GSG 9: From Munich to Mogadishu: The Birth of Germany's Counterterrorism Force

“… provides a compelling narrative of GSG 9’s genesis and its most important mission." – Journal of Military HistoryIn October 1977, an unknown German police unit made global headlines by storming a hijacked Lufthansa airliner in Mogadishu, Somalia. Operatives of GSG 9 freed 86 hostages, eliminated three of the four terrorists, and emerged with a near-total victory. This daring rescue left the world in awe, including the U.S. military. President Carter asked, “Do we have the same capability as the West Germans?” The answer was no—and it was this realization that impelled the creation of Delta Force.This gripping book is the first comprehensive English-language history of GSG 9, tracing its roots back to the 1972 Munich Olympics Massacre, which exposed the world’s unpreparedness for modern terrorism. Formed in the aftermath, GSG 9 quickly evolved from a fledgling unit housed in makeshift barracks to an elite force. Author and journalist Martin Herzog draws from extensive research, German and international archives, and interviews with GSG 9 veterans and active members, including recent commander Robert Hemmerling. This deeply researched narrative chronicles GSG 9’s humble beginnings, the vision of its founder Ulrich Wegener, and the evolving strategies that have made the unit one of the best in the world. Covering the rigorous training, recruitment, and modern-day operations of GSG 9, this book offers readers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of the most respected special operations forces in the world.Table of ContentsIntroductionGlossary1. “Merry Games” in Munich2. Troops against Terror3. Wegener in Israel4. Humble Beginnings5. Border Guard Cowboys6. Training World Champions7. A Year Full of Autumn8. Schleyer Manhunt9. Odyssey to Africa 10. Operation Feuerzauber (“Fire Magic”)11. Birth of a Legend12. Circus Wegener13. Export Hit GSG914. Beyond the LegendAppendix: East Germany’s “GSG9”List of interviewees / Short Biographies of the Main EyewitnessesMap of Mediterranean and Middle East with Path of Flight LH-181Illustration of the approach and storm of the LandshutBibliographyIndex Read more