John at heart is a
U.S. Army grunt who risked everything to fight with American soldiers.

Bing West, Former Assistant Secretary of Defense

About Us

Nasirullah John
Safi

Nasrallah John Safi grew up in Afghanistan under the Taliban brutal regime. Despite the widespread closure of schools due to extremism, Safi was determined to pursue education from a young age. Alternating between Madrassas and homeschooling, he was driven by the dream of becoming a medical doctor, a decision influenced by his mother’s chronic illness and his desire to help her. However, Madrassas did not align with his professional aspirations. The onset of the U.S.-led coalition’s war on terror in 2001 marked a significant turning point, bringing great changes in the lives of countless Afghans- Safi was one of them. He joined and served as a U.S. military combat interpreter at the age of 15, showcasing multilingual skills and authorship,
and played a pivotal role in supporting the war on terror in Afghanistan. His dedication came at a high cost, including being shot and nearly losing his life on several occasions. Nasrallah John Safi was shot in his right arm while supporting the US military during a perilous mission in Eastern Afghanistan. The scar on his right arm serves as a daily reminder of his experiences in the Afghan War.

About

Nasirullah John
Safi

Nasrallah John Safi grew up in Afghanistan under the Taliban brutal regime. Despite the widespread closure of schools due to extremism, Safi was determined to pursue education from a young age. Alternating between Madrassas and homeschooling, he was driven by the dream of becoming a medical doctor, a decision influenced by his mother’s chronic illness and his desire to help her. However, Madrassas did not align with his professional aspirations. The onset of the U.S.-led coalition’s war on terror in 2001 marked a significant turning point, bringing great changes in the lives of countless Afghans- Safi was one of them. He joined and served as a U.S. military combat interpreter at the age of 15, showcasing multilingual skills and authorship,
and played a pivotal role in supporting the war on terror in Afghanistan. His dedication came at a high cost, including being shot and nearly losing his life on several occasions. Nasrallah John Safi was shot in his right arm while supporting the US military during a perilous mission in Eastern Afghanistan. The scar on his right arm serves as a daily reminder of his experiences in the Afghan War.

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Reader's Reviews of Books :

Dawn Brower
Dawn Brower
November 25, 2022
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Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2023 Verified Purchase Raw and real account of life as a child growing up in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, and as a young adult working alongside American soldiers fighting insurgents on behalf of Afghan citizens. Brilliant descriptions of the terrain, climate, people, and social conditions of the nation; detailed explanations of interactions between US soldiers, Afghan police and soldiers, tribal leaders, and Taliban fighters; fascinating insight into Afghan culture; and first-hand accounts of firefights in some of the most beautiful and brutally war-ravaged areas of the world. Safi stood at the right hand of the very best of US military leadership, from patrol to command level, communicating customs, questions, and commands. He was a hero to US troops before he was even an adult, and made his way to becoming an American citizen himself. It’s such a great story. Buy the book. 🙂
Lani J O'Callaghan
Lani J O'Callaghan
August 19, 2022
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Nasirullah's second book answers questions as to why the Afghan Army failed when Afghans are known for their fighting strength. He also brings the reader right into the worst possible situation for an interpreter ~ his constant fear of being "seen" by villagers is realized and puts his family in grave danger of losing their lives.
justin diggs
justin diggs
November 28, 2022
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John’s second book is just as amazing as his first! A movie or some type of documentary should be made!
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General David Petraeus, US Army (Ret.), former Commander of the Surge in Iraq, US Central Command, and Coalition Forces in Afghanistan; former Director of the CIA; co-author of the "NY Times" bestselling book "Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine"

“A wonderful account of exceptional service by one of the many great “terps” who were the unsung heroes of the post-9/11 wars. We could not have operated without these talented, selfless battlefield interpreters. They not only translated from the local language to English and vice versa, they also interpreted the context and situation on the ground for our young men and women on the frontlines of the fighting. What they did was truly invaluable, and this book conveys that very vividly.” 

Pat Flanagan, U.S. Army

A superb account of the day-to-day life and combat experiences of an Afghan interpreter. Readers are introduced to the harsh reality and dangers that many of our Afghan partners face. John’s journey from child into manhood is essential reading for those wishing to understand the dynamic culture and dangers facing US/Afghan interpreters. A vivid and introspective glimpse into the life of my best interpreter. Safi’s story is hilarious, terrifying and sorrowful and he is a true voice of the Afghan war.
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Stephen Magennis, Colonel, U.S. Army

Nasirullah “John” Safi embodies the thousands of Afghans who risked their lives to support the men and women who fought, negotiated, supported, built, and worked tirelessly for a better way of life in Afghanistan after the Taliban. His personal commitment to a better life in America, leaving behind all that had meaning in his world, echoes the early 20th century immigrant experience. Our country needs future citizens like John to make our country, and his native land, better. He delivers his message the Afghan way, through a series of stories, just like history has been passed from generation to generation in Afghanistan. You can almost hear the words on the pages speak to you.

Kevin Devine, Command Sergeant Major, U.S. Army

Must Read. Extremely fascinating view of life through the eyes of an Afghan interpreter. There are one in a million encounters in life where you meet people that you know are going to change the world or someone’s outlook in life. The American government and our allies owe him a debt of gratitude for the thousands of lives he has saved due to his experience and knowledge. Absolutely grateful for our friendship and family addition.

25

JUNE 2024​

SF MEDICAL SERGEANT -- 46 WEEKS. THE
18D EDUCATION IS ARGUABLY

Nasirullah “John” Safi embodies the thousands of Afghans who risked their lives to support the men and women who fought, negotiated, supported, built, and worked tirelessly for a better way of life in Afghanistan after the Taliban. His personal commitment to a better life in America, leaving behind all that had meaning in his world, echoes the early 20th century immigrant experience. Our country needs future citizens like John to make our country, and his native land, better. He delivers his message the Afghan way, through a series of stories, just like history has been passed from generation to generation in Afghanistan. You can almost hear the words on the pages speak to you. -Stephen Magennis, Colonel, U.S. Army

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