished it in two days. The story teaches you how not to judge a book by its cover and reminds you that everyone has a story.

A very eye opening inspiring listen

Very interesting and inspiring listen very well done for a first time author, narration is very well done and calming

Amazing story

What an amazing story about an amazing person! Wow….can’t believe I haven’t listened to this before now!