Published: Wednesday, 4th November, 2009 5:30pm

Ex-Athlone army man pens book on his military career

by Danielle Harney

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A part-time author living in Ferbane has written a book of poetry inspired by his long career in the army.

"In Search of the Wadi Monster? - A Soldier's Life'' by James Dee, is full of witty, nostalgic and slightly irreverent tales of Irish army and UN service during a long career in both uniforms.

Tales from over 30 years in the army are told in chapter, pen picture and verse, and the book is very easy to read. From tales about being bought by the army for five pounds, to peacekeeping in foreign lands where white-washing seemed to be a favourite past-time of Irish troops, this book has everything you need to know about army life especially for a young recruit back in the 1960s.

James writes a lot about his several peacekeeping duties, a fertile ground for storytelling. He toured Lebanon four times and served in Cyprus twice. The title of his new book is taken from the fictional "beings" that inhibit the Wadis (valleys) of the Middle East. There's also an enlightening glossary of army slang!

James joined the army in his home county of Limerick when he was just 17 years old and spent the last part of his career based in Custume Barracks. Retired since 1995, he has been an army ranger, army driver, a member of the Military Police Special Investigation Branch in Athlone and an Infantry Sergeant.

James began writing to pass the time and sine 2007, has now written four books. His first book '...And Bring Your Bowley!' recounted his childhood living in the east Limerick countryside during the 1950s and 60s, with his 11 siblings. He lives just outside of Ferbane with his wife Catherine, who is his proofreader and critic.

"In Search of the Wadi Monster" is available in Easons bookshop in Athlone Towncentre.