Special Operations Forces: Origin, Organization, and Operations

"The book is well-written and meticulously researched, serving as an excellent example of truth being more interesting than fiction. It is easy to read, with photos, charts, and maps that help the reader keep pace with the action." ― ARMY Magazine

Throughout history, military forces have consistently exhibited a need for special units. In the past, these units were typically ad hoc formations that were disbanded once their mission was complete. It is only since the early 1950s that such units have remained active, though even in recent times, special purpose and special mission units have been organized, utilized for a specific period or mission, and then either deactivated or replaced by other units.

This unique approach to the history of American special forces examines their development through a number of operations, ranging from the French and Indian War in the 18th century to the Vietnam War. From the Son Tay raid to the Force at la Difensa and Rogers' Rangers, the operations are diverse in both organization and purpose, but all contributed to the overall mission of their theater or larger organization, thus proving the continuing need for special units throughout history and even today.

The book's table of contents includes the following chapters:

Acknowledgements Foreword by Daniel J. Cragg, Sergeant Major, U.S. Army (Ret) Introduction Chapter 1. The Return of Rogers' Rangers Chapter 2. The Andrews Raid Chapter 3. American Airborne Units in World War II Chapter 4. The Force at la Difensa Chapter 5. Sabotaging Hitler's Heavy Water Chapter 6. The Alamo Scouts—LRRPs of World War II Chapter 7. Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force Chapter 8. Gypsy Task Force at Aparri Chapter 9. Recondo Training – Its Origins and Aftermath Chapter 10. The Son Tay Raid Appendices A – J: Origins, Organizations Bibliography of Sources Consulted Index

product information: