John Delaney Author Staying Alive Paratroopers Story

Staying Alive: The Paratrooper’s Story is a memoir co-authored by John Delaney and Jan Greenough. It recounts Delaney’s experiences as a member of South Africa’s Parachute Battalion during the Border War, including operations in Angola and Namibia, and explores the lasting psychological effects of combat.

Rather than presenting war as glamorous, the book emphasizes the personal costs of military service. Delaney describes the realities of combat, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the challenges of returning to civilian life while coping with trauma, anger, and guilt. A major theme is his gradual transformation as he confronts the emotional consequences of his past and works toward healing, ultimately becoming more engaged in helping others in his community.