Rangers, Scouts, and Raiders: Origin, Organization, and Operations of Selected Special Operations Forces [Hardcover]

Well-written and meticulously researched, the book is 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 MagazineThroughout history there has always been a need, in military forces, for special units. In the past, these units have usually been ad hoc formations that were disbanded after their mission was complete. It has only been since the early 1950s that such units have remained active, but even in recent times special purpose, special mission units have been organized and used for a period of time or for a specific 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 through 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.How special-purpose, special mission units have been used in operations over the last two centuries.Examines the development and use of American special units throughout its history through a number of notable operations.All the operationsboth successful and failedcontributed to the overall mission of their theater.From Rogers Rangers through to the Son Tay raid in Vietnam. Well-written and meticulously researched, the book is 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. Michael Dilley has added to his already significant contributions to the literature on special operations with this review of a number of units and missions, primarily American, that arl3�