US Army Airborne 1940-90

The first 50 years of the US Army airborne arm is a story of continuing battles with the nation's enemies, of battles within the Army's hierarchy, of change, and of adaptation. This comprehensive, illustrated volume tracks this history, highlighting the airborne soldier's uncanny ability to adapt and be flexible over the years. Focusing on the motivation and ésprit de corps this attitude fostered within these units, this is an engaging survey of how the airborne army changed in the years between 1940 and 1990. The first class pairing of Gordon L. Rottman and Ron Volstad bring to life the history of these remarkable troops.

Gordon L. Rottman entered the US Army in 1967, volunteered for Special Forces and completed training as a weapons specialist. He served in the 5th Special Forces Group in Vietnam in 1969-70 and subsequently in airborne infantry, long-range patrol and intelligence assignments before retiring after 26 years. He was a Special Operations Forces scenario writer at the Joint Readiness Training Center for 12 years and is now a freelance writer, living in Texas.

Introduction The Early Days World War II Post-war and Korea The 'Pentomic' Era The ROAD to Vietnam Army of Excellence The Plates