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
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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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.
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.
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