Cook, Baker, Candlestick Maker

"Frank Skinner does a great job describing 'the times'.
From a guy that was there, Frank is the 'Real Deal'."

--Larry Barrett, Master Chief Petty Officer (Ret), Plank owner of "Seal Team Six and Red Cell"

“Definitely a ‘must read’ for tacticians, future leaders and historians.
The author captures the human endeavors necessary to accomplish and
obviously enjoy in order to pioneer the development of a continual facet
of warfare, and meeting the challenges of the changing threats in both
military and commercial arenas.”
Richard Marcinko aka Rogue Warrior
I am impressed with Frank Skinner’s descriptions of scenes, events, and conversations which he had over the years in the Arab World. They ring true and authentic, and present a good insight into his cordial personal and working relations. This book is excellent as a guide of what to expect when engaged in security work in the region.

Dr. Margaret Nydell
Former professor of Arabic, Georgetown University
Author, Understanding Arabs

Cook, Baker, Candlestick Maker - A unique insight as to the real world of Special Operations and Diplomacy.

Frank delves into the back office deals, extreme courage and unparalleled sacrifice made by our behind-the-scene warriors. It takes us from the jungles of Viet Nam to the streets and alleys of Beirut, Bogota, Cairo, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other North African hot spots. Frank has been involved in Anti and Counter Terror training and operations since 1983. He is a recognized expert in explosives, IED's, Terror Trends and Terror Groups. Frank was a "Special Skills Instructor" teaching Close Quarters Battle (CQB), Firearms, Offensive and Defensive Driving, Surveillance Detection, Personal Defensive measures, Arab Language and IED/EOD countermeasures.

This book is written in the words of Frank without a ghost writer or marketing input. It is written, as it happened. It is a true depiction of the real world, both personal and professional. Names were changed and operational details were altered, in some cases, to protect those that are still operating. Those that were there will recognize the scenarios. It covers the stress of raising a new family while travelling to the hot spots and the loving support of his devoted wife Susan. All audiences will enjoy this gutsy approach to adventure, romance and frustration. Frank is in the process of writing Book II. Cook, Baker, Candlestick Maker is based on his exploits up until he retired from the Marines in 1990.

The Detonator Book Review

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Me and "The SgtMajor"