During the Second World War a great secret was kept from the Nationand the enemy. Unknown to a war torn Britain, another war of intrigue, covert operations, spies, intelligence gathering and daring was being fought in the English Channel. Under great secrecy an elite force courageously kept open secret channels, between England and France. The Special Boat Operations (SBO) was central to British Naval strategy and planning which operated in a secret and dangerous world at a time when Churchill demanded that "we set Europe ablaze." The SBOs ingenuity, indomitable spirit, loyalty and success was a major factor in the final success of the invasion of Europe by Allied force.

Mike Williams served eight years both full time and as a reservist, first in the Royal Navy [intelligence] as a Russian-speaking intercept operator, then in the Royal Marines [SBS and Commando], ending as a Second-in Command of a combined SBS and Commando RMR unit. He is married to the children's author Brenda Williams. They live in Wiltshire and regularly go hill-walking and canoeing in the Isles of Scilly.