This book is usually well regardedin military and security circles for its depiction of the messiness and moral ambiguity of counterinsurgency warfare. It's a novel by a French journalist; a third of it takes place in a POW camp, another third in France between deployments and the last in the Algerian war of independence.  



Because it was out of print and highly sought-after, prices were insane for this book for years, up to thousands for first editions and hundreds for dog-eared paperback copies.



Now it is coming back into print next year for $15, so if you have been waiting for an affordable copy now is the time to pre-order.



http://www.amazon.com/The-Centurions-Jean-Larteguy/dp/0143107445/ref=pd_ybh_21

I've never heard of Larteguy, looks like several of his works are of interest to me.  Let the search begin.

Thanks for the recommendation.

Hking