SALISBURY, Md.- Some Americans are finally getting an inside look into what really could have happened in the raid on Osama bin Laden. A controversial book written by a former U.S. Navy SEAL went on sale Tuesday, and it is already selling out in some places on Delmarva.
The book is called "No Easy Day" and the author goes by the surname Mark Owen. The 300- page book gives a detailed account of the mission that killed America's enemy number one, Osama bin Laden.
In the book, Owen said he was one of the first men through the door of bin Laden's hideout to witness his death.
"I believe what's inside that book is a closely-guarded secret that belongs in the archives of our country. It does not need to be a book for everyone around the world to read," said Kathleen Garten who was shopping at Barnes & Noble in Salisbury.
"National security is the number one issue versus the book," said John Santos, department adjutant with the American Legion in Seaford. Santos says he hasn't read the book yet, and is concerned about military secrets being released to the public. "I was concerned with security agreements that any military man or woman signed once they leave service. They have to make sure those agreements or security protocols are not broken," said Santos.
Stores like Barnes & Noblehad to keep restocking their shelves with the book. Those who have already purchased the book say they just want a first-hand account of what really happened.
John Palmer is a retired Navy master chief who has had dealings with Navy Seal Team Six.
"I'm interested to see why the government is trying to condemn these people instead of commending them for the job well done," said Palmer, who purchased the book at Barnes & Noble.
Palmer spent 21 years in the military.
"They know how to do their job. The government should just let them do their job and shut up," Palmer said.
Pentagon officials say they are concerned classified information was released and that information could aid other enemies of the U.S.
"It's a worldwide item, not just in the United States. I'm sure in the Islamic world they are intrigued how we pulled this off. I hope tactics were not revealed in the book," Santos said.
Pentagon officials also say they are considering legal action.
"I can assure you that veterans groups will get together and put money toward his defense fund, me included," Palmer said.
Santos said one thing everyone should take into account is the sacrifice the U.S. Navy SEAL made to protect his country.
"Just remember what the man went through and that he's trying to share his feelings with us," Santos said.
