Stop Screaming I’m Scared Too is the story of a young man who, at the age of 17, decided to join the army, in particular the infantry where he would become a paratrooper. He would go onto serve in East Timor, Pakistan, PNG, Afghanistan and finish his military career in a chinook helicopter as a loadmaster.
Rod Henderson admits he was no ‘war hero’. He just did his job as best he could, while supporting his mates and trying to still have a normal life. He shares how and why PTSD had such an impact on him and his family.
Henderson served for 22 years in the Australian military. The most nerve-racking moment was not while on service in helicopters but undertaking the required HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) course where he was upside down, blindfolded and underwater, strapped in a seat which would not unbuckle.
This is a fascinating insight into life in the military, told with honesty and self-reflection. It gives us an understanding of the training and its consequences, such as accepting brutality during training, posturing and alcoholism, but also deep lasting friendships.
It shows us how the military prepares young men for war so effectively that it becomes almost impossible to shake off their training even when they stop. This is one of the important takeaways from the book, that the military is very effective at creating disciplined soldiers, aviators and sailors but does not have a way of de-programming them so they can fit once more into civilian life. While Rod Henderson found a way, many have not.
Reviewed by Anthony Llewellyn-Evans
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ABOUT THE AUTHORI joined the Australian Regular Army in 1995 and I spent the next 22 years serving Australia during the busiest period in the Army’s history. First as a paratrooper in the infantry, then as a crewman on board Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters. I was fortunate that I deployed numerous times in various roles with some of the finest men and women in the country. Whether it was luck or good training, I survived many near misses along the way which left me with many a story to tell.
I was encouraged to document my experiences and it became some of the best advice I’ve ever followed. Before I knew it, I had written a book, which I hope will inspire other veterans to proudly share their stories of service.
After medically separating from the Army in 2017, I have continued to serve my country, volunteering as a guide at the Australian War Memorial. It is here that I am dedicated to sharing the stories of Australia’s war time past including those of contemporary veterans.
I currently live near Canberra with my wife, our three young boys, two German Shepherds, and a flock of sheep.
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