POST WORLD WAR II BOOKS

(Updated October 12, 2007)

 

 

AFGHANISTAN-THE BEAR TRAP The Defeat of a Superpower by Mohammed Yousaf and Mark Adkin

This is the story of the defeat of Soviet Russia's forces by a guerrilla force during the 80s.  This book describes in detail the terrain, the training needed and how the Mujahideen carried out ambushes, assassinations, raids and rocket attacks deep inside Soviet occupied territory.  The lessons in this book have never been more relevant after the US President declared 'The War Against World Terrorism'.  HC, 243pp, illus., pub. 2001, Casemate, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $30.00

 

AIRBORNE FREE Red Devils and Other Rare Breeds - Edited by Mark Bryant

A light-hearted look at Airborne Forces, wildlife and conservation from many different cartoonists.  SC, 99pp, illus., pub. 1990, Leo Cooper, mint.  Price: $17.00

 

ALL NECESSARY MEASURES (Bosnia) by Cameron Spence

They were there to end a war, they ended up fighting for their lives.  This book charts the minute-by-minute progress of an impossible mission.  This is no-holds-barred, real life adventure, the tense and adrenaline charged true story  of two months in the world's most volatile combat zone.  HC, 295pp, illus., in colour, pub. 1998, Michael Joseph, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $36.00

 

AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT FALKLANDS The Battle of San Carlos Water By Michael Clapp and Ewen Southby-Tailyour

The author here tells how San Carlos Water was chosen for the assault and subsequent inshore operations.  Michael Clapp and his small staff made their stand and can claim a major role in the defeat of the Argentine Air and Land Forces.  HC, 300pp, illus., pub. 1996, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $38.00

 

AT WAR IN KOREA By George Forty

George Forty served as a young subaltern during the Korean War.  In this book, by means of a blend of personal reminiscences and photographs, he presents a graphic impression of the reality behind the television view.  HC, 160pp, illus., pub. 1997, Arms and Armour, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

THE ATLAS OF MODERN WARFARE By Chris Cook  and John Stevenson

This book provides a comprehensive and authoritative summary of world-wide military history since the end of the Second World War.  There is a map of each of the major battles of the period, showing the manoeuvres involved.  HC, 191pp, illus., pub. 1978, G. P. Putnam, very good in torn dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

THE BAMBOO CAGE By Nigel Cawthorne

The full story of the American servicemen still held hostage in South-East Asia.  HC, 336pp, pub. 1991, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $40.00

 

THE BATTLE FOR THE FALKLANDS By Max Hastings and Simon Jenkins

Max Hastings reported the war from the sailing of the naval task force.  He went ashore with leading elements of the Royal Marine commandos at San Carlos.  Meanwhile, in London and Washington, Simon Jenkins traced every political and diplomatic twist of the crisis from the invasion to the ceasefire.  HC, 372pp, illus., pub. 1983, Book Club Assocs., mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

BAY OF PIGS The Untold Story By Peter Wyden

Based on eyewitness accounts (Fidel Castro was interviewed by the author for over six hours), this book brilliantly re-creates the climatic moment in the American attempt to overthrow Castro.  HC, 352pp, illus., pub. 1979, Simon and Schuster, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

BLACK HAWK DOWN A Story of Modern War by Mark Bowden

Ninety nine elite American soldiers are trapped in the middle of a hostile city.  They are surrounded by thousands of enemy gunmen.  Their ammunition and supplies are dwindling.  This is the story of how they got there – and how they fought their way out.  This is the story of war.  HC, 386pp, illus., pub. 1999, Atlantic, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $24.00

 

BRAVO TWO ZERO The True Story of an SAS Patrol Behind the Lines in Iraq By Andy McNab, DCM, MM

Believed to be the most highly decorated patrol since the Boer War, Bravo Two Zero is already part of SAS legend.  HC, 374pp, illus., pub. 1994, Bantam, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $36.00

Soft Cover Price: $18.00

 

BREAKOUT The Chosin Reservoir Campaign, Korea 1950 by Martin Russ

Weaving into his account the voices of scores of individuals – ordinary Marines and their officers – Russ creates an unforgettable portrayal of the terror and courage of men as they face sudden death, making the bloody battles of the Korean hills and valleys come alive as they never have before.  HC, 452pp, pub. 1999, Fromm Int’l, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $25.00

 

THE BRITISH ARMY - A POCKET GUIDE

1992 Edition:  The accepted work on the organisation, equipment and tactics of the Modern British Army.  SC, illus., 140pp, pub. 1991, mint, R and F Pub.  Price: $10.00

 

THE BRITISH ARMY IN NORTHERN IRELAND By Colonel Michael Dewar

This compelling study of military intervention in civil affairs is told with the authority of first-hand experience by a former soldier – one who was there.  HC, 270pp, illus., pub. 1985, Guild, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $30.00

 

THE BRITISH ARMY IN ULSTER (VOL. 2) By David Barzilary

There are sections in this book on intelligence, bomb disposal, the IRA, and a diary of events from August 1973 to October 1975.  HC, 256pp, illus., pub. 1978, Century Books, very good in dust jacket, corners knocked a bit.  Price: $30.00

 

THE BRITISH ARMY IN ULSTER (VOL. 3) By David Barzilary

This book covers the period of September 1975 until the beginning of 1978.  It gives a unique glimpse into the Ulster situation from a security point of view and it is a part of a unique record of the troubles in Ulster.  HC, 240pp, illus., pub. 1978, Century Books, very good in dust jacket, corners knocked a bit.  Price: $30.00

 

A CAPTAIN'S MANDATE Palestine 1946-1948 By Philip Brutton

The author describes the magnificent heartland of the Holy Land from Beersheba to Dan in an intimate dramatic story told with panache and humour.  HC, 219pp, illus., pub. 1996, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $32.00

 

CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE A Woman Journalist’s Breathtaking Experiences in War-torn Afghanistan by Jan Goodwin

Disguised as a guerrilla, her red hair dyed black and her skin stained to a weather-beaten brown, Jan Goodwin entered Afghanistan in defiance of a Soviet threat to kill the next foreign journalist found with the mujahideen.  By going to Afghanistan and living with a group of freedom fighters, the author was determined to make the world sit up and notice.  HC, 330pp, illus., pub. 1987, 1st Edition, Macdonald, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

CLOSE QUARTER BATTLE (C.B.Q.) The Explosive True Story of 15 Years Under Fire by Mike Curtis

The author describes his grueling experiences in the Falklands (2 Para) before focusing on two of his major SAS operations: first in Iraq and then in Borneo.  HC, 395pp, illus., some in colour, pub. 1997, BCA, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $35.00

 

A CODE TO KEEP Prisoner in Vietnam By Ernest C. Brace

He was a former Marine hero, banished in disgrace from the Corps.  Yet he maintained the military code of conduct in the torture cells of the enemy.  The true first-hand account of America's longest-held civilian POW in Vietnam and his courageous return to honour.  HC, 264pp, illus., pub. 1988, Robert Hale, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

THE COLDEST WAR A Memoir of Korea by James Brady

The author tells the story of his life as a young marine lieutenant in Korea.  He vividly describes his rapid education in the realities of war and the pressures of command.  SC, 248pp, illus., pub. 1990, Thomas Dunne, mint.  Price: $12.00

 

DELTA FORCE The U.S. Counter-Terrorist Unit and the Iran Hostage Rescue Mission By Col. Charlie A. Beckwith and Donald Knox

This is the premier insider's account of a bold, complex and incredibly difficult rescue mission.  HC, 276pp, illus., pub. 1983, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, very good in torn dust jacket.  Price: $5.00

 

DESERT STORM: THE WEAPONS OF WAR by Eliot Brown, William Harwood, Editors of UPI

This is a comprehensive account of the weapons on both sides and how they have been - and will be - used in combat, from Saddam's MiGs and Scuds to the Allies' Stealth fighters and Patriots.  SC, 96pp, illus., pub. 1991, Orion, mint, 11' x 8 1/2".  Price: $10.00

 

DIEN BIEN PHU 1954 By David Stone (Battles in Focus)

One of the most important clashes of arms involving a European army in the post-1945 period, Dien Bien Phu was a hugely significant defeat for French global military power.  An epic struggle that lasted from November 1953 to May 1954, it involved some of the toughest units of the French army in fierce fighting against the nationalist forces of the Viet Minh.  SC, 128pp, illus., pub. 2004, Brassey’s, mint.  Price:  $20.00

 

DON'T BUNCH UP One Marine's Story by William Van Zanten

As a first lieutenant, Bill Van Zanten was one of the Magnificent Bastards of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, fighting in the boonies near hill 69, outside of Chu Lai in 1965.  This is his memoir.  HC, 208pp, pub. 1993, Archon, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

EGG BANJOS FROM AROUND THE WORLD A Collection of Gunner Anecdotes - Edited by Duncan Smith

One of the first lessons learned by Gunners is that Ubique means everywhere.  This book records for posterity the tales of Gunners who have served quite literally all over the place.  SC, 80pp, illus., pub. 1995, signed by author, Homestead Pub., mint.  Price: $11.00

 

ESCAPE FROM RED CHINA By Robert Loh as told to Humphrey Evans

The first eyewitness account of life under the Chinese Communists, told by a Chinese businessman who believed in the new society - and was nearly destroyed by it.  HC, 378pp, pub. 1962, Coward-McCann, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

A FACE LIKE A CHICKEN'S BACKSIDE An Unconventional Soldier in South East Asia, 1948-1971 by J. P. Cross

Cross spent 8 years as a company commander with the Gurkhas in Malaya fighting jungle operations against the communists.  He also took part in the attempt to end 20 years of guerrilla domination over the aborigines in north Malaya, and he commanded the Gurkha Independent Parachute Company, who had to operate like paras, SAS men and conventional soldiers.  HC, 238pp, illus., pub. 1996, Greenhill, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $37.50

 

FALKLANDS AFTERMATH Picking Up the Pieces By Maj. Gen. Edward Fursdon

Essentially a personal story, General Fursdon has nevertheless produced a timely and valuable study of the effect of modern warfare upon man and his environment.  HC, 205pp, illus., pub. 1988, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $35.00

 

THE FALKLANDS MILITARY MACHINE By Derek Oakley

Here for the first time in one volume is the background to the whole campaign.  The Military Machine behind such a campaign, whether naval, land or air forces, had to be carefully planned and coordinated.  How this mammoth Task Force was assembled, with sufficient logistic backing, is a remarkable achievement of its own, carried through to its natural conclusion of total victory.  HC, 8 3/4" x 11 1/4", 192pp, illus., (some in color), pub. 2002, Casemate, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $35.00

 

FIRST TO FIGHT Australian Diggers, N.Z. Kiwis and U.S. Paratroopers in Vietnam 1965-66 By Bob Breen

This is the story of an Australian battalion which fought as part of a unique US Airborne Brigade, a formation which spearheaded the escalation of American intervention in Vietnam, and which became the first and last truly integrated ANZUS combat force to fight in a war.  HC, 316pp, illus., pub. 1988, Battery Press, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $38.00

 

FORCE RECON COMMAND A Special Marine Unit in Vietnam, 1969-1970 by Lt. Col. Alex Lee, USMC (Ret.)

More than a memoir of Vietnam war stories, this frank and absorbing chronicle traces the evolution of Marine small unit reconnaissance from its origins in World War II, analyzes its use and abuse in Vietnam, and offers a provocative but useful legacy of lessons learned from a career dedicated to an elite within the elite.  HC, 254pp, illus., pub. 1995, Naval Institute Press, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $28.00

 

FORCE RECON DIARY, 1969-1970 By Bruce H. Norton

This book chronicles “Doc” Norton’s electrifying combat experience throughout two years in the bush.  He was ultimately decorated with two morphine Syrettes pinned to his collar, and awarded a medevac ride on a Ch-46 Sea Knight helicopter.  HC, 567pp, illus., pub. 1992, Ivy, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $28.00

 

FORCES '85-Falklands Aftermath

This book re-examines some of the controversies and mysteries of that conflict and goes on to question the implications for Britain's military forces now and in the future.  HC, 144pp, illus., pub. 1984, Marshall Cavendish, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $24.00

 

FORCES '86

Personal accounts of Marine training, combat flying and the submarine service.  This book turns to look at Britain's military scene as a whole.  HC, 144pp, illus., pub. 1985, Marshall Cavendish, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $24.00

 

FORTUNE FAVOURS THE BRAVE The Battles of the Hook Korea 1952-53 by A. J. Barker

The two costliest battles are described in detail in this book.  Both involved British infantry battalions of 29 Commonwealth Brigade.  The Black Watch in November 1952 saw off a major Chinese attack against all odds.  In May 1953 it was the turn of 1st Battalion, The Duke of Wellington's Regiment to face what must have seemed an overwhelming onslaught.  HC, 170pp, illus., pub. 2002, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $37.00

 

FROM HORSE TO HELICOPTER Transporting the British Army in War and Peace 1648-1989 By John Sutton and John Walker

In this book the kinds of transportation used on land, sea and air are examined, and examples of how they have functioned in both the operational and routine movement of the British Army are given.  HC, illus., 232pp, pub. 1990, Leo Copper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

FROM THE DANUBE TO THE YALU By Mark W. Clark

General Mark Clark's own story from service in Austria to his time as Commander-In-Chief of the UN forces in Korea.  HC, 356pp, illus., pub. 1954, 11 plates in half-tone and a map, George G. Harrap, very good, no dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

THE GREEN BERETS By Robin Moore

Brilliant, inspiring tales of the little known but crucially important arm of the U.S. defense, the crack teams of the Special Forces - true-life heroes who have made the Green Beret a badge of honor in the jungles of Vietnam and the world over.  HC, 348pp, pub. 1965, Crown, good in dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

THE GULF WAR A Photographic History by Michael Dewar and the Press Association

In both photographs and words, this book covers the events leading up to the war, the personalities involved, the military build-up, the air offensive and the astounding 100 hours land war.  HC, 144pp, illus., Robert Hale, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

IMMEDIATE ACTION By Andy McNab, DCM MM

The true story of his life in the SAS by the author of Bravo Two Zero.  This book is no-hold barred account of an extraordinary life.  Recounting with grim humour and in riveting, often horrifying detail his activities in the world's most highly trained and efficient Special Forces unit.  McNab sweeps us into a world of surveillance and intelligence gathering, counter-terrorism and hostage rescue.  HC, 389pp, illus., pub. 1995, Bantam Press, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $39.00; Soft Cover Price: $10.00

 

IN THE COMBAT ZONE Special Forces Since 1945 by Robin Neillands

From the intense cold of the Korean winter, the mountains of Cyprus or the Libyan night, to the jungle-heat of Vietnam and Malaya, from the hills of the Falklands to the intricate countryside of Northern Ireland, the words of the soldiers themselves tell us what it is really like.  The book tells what they do, who they recruit and how they train.  HC, 350pp, illus., pub. 1997, Weidenfeld & Nicolson, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

INCHON MacArthur's Last Triumph by Michael Langley

Inchon describes Operation Chromite from its uncertain beginnings in Washington to the war's end and when U.N. forces held back the Communists and reclaimed Seoul.  HC, 182pp, illus., pub. 1979, Batsford, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $25.00

 

JUNGLE CAMPAIGN A Memoir of National Service in Malaya, 1949-51 By John Scurr John Scurr joined the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry and was sent to Malaya at the time of the war against Communist guerrillas – euphemistically known as the Emergency.  This is his account of his experiences, based on a journal he kept.  A story of nerve-racking chases across hostile swamps, in constant danger of ambush, of insects and infections, and of sudden fatalities.  HC, 408pp, illus., pub. 1998, Book Guild, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $35.00

 

KENNEDY IN VIETNAM A Prelude to War - American Vietnam Policy  1960-1963 By William J. Rust

This book details the complexities of the Vietnam conflict at the time of Kennedy's inauguration, and examines the far-reaching impact of the Bay of Pigs debacle on Kennedy's foreign policy.  HC, 252pp, illus., pub. 1985, Charles Schribner, ex-library, mint in protective dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

KOREA-THE LOST WAR By Bevin Alexander

The author shows how the USA won one war when it stopped North Korean aggression but lost the crucial one when it tried to destroy the North Korean state and eliminate the strategic shield in front of China's heartland.  SC, 558pp, illus., pub. 1989, Arrow, very good.  Price:  $25.00

 

KOREA - The Unknown War by Jon Halliday and Bruce Cumings

In this book the authors have gathered together a rich collection of illustrations to complement their account of the war.  The book also offers a vivid picture of life in both the North and the South during the war.  HC, 224pp, illus., pub. 1988, Viking, front end paper faulty, picture stuck to cover, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $25.00

 

THE KOREAN WAR By Max Hastings

Max Hastings mixed archive research and strategic narrative with personal recollections from scores of survivors in Britain, Korea and the U.S.  HC, 476pp, illus., pub. 1987, Michael Joseph, inscription on inside cover, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $35.00

 

THE MAKING OF A PARA By Rory Bridson

This book goes behind the scenes of one of the world's crack fighting regiments to discover in detail exactly what makes a modern Parachute Regiment soldier - how he is selected and trained, how he lives from day to day, how well he fights, and what makes him tick.  HC, 192pp, illus. (some in colour), pub. 1989, Guild, mint in slightly torn dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

MUSCAT COMMAND By Peter Thwaites

This book was written in the last years of the author's life, a spirited account of the two years he spent in command of the Muscat Regiment.  During his time with the regiment, he was awarded the Sultan's Bravery Medal, the Special Commendation and the Distinguished Service Medal for Gallantry.  HC, 176p, illus., pub. 1995, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $29.00

 

NAM (19 WEEKLY PARTS) MAGAZINES

A complete set of 19 magazines of the Vietnam Experience from 1965 to 1975.  Very good condition, over 500pp, Orbis Publishing, UK, pub. 1987.  Price: $75.00

 

NATO SUPPORT VEHICLES Military Vehicles Fotofax By Simon Dunstan

SC, 86 photos, pub. 1990, Arms and Armour, mint.  Price: $8.00

 

THE NATURE OF FUTURE CONFLICT By Richard Connaughton

In this forthright and highly professional study, the author seeks to examine the nature of future conflict with a view to establishing a collective experience and knowledge for the benefit of those called upon to make real-time decisions.  HC, 239pp, pub. 1995, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

THE NIGHTINGALE’S SONG By Robert Timberg

The author weaves together the lives of five U.S. Naval Academy graduates who achieved national prominence during the presidency of Ronald Reagan and who continue to claim our attention today.  The result is a riveting tale that reveals the flip side of the storied Vietnam generation – those who went.  HC, 543pp, pub. 1995, Simon & Schuster, very good in dust jacket.  Price:  $27.50

 

NINE BATTLES TO STANLEY By Nicolas van der Bijl

This thoroughly balanced account benefits not just the author’s experience but the wealth of research information he has gathered since the conflict.  He pulls no punches and preserves no sacred cows as witnessed by the graphic description and assessment of the SAS attack on south Georgia.  HC, 265pp, illus., pub. 1999, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $37.00

 

NO MEAN SOLDIER The Autobiography of a Professional Fighting Man by Peter McAleese

The author volunteered for the SAS and saw action first amidst the arid mountains of Aden and then in the jungles of Borneo.  He also signed up as a mercenary.  His brutal and honest account of 25 years of almost constant battle is a revealing portrayal of the realities of modern warfare.  HC, 292pp, illus., pub. 1995, BCA, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $35.00

 

NO NEED FOR HEROES The Aussies Who Discovered the Viet Cong's Secret Tunnels by Sandy MacGregor

This is the thrilling, hilarious and inspiring true story of a ragtag band of Aussie Army Engineers who redefined the words heroes.  They discovered a huge Viet Cong tunnel complex and were the first allied troops to follow the enemy down into their underground city.  They were the original Tunnel Rats and this is their story.  SC, 272pp, illus., pub. 1993, CALM Pty., mint.  Price: $25.00

 

ONE MAN'S WAR IN KOREA By Lofty Large

The author tells the story of his career with the Infantry, of the fighting in Korea, and of his years in the POW camp, through the eyes of a trog (private soldier) with an unfaltering pride in the British army, though not always in its leaders.  HC, 175pp, illus., pub. 1988, William Kimber, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $36.00

 

ONE MORNING IN THE WAR The Tragedy at Son My By Richard Hammer

SC, 207pp, pub. 1970, Coward-McCann, good condition, corners knocked a bit, ex-library.  Price: $10.00

 

THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY By Chris Ryan

The SAS mission conducted behind Iraqi lines is one of the most famous stories of courage and survival in modern warfare.  Of the eight members of the SAS Regiment who set off, only one escaped capture.  This is his story.  SC, 241pp, illus. in colour, pub. 1995, Century, very good.  Price: $26.00  HC, pub. 1995, Century, very good.  Price: $35.00

 

THE PARATROOPERS OF THE FRENCH FOREIGN LEGION From Vietnam to Bosnia By Howard R. Simpson

Based on conversations with the men of the 2nd REP, the author's on-the-spot observations, and his encyclopedic knowledge of the military, this book is the first in-depth book available in English about this legendary band of airborne warriors.  HC, 162pp, illus., pub. 1997, Brassey's, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $25.00

 

PIG IN THE MIDDLE The Army in Northern Ireland 1969-1984 by Desmond Hamill

Based largely on their personal views, this is a story of confusion of aims and amazing ignorance of people and attitudes; of dogged determination, great courage, mistakes, many frustrations and a few triumphs.  It is the authentic voice of the soldier at the sharp end.  HC, 308pp, illus., pub. 1985, Book Club Assoc., London, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $36.00

 

THE PUSAN PERIMETER By Edwin P. Hoyt

The book recreates the first three nightmare months of the Korean conflict.  HC, 310pp, illus., pub. 1984, Military Heritage Press, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $20.00

 

RAGGED WAR The Story of Unconventional and Counter-Revolutionary Warfare By Leroy Thompson

The author, an expert, emphasises the importance of intelligence in these operations, reviews the weaponry used and analyzes the training of three elite special warfare units.  HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1994, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $36.00

 

THE RIGGER Operating with the SAS by Jack Williams

The Security Forces' campaign against Republican and Loyalist terrorism in Northern Ireland since 1969 has taken many forms.  The author, who served alongside the SAS and other covert military organizations, spares no detail in describing the dangers, tensions, dramas and humour of life at the sharp end.  Climbing 400-foot masts is not for the faint-hearted at the best of times but to do so in the bandit country of South Armagh is a whole new ballgame.  HC, 188pp, pub. 2001, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

A RUMOR OF WAR By Philip Caputo

On March 8, 1965 the author, a young infantry officer, landed at Danang with a battalion of 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, the first U.S. combat unit sent to Indochina.  This is his story.  HC, 346pp, pub. 1977, Holt, Rinehart, very good, no dust jacket.  Price: $12.00

 

SABOTAGE AND SUBVERSION Stories From the Files of the SOE and OSS by Ian Dear

In this book the author explains the structure, recruiting and training of each organisation before describing selected diverse actions they carried out.  These include acts of forgery, kidnapping, long-distance covert naval actions, raids on the German atomic plant and the critical work of saboteurs and double agents.  HC, 224pp, illus., pub. 1996, Arms and Armour, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

SABRE SQUADRON The Longest SAS Mission of the Gulf War, Six Weeks Behind Enemy Lines, For Some it Would be a Lifetime – By Cameron Spence

The Sabre Squadron slipped quietly over the border into the enemy’s backyard.  It would be six weeks before any of the patrol again reached safety.  This book will take you as close to the fighting as you will ever get.  It recounts in graphic detail their scud-busting operation behind enemy lines.  HC, 302pp, illus. in colour, pub. 1997, Michael Joseph, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $35.00

 

THE SAS IN ACTION  By Peter Macdonald

This book is about the modern SAS: its roles, its actions, its training, its enemies; and its pursuit of excellence.  It takes an in depth look at its punishing training regime.  It investigates the SAS role in the wider sphere of counter-terrorist operations.  HC, 192pp, vastly illus., some in colour, pub. 1990, Sidgwick & Jackson, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $35.00

           

SAS SECRET WAR By Major General Tony Jeapes, CB, OBE, MC

This book reveals how small teams of SAS men were sent to fight in Oman where guerrillas were waging a savage campaign.  General Jeapes commanded the first full SAS squadron in Dhofar, the Omani province where the revolution had taken hold.  HC, 251pp, illus., pub. 1996, Macmillan, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $35.00

 

SECRET ARMIES The Full Story of S.A.S. Delta Force and Spetsnaz By James Adams

Drawing on previously unpublished material, James Adams reveals the triumphs and disasters of these secret armies including a mission by Britain's SAS to put down a coup in the Gambia in 1981 and the debacle of the US invasion of Grenada in 1982.  HC, 440pp, illus., pub. 1988, Guild, London, very good in dust jacket.  Price:  $32.00

 

THE SECRET WAR-Dhofar 1971/1972 By David C. Arkless

In his very readable recollections of the war, the author recounts his sorties flying into extreme danger and encountering the enemy, and also the day to day difficulties of living in the desert.  HC, 246pp, illus., pub. 1988, William Kimber, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $38.00

 

SIX CAMPAIGNS National Servicemen at War 1948-1960 By Adrian Walker

British armed forces were involved during these years in six campaigns: Malaya, Korea, Cyprus, Suez and South Arabia.  Includes reminiscences of 23 of these men. HC, 169pp, pub. 1993, Leo cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $35.00

 

A SNIPER IN THE ARIZONA 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines in the Arizona Territory, 1967 – The Heroes of Operation Tuscaloosa Flight from the Song Thu Bon to Nong Son Mountain by John J. Culbertson

In this heart-pounding book, the author traces H Company’s evolution from green Marines to battle-hardened killers.  HC, 269pp, illus., pub. 1999, Ivy Books, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $25.00

 

A SOLDIER'S POCKET BOOK

The British Army Review assessed this book as a valuable and memoir that all should consider keeping.  It also incorporates the Volunteers Pocket Book and Skill At Arms and Shooting.  SC, 380pp, illus., pub. 1988, Military Pocket Books, mint.  Price: $20.00

 

SOMEBODY ELSE'S WAR Frontline Reports From the Balkan Wars By Paul Harris

The author reported on and photographed the conflicts in the Balkan Republics of Slovenia.  It is from the front line; from the children's hospitals; from refugee columns under fire; and even, from the mortuaries in Christmas week.  SC, 164pp, illus., pub. 1992, mint.  Price: $25.00

 

THE SOVIET ARMY 1918 to the Present By Albert Seaton and Joan Seaton

In this book the authors give a precise, detailed and highly authoritative account of the Soviet ground forces, their political and military organisation, training, tactics and weaponry.  HC, 292pp, illus., pub. 1986, Bodley Head, mint.  Price: $32.00

 

SOVIET MILITARY POWER An Assessment of the Threat 1988

Since 1981 the Secretary of Defense has published an assessment of the Soviet Union's military strength.  This is for the year 1988.  SC, 175pp, illus., 11 x 8 1/2", pub. 1988, U.S. Government, good.  Price: $5.00

 

STOLEN VALOR How The Vietnam Generation Was Robbed of its Heroes and its History by B. G. Burkett and Glenna Whitley

This is a tough and courageous book and is a powerful expose of cowardly phonies and an inept Veterans Administration.  HC, 692pp, illus., pub. 1998, Verity Press, mint in dust jacket.  Price:  $35.00

 

STORM COMMAND A Personal Account of the Gulf War by General Sir Peter De La Billiere

The author commanded the British Armed Forces component in Desert Shield/Storm in 1991.  HC, 348pp, illus., pub. 1992, Harper Collins, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $40.00

 

SUEZ THE DOUBLE WAR By Roy Fullick and Geoffrey Powell

The authors of this fascinating book describe in detail the events from July 26, 1956 to the end of that year and explain why lack of success was almost inevitable.  SC, 230pp, illus., pub. 1979, Leo Cooper, mint.  Price: $10.00

 

TASK FORCE The Illustrated History of the Falklands War by David Reynolds

Opening with a concise history of the conflict and the build-up to the departure of the Task Force, each step of the action is chronologically recounted in gripping battle accounts.  Using maps of the exact positions and dates of the landings, the author includes every detail from the early stages of war through to the final victory by British forces at Port Stanley.  HC, 273pp, illus. (over 150 action photographs), some in colour, pub. 2002, Sutton, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $38.00

 

THIN BLUE LINES By Artists

A light-hearted look at Peace, Human Rights, the Environment and Poverty to mark the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations.  SC, 80pp, illus., pub. 1995, Leo Cooper, mint.  Price: $10.00

 

THIRTEEN DAYS A Memoir of the Cuban Missile Crisis by Robert F. Kennedy

This book is remarkable not only for its inside story of the first great crisis of the atomic era but also for its moving revelation of the relationship of two men.  HC, 224pp, illus., pub. 1969, 1st Edition, W. W. Norton, very good in torn dust jacket.  Price: $10.00

 

THROUGH THE WIRE Action with the SAS in Borneo and the Special Forces in Vietnam by David Savage

This book details the satisfactions and frustrations of an Australian on operational service in Vietnam, operating under the command of the U.S. Special Forces, commanding Australian and American soldiers and working with the lightly equipped Montagnards.  SC, 239pp, illus., pub. 1999, Allen and Unwin, mint (Limited quantities).  Price: $30.00

 

2 PARA FALKLANDS The Battalion at War by Maj-Gen John Frost

2 Para fought in all the major battles of the Falklands War: this is their story.  SC, (paperback), 192pp, illus., pub. 1987, Sphere, very good.  Price: $8.00

 

URGENT FURY The Battle for Grenada By Mark Adkin

The truth behind  the largest U.S. military operation since Vietnam.  HC, 391pp, illus., pub. 1989, Leo Cooper, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

VIETNAM-A HISTORY The First Complete Account of Vietnam at War by Stanley Karnow

The bestselling companion to the PBS Series.  SC, 752pp, illus., pub. 1983, Penguin Books, fair.  Price: $5.00

 

VIETNAM-Conflict and Controversy By Paul Elliott

The truth behind the controversial conflict.  Includes: Lack of preparedness for 'modern' war, inexperience in guerilla warfare, the Tonkin Affair, the failures of "Rolling Thunder", inadequate airborne power, Agent Orange, the MIA debate - to name just a few.  HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1996, Arms and Armour, mint in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

THE VIETNAM EXPERIENCE

A word and picture account of how and why we fought in Vietnam.  Each book presents a particular aspect of the war.  A Time-Life publication, 9 1/4 x 11 3/4".

Setting the Stage By Edward Doyle, Samuel Lipsman & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1981, very good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

A Contagion of War 1965-1967 by Terrence Maitland, Peter McInerney & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1983, good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

Passing the Torch by Edward Doyle, Samuel Lipsman, Stephen Weiss & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 208pp, illus., pub. 1981, very good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

Raising the Stakes by Terrence Maitland, Stephen Weiss & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1982, very good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

Fighting for Time 1969-1970 By Samuel Lipsman, Edward Doyle & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1983, very good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

A Nation Divided by Clark Dougan, Samuel Lipsman & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 192pp, illus., pub. 1984, very good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

The Fall of the South By Clark Dougan, David Fulghum & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 191pp, illus., pub. 1985, very good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

The False Peace 1972-1974 by Samuel Lipsman, Stephen Weiss & Editors of Boston Pub. Co., HC, 191pp, illus., pub. 1985, good, corners knocked.  Price: $5.00

 

WAR IN THE GULF A Pictorial History (The Sunday Times) By John Witherow and Aidan Sullivan

An illustrated history of the Gulf War.  SC, 192pp, pub. 1991, St. Martin's Press, very good.  Price: $16.00

 

WEAPONS OF THE FALKLANDS CONFLICT By Bryan Perrett

This book describes the ships, aircraft, missiles and other weapons used during the battle, tells how they were employed, and assesses the various lessons arising from the conflict.  SC, 152pp, illus., pub. 1982, Blandford, mint.  Price: $20.00

 

WHEN THE FIGHTING IS OVER A Personal Story of the Battle for Tumbledown Mountain and its Aftermath by John Lawrence and Robert Lawrence MC

This is Robert Lawrence's story - how he strove to gain a place in the highly respected Scots Guards, his role in the Falklands War and his personal battle to overcome his injuries.  HC, 196pp, illus., pub. 1988, Bloomsbury, very good in dust jacket.  Price: $30.00

 

WHERE THE DOMINO FELL America and Vietnam 1945-1990 By James S. Olson and Randy Roberts

A well documented critique of the U.S. policy in Vietnam.  From the U.S. involvement in Indochina during the Truman administration down to the final withdrawal in the mid 1970s, the authors have provided an in-depth analysis of how and why the United States became involved in Vietnam.  SC, 321pp, illus., pub. 1991, St. Martin's Press, very good, some pages have yellow highlights.  Price:  $10.00

 

WITH THE AUSTRALIANS IN KOREA By Norman Bartlett

A short official history of the Korean War from 1950 to 1953.  The last 129 pages include participants' personal stories of the war.  HC, 294pp, illus., 6 maps, pub. 1960, Australian War Memorial, very good, no dust jacket.  Price: $40.00