First Man In : Leading from the Front

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NUMBER 1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER No one is born a leader, but through determination and facing challenges, Ant Middleton has discovered the essence of true leadership. In this compelling narrative, he shares the core lessons from his exhilarating life. Special forces training is grueling, with strict rules that push recruits beyond their physical limits. Admitting defeat is seen as failure, and to survive the selection process, one must possess toughness, aggression, meticulous attention to detail, and unyielding self-discipline—traits essential for effective leadership. After 13 years in the military, including 4 years as a Special Boat Service (SBS) sniper, Ant embodies what it takes to excel. He served in the SBS, the Royal Marines, and 9 Parachute Squadron Royal, achieving the prestigious 'Holy Trinity' of the UK's Elite Forces. As a point man in the SBS, he was always the first into danger. In this revealing book, Ant recounts the highs and gut-wrenching lows of his life—from the thrill of passing Special Forces Selection to grappling with his father's early death and facing imprisonment after leaving the military—offering valuable lessons applicable to our daily lives.