Sunday Bloody Sunday

A Soldier's War in Northern Ireland, Rhodesia, Mozambique and Iraq

By: Gregory Michael Budd, Jake Harper-Ronald

Narrated by: Pat Devon

Gold is forged in fire.

Men in the furnace of adversity… Step into the extraordinary life of Jake Harper-Ronald, a man whose childhood dream of becoming a soldier led him on an unparalleled journey.

In 1966, he fulfilled his ambition as a conscript in the Royal Rhodesia Regiment, only to embark on a series of adventures that most soldiers can only imagine.

From early days in the elite Parachute Regiment in the UK to his pivotal role as the official photographer during the infamous 'Bloody Sunday' in Northern Ireland, Jake's path was one of courage and resilience.

He left an indelible mark on history, capturing iconic moments through his lens that still resonate today. Returning to Rhodesia in 1974, Jake's journey continued with the ultra-tough SAS and Selous Scouts.

His daring cross-border raids and contributions as a professional soldier showcased his unwavering commitment.

Despite facing the trials of combat, he persevered, transitioning to a top-secret Special Branch callsign and later joining Zimbabwe's Central Intelligence Organisation.

Jake's remarkable story unfolded further as he operated as an intelligence agent for global powers such as South Africa, Britain, and the US.

His path was not without challenges; accusations of treason led to his time in solitary confinement at Goromonzi Detention Centre.

Undeterred, he emerged from adversity, and in 1989, MI6 enlisted his expertise to train and lead militias combating Renamo in Mozambique.

His efforts were so impactful that his Special Forces unit was integrated into Mozambique's National Army.

Witnessing the harrowing realities of Mozambique, Jake's journey came full circle as he returned to Zimbabwe and ventured into the private security sector and onto private military contracting in Iraq.

Despite his health declining, his resolve remained unshaken until his passing in 2007 at age 59.

Immerse yourself in an incredible narrative of bravery, sacrifice, and tenacity as 'Sunday Bloody Sunday' chronicles his awe-inspiring life.

©2009 Gregory Michael Budd (P)2024 Patrick Devenish

An Everyday Man

This was a great story of regular man who didn’t come from privilege. It’s very sad, but very uplifting at the same time. A true tale of man with a life worth lived. The days of a person being able to experience the life that Jake Harper-Ronald experienced are long gone. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this and would recommend it to anyone.

amazing life

Mlitary history of the Rhodesian conflict with the Northern Ireland troubles and the war in the bush of Mozambique.

Incredible life story

I really enjoyed this story. Mr Ronald had quite the life story from Ireland to Rhodesia to Iraq.

The truth of the happening in Rhodesia , Zimbabwe at that time sell out of the British government to both sides

Another get story of the on going’s during that period of bush soldier at a level that serviced with great units

Life of service

Awesome life long dedication to what he believed in. A true soldier in every sense giving all he could