The Operator

by Robert O’Neill
The Operator cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Biography and Memoir
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 2069
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-12
  • ISBN: 9781501145032
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2017-04-25
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Operator is a riveting account of Robert O'Neill's extraordinary career as a SEAL Team Operator, spanning over 400 missions and culminating in the historic takedown of Osama bin Laden. From his childhood in Montana to the rigorous training and intense combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, O'Neill shares the harrowing details of his experiences, the camaraderie and loss among his fellow SEALs, and the relentless pursuit of justice in the war on terror. /n/n This memoir provides a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the life of an elite warrior, highlighting the strategic precision, black humor, and unyielding determination that define the SEAL Teams. O'Neill's firsthand account of the mission that killed bin Laden offers unprecedented insight into one of the most significant moments in modern military history.

Reviews
Reddit - r/navyseals · 2025-10-11
entertaining 3.50

The book is entertaining and humorous, with the author's personality shining through. However, some readers might prefer other memoirs by former SEALs.

This Reddit discussion highlights that the book is both entertaining and humorous, with the author's unique personality making it a standout. While some readers find it engaging and enjoyable, others might prefer different memoirs by former SEALs. The humor and personal anecdotes add a layer of entertainment that sets this book apart from more serious military accounts.

Quick quotes

    He's a funny guy and he's definitely entertaining.

    I still prefer Bissonette's books, but this one is pretty good.

    The humor and personal stories make it a fun read.

Waterstones · 2018-04-05
amazing 4.50

The book is praised as one of the best accounts of a Navy SEAL's life, offering an in-depth look at the author's experiences. It stands out for its authenticity and detailed portrayal of military operations.

This review from Waterstones commends the book as one of the most authentic and detailed accounts of a Navy SEAL's life. The author's firsthand experiences provide a unique and captivating perspective on military operations. The book is particularly noted for its depth and the way it brings the reader into the heart of the action, making it a must-read for those interested in military memoirs.

Quick quotes

    What an amazing book! I've read many books about SF guys and I have to say this is by far the best.

    Real in depth about stages in his career and the missions he was involved in.

    This is by far the best account I've read of a Navy SEAL's life.

Goodreads · 2017-04-25
gripping 4.00

The memoir vividly recounts the nonstop action of deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, highlighting the black humor and camaraderie of long-term combat. It provides a raw and unfiltered look into the life of a Navy SEAL.

This memoir is a gripping account of a Navy SEAL's experiences, particularly focusing on the intense and often humorous aspects of prolonged combat. The author's descriptions of his deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan are both harrowing and engaging, offering readers a unique perspective on military life. The book doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of war, making it a compelling read for those interested in military memoirs.

Quick quotes

    The Operator describes the nonstop action of O'Neill's deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, evoking the black humor of years-long combat.

    It brings to life the camaraderie and brotherhood among the SEALs, as well as the sheer terror and adrenaline of being in the line of fire.

    O'Neill's writing is raw and unfiltered, providing a stark and honest portrayal of the realities of war.

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