Richard, Richard Marcinko, Mr. Dick, Mr Rick, Demo Dick

Richard Marcinko is the central character of the book, which is an autobiographical account. From an early age, Richard is an independent youngster. He is not interested in school, but is very interested in making money and chasing women. He decides to enlist in the Navy and soon decides that his goal is to become a Special Forces operative. He joins the frogmen, and later the SEALs. Meanwhile, Richard marries Kathy Black and has two children. He receives a college education and becomes an officer. Richard is most proud of leading two units in Vietnam and killing many of the enemy. He is mainly focused on his unit and its success and survival. He has some views on making the military a better killing machine, but has little thought of overall strategy.

Richard decides to pursue a career in the...