In this new book, Gavin Mortimer reveals the 12 legendary Special
Forces commanders of World War II. Prior to the war, the concept of ‘special
forces’ simply didn’t exist, but thanks to visionary leaders like David Stirling
and Charles Hunter, our very concept of how wars can be fought and won has
totally changed. These 12 men not only reshaped military policy, but they led
from the front, accompanying their troops into battle, from the sands of
North Africa to jumping on D-Day and
infiltrating behind enemy lines. Mortimer also offers a skilful analysis of
their qualities as military commanders and the true impact that their own
personal actions, as well as those of their units, had on the eventual outcome
of the war.
Contents
Introduction *
Baron Adrian von Fölkeram – Brandenburger Commando Unit * David Stirling
– Special Air Service Regiment * Orde Wingate – The Chindits * Charles
Hunter – Merrill’s Marauders * Robert T. Frederick – First Special Service Force
* Ralph Bagnold – Founder of the Long Range Desert Group * Evans Carlson –
Carlson’s Rangers * Friedrick August Freiherr von der Heydte – Fallschirmjäger *
Paddy Mayne – Special Air Service Regiment * Edson Raff – US Paratroopers *
Simon Fraser – Special Service Brigade * Prince Junio Valerio Scipione Borghese
– Decima Flottiglia MAS (Italy’s naval sabotage unit)
