Navzdory II (Against All Odds II) – The Testimony of a Czech Special Forces Operator

Navzdory II (Against All Odds II) provides a direct and unembellished look into the environment of Czech Special Forces, foreign deployments, and service that reaches from field operations to senior national-security decision-making. The second, expanded edition—created in cooperation with the 10:35 podcast—adds nearly sixty pages of new material and revises the original text. It is the testimony of a soldier, Special Forces operator, and commander whose career is closely tied to the Army of the Czech Republic.

A Candid Account of a Special Forces Operator

Navzdory II opens a view into the world of intensive training, deployment, and team cohesion that defines service in elite units. It follows the path of a man who served as an operator in the 601st Special Forces Group, participated in missions in Afghanistan and Africa, and later worked in positions connected to national security. The book illustrates the reality of service with its responsibilities, consequences, and impact.

Revised and Expanded Edition

The second edition introduces updated chapters and a significantly broadened portion of the narrative. It newly describes service with the 43rd Airborne Regiment in Chrudim and adds context to a career that continued beyond Special Forces, yet remained firmly anchored in the military environment. The added passages offer deeper insight and clearer links to real events.

A Tribute to Veterans and Comrades-in-Arms

The book also includes a chapter on the CZ Fighters For Veterans gala, where soldiers and professional fighters paid tribute to veterans through mixed-martial-arts bouts. This part reflects values of loyalty, respect, and solidarity within a community that understands the costs associated with service. The narrative captures the atmosphere and emotions of events that remain largely out of public view.

An Author Writing from Experience

The story is based on the personal experience of Colonel (ret.) Petr Matouš, a graduate of military leadership, Special Forces operator, participant in six foreign missions, and later advisor to the Prime Minister. His career also included serving as the first national coordinator for countering hybrid threats and subsequently as deputy commander and commander of the 43rd Airborne Regiment in Chrudim. The text is built on authenticity and a deep understanding of the military environment.

Recognised Voices Underscoring its Significance

The book is accompanied by assessments from senior representatives of the Czech defence and security community. Army General Karel Řehka describes it as a unique and straightforward testimony. Defence Minister Jana Černochová highlights courage and perseverance. Lieutenant General Michal Koudelka characterises the narrative as raw, emotional, and offering insight into a world of extraordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

A Relevant Document of Modern Military Service

Navzdory II presents an environment shaped not only by operations but also by values, cohesion, and commitment to the country. It explains the role of units that represent the highest level of professionalism within the Army of the Czech Republic and offers a deeper understanding of service whose impact reaches beyond the individual career.

A Book that Leaves an Impression

The text stands out through its authenticity, atmosphere, and the personal perspective of someone who served both at home and abroad. It opens topics not commonly discussed in public and places them within the broader context of national defence and security. Navzdory II is a book that resonates long after reading.

Key Features:

• revised and expanded second edition
• nearly sixty pages of new content
• authentic account of Special Forces service
• experiences from deployments in Afghanistan and Africa
• insight into service in the 43rd Airborne Regiment
• chapter on the CZ Fighters For Veterans gala
• created in cooperation with the 10:35 podcast
• evaluations from leading Czech defence officials
• professional, factual, and experience-based narrative