Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War

Durant hears the guns of the rescue convoy. Unbeknownst to him, a better-armed band of mercenaries has taken him from Mo’alim’s group to be used as a hostage. The new group figures that “[i]f Aidid wanted the pilot back, he would have to fight for him, or pay” (262).

A firefight erupts outside. Somalis enter Durant’s room and threaten him. He believes they will kill him if they think the rescue convoy has a chance at saving him. When he is alone, a gun barrel pokes around the door and shoots him in the shoulder. 

Lieutenant Colonel Bill David was to assemble the rescue convoy of Malaysian APCs and four Pakistani tanks. He was confused, given that he had 300 of his men from the 10th Mountain Division eager to join the fight. He and General Gile decided that once the foreign troops linked up with their men, they would ask the Malaysians to fill their APCs with American troops, who may be able to make better use of the armored vehicles.

It is nine thirty at night when the rescue forces drive to New Port to connect with the Malaysians and Pakistanis. There are almost 500 men among the D-boys, SEALS, 10th Mountain Division men, and Rangers in the group.