Neil L. Yuzuk Knihy

At 4' 9" and 97 lbs, Richard J. Flaherty was the shortest man to serve in the U.S. Army, yet he became a celebrated Green Beret Captain and war hero. His journey from a bullied recruit to a leader of the 101st Airborne and 3rd Special Forces Group is remarkable. Flaherty earned the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and two Purple Hearts during his service in Vietnam, where his leadership was put to the test during the Tet Offensive. However, his military career ended abruptly in 1971 due to a Reduction in Force, leading him into the murky world of mercenary work. Flaherty's intelligence and skills caught the attention of the CIA, which recruited him for clandestine operations, including supplying the Contras in Central America. His life became a whirlwind of adventure involving weapons smuggling, cash, and dangerous missions. Author David Yuzuk, who befriended Flaherty in 1999 while he was homeless, learned of the risks involved in uncovering Flaherty's past. Tragically, just hours after Yuzuk confirmed Flaherty's identity, Flaherty was killed in a hit-and-run, leaving behind a legacy of courage and intrigue.